Doha, November 24 (QNA) - Qatar Chamber hosted on Monday the activities of the 2nd Conference on Environmental, Social, and Institutional Governance (ESG) Qatar 2025.
The event is organised by Hawkama Center for Public Relations in cooperation with the Institute for Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) in England, and with the Qatar Chamber as a strategic partner.
The two-day conference witnessed wide participation from numerous experts representing international institutions.
In his remarks, President of the Conference, HE Sheikh Dr. Thani bin Ali bin Saud Al-Thani affirmed that ESG has become a major driver of business worldwide. He stressed that companies seeking to strengthen their competitiveness in global markets and attract foreign direct investment must adhere to the highest international standards, with ESG now forming an integral component of these standards.
He noted that the State of Qatar holds a leading position in adopting ESG frameworks, guided by a proactive vision that places sustainability at the core of its national priorities. He explained that ESG standards serve as a fundamental pillar for building sustainable sectors such as tourism, financial services, and technology.
HE Sheikh Dr. Thani emphasised that ESG has evolved into a strategic tool for managing risks, generating growth opportunities, enhancing reputation, and attracting capital and talent. He warned that companies neglecting these standards risk falling behind in an increasingly dynamic and rapidly changing global economy.
On his part, Qatar Chamber Acting General Manager, Ali Bu Sherbak Al Mansori stated that the conference plays a key role in raising awareness about the implementation of ESG standards across economic sectors. He noted that the event
provides an important platform for showcasing best practices in governance, reporting, financial integration, and innovative approaches to sustainability.
He highlighted that the Chamber firmly believes in the importance of applying ESG standards, as they constitute a key pillar in the future of business in Qatar. He added that the Chamber has organised numerous events and training programs focused on governance and sustainability. It also continues to promote the concepts of social responsibility among companies and encourage business owners and the private sector to adopt governance and sustainability standards.
In turn, Corporate Partnerships Manager at ISEP-UK, Alan Darby said that Qatar plays a leading role in integrating ESG standards, noting that ISEP cooperates with various Qatari entities and companies to implement best practices in this field.
He also affirmed that the risks associated with climate change will have direct impacts on the economy, businesses, and supply chains. He noted that while these challenges pose significant risks, they also open the door to new economic opportunities, with the private sector expected to play a key role in addressing and leveraging them.
For his part, Eng. Abdulwahab Bukshaisha from the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) said that Ashghal works to integrate ESG standards across all stages of its projects, placing community safety and quality of life at the top of its priorities.
He noted that the Authority is committed to developing facilities and urban infrastructure that enhance security and safety while promoting best practices. He stressed Ashghal's commitment to working with a spirit of innovation to support the future of the State and reinforce the principles of sustainability.
The conference included working sessions that addressed several topics, including environmental, social and institutional regulation and compliance, the role of rating agencies in measuring ESG standards, and trends of Qatari companies in disclosing ESG standards. The second day includes training sessions on report writing guides, and workshops on effective strategies and standards for preparing environmental, social and governance reports. (QNA)