Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt and UK strengthen green partnership to accelerate sustainable growth
In downtown Cairo, an important conversation about the future of the planet unfolded.
Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Egypt’s Minister of Environment, welcomed Gareth Bayley, the British Ambassador to Cairo, to discuss new opportunities for green collaboration between their nations.
The meeting, attended by key environmental advisors and British Embassy officials, set the stage for innovative solutions to address climate change and accelerate Egypt’s transition to a green economy.
For Dr. Fouad, who was recently congratulated for her new appointment as Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, sustainability is a mission deeply rooted in Egypt’s national strategy. “Egypt is committed to multilateral environmental action,” she affirmed, highlighting how the country is integrating the aims of three major UN conventions—climate, biodiversity, and desertification—into a new vision for just and inclusive green growth.
Leading with transparency, ambitious climate goals
Egypt’s efforts are not limited to dialogue. Just last December, the country delivered its first transparency report to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The report, covering the nation’s climate actions up to 2022, sent a powerful message to the world about Egypt’s progress in renewable energy, transport, and resource management.
The British Ambassador expressed keen interest in Egypt’s growing role as a climate leader, inviting them to join the global Green Growth campaign and the Green Energy Alliance.
“We are eager for Egypt to share its success stories and promising opportunities for environmental and climate investment,” he said, pointing to shared ambitions around investments, job creation, and economic growth through sustainable energy.
Eco-tourism: A jewel in Egypt’s sustainability crown
One bright spot in Egypt’s strategy is eco-tourism. Home to the iconic Red Sea reefs and vast natural reserves, Egypt recognizes that protecting these treasures is not only about conservation—it’s also smart economic policy. Tourists increasingly seek experiences that let them enjoy nature responsibly, and Egypt is rising to meet that demand.
Dr. Fouad explained how cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and private sector partners—who make up 98% of the industry—has set rigorous environmental standards for eco-lodges and sustainable tourism, even during the challenging COVID-19 period. The strategy includes protecting coastal zones, investing in protected areas, and promoting alternative livelihoods for local divers and fishermen who now serve as guardians of Egypt’s unique ecosystems.
The ambitious goal? To declare Egypt’s entire Red Sea coastline a protected area—expanding conservation coverage to 22% of the country and bringing Egypt closer to the global target of safeguarding 30% of land and sea for nature.
Green energy and circular solutions
The collaboration also focuses on cleaner industry and waste management. Egypt’s cement factories, for example, have boosted their use of alternative fuels—derived from local waste—to reduce reliance on imported coal and cut emissions. Regulations now require a significant portion of fuel to come from waste, a major step toward a circular economy and a healthier environment.
Ambassador Bayley reaffirmed Britain’s support, including through the £500 million Blue Planet Fund, which will aid nature protection, green investment, and sustainable development around the Red Sea—one of the world’s most dazzling marine environments.
A commitment to global environmental leadership
“Despite many challenges at home and abroad, Egypt remains steadfast in its environmental commitments,” Dr. Fouad emphasized, citing efforts to tackle single-use plastic and help shape a new global plastics treaty. With support from international partners like the UK, Egypt is determined to drive green growth, foster innovation, and provide hope for a sustainable future.
The meeting in Cairo sent a clear message: That bold action, creative partnerships, and a shared vision can deliver profound change for people and the planet.