Insights The role of technology in decarbonisation in the Middle East

What is decarbonisation?

Decarbonisation is about reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide emissions (CO2). In 2015, 196 parties signed the Paris Agreement, an international treaty on climate change. Since the Agreement, these parties have been striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to reach the goals of the treaty. 

At the AtkinsRéalis Group, including Atkins and Faithful+Gould, we consider it our mission to lead the engineering industry in achieving Net Zero as rapidly as possible. Our expertise, commitment and global experience mean we are uniquely placed to address the challenges ahead and identify opportunities in pursuit of a carbon-free economy. 

Explore why decarbonisation is important, the biggest challenges around it, and the key technologies being used in the Middle East: 

Why is decarbonisation important? 

As the climate crisis becomes more of a pressing issue, decarbonisation plays a crucial role in combating this global challenge. 

The four pillars of decarbonisation are energy efficiency, low carbon energy, fuel switch and non-energy emissions. By taking immediate action and finding solutions based on these four pillars, we will be able to create a sustainable and climate-resilient future for ourselves and future generations. 

What are the biggest challenges to decarbonisation? 

Decarbonisation is a complex process that faces several challenges such as the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, economic costs, political barriers, global cooperation, and existing infrastructure. 

Whilst change isn’t going to happen overnight, we require innovative solutions and cutting-edge technologies to drive change and move towards a Net-Zero world. This is what drives us to find new and better ways of doing things, and to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing our industry – and the wider world – head-on. And technology is integral to our ability to do this. 

What are the key technologies for decarbonisation in the Middle East? 

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) 

CCS technology captures carbon emissions from industrial processes and power plants and stores them in geological formations underground. This prevents them from entering the atmosphere and is crucial for mitigating emissions from hard-to-abate sectors such as aviation, shipping, and agriculture. 

Renewable energy sources 

The Middle East has an abundance of solar resources so technologies such as solar photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies offer a promising solution to addressing carbon dioxide emissions. 

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology converts sunlight into electricity, making it a great clean energy source. Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) is a technology that uses mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight onto a small area to generate high temperatures and produce electricity through a steam turbine. 

Circular economy 

Adopting circular economy principles can help reduce waste generation and promote recycling and reusing materials, thereby reducing emissions from waste management. The benefits of a circular economy include reduced demand for natural materials, reduced urban sprawl, and protecting biodiversity and the environment. 

At the AtkinsRéalis Group, including Atkins and Faithful+Gould, we are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service. We’re using emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence which allow us to monitor the health of our client's assets and anticipate future challenges. All of our teams from Cities and Development to Water, have access to the latest technologies so they have the freedom to innovate. 

Are you passionate about creating positive change? 

If the answer is yes, we may have a spot for you in the Middle East. You’ll get the chance to work on megaprojects such as NEOM, whilst driving positive change and contributing to a sustainable future. 

Are you interested in seeing what opportunities are available for you to join us and make a difference? View our live vacancies in the Middle East today.