Greenpeace MENA and Tawazoun Conclude the “Wellbeing Economy Dialogue” with a Collaborative Vision for a Balanced and Sustainable Economy.

Dubai, 2 December, 2024: Greenpeace MENA and Tawazoun hosted the “Wellbeing Economy Dialogue.” This gathering marked the start of an essential conversation on redefining prosperity, focusing on sustainable, inclusive economic practices that prioritize people and the planet over excess. 

The event brought together United Arab Emirates (UAE) stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including government representatives, sustainability experts, civil society, and academia, to shape a shared vision of holistic well-being and sustainability. The discussion underscored the inadequacies of conventional economic measures such as GDP in capturing planetary and human wellbeing. It also addressed the limitations of luxury as a well-being indicator, emphasizing the need for balance and sustainability as critical components of a thriving economy.

Through a dynamic and inclusive approach, participants engaged in meaningful discussions, setting the foundations for a collaborative roadmap for a balanced and sustainable wellbeing economy in the UAE.

Dr. Hanen Keskes, Campaigns Lead at Greenpeace MENA, shed light on the limitations of GDP as a metric of growth, highlighting its detrimental impact on social well-being, environmental health, and equitable resource distribution.

Keskes said: “The GDP’s fixation on endless economic expansion often overlooks critical issues such as the depletion of natural resources and the degradation of ecosystems. This model of growth, which prioritizes consumption and profit over sustainability, contributes significantly to climate change.”

She added: “We must reshape the narrative by focusing on hope and elevating the sustainable grassroots solutions that our communities have practiced for years, rooted in our traditions and culture.”

Dr. Hanane Benkhallouk, Founder of Tawazoun, emphasized the critical role of partnerships in advancing the dialogue and building a new framework for prosperity. She said: “We are proud to collaborate with Greenpeace MENA on this transformative initiative. The Wellbeing Economy Dialogue has highlighted the urgent need to redefine prosperity and move toward alternative indicators that reflect true well-being. This roadmap not only underscores the importance of sustainability but also centers the human experience by prioritizing balanced and inclusive growth for all.”

 

The partnership between Greenpeace MENA and Tawazoun aims to showcase the power of collective action in addressing global challenges. By fostering cross-sector collaboration, the dialogue demonstrated the importance of aligning economic practices with environmental stewardship, social equity, and long-term sustainability.

Both organizations remain committed to driving forward the outcomes of the “Wellbeing Economy Dialogue,” ensuring that the momentum generated continues to inspire action and systemic change.

About Greenpeace MENA:

Greenpeace Middle East and North Africa is an independent environmental organization founded in 2018 to protect the environment and address the effects of climate change in the region, with the aim of providing safer and healthier lives for local communities. The Middle East and North Africa region is our home and we work according to a creative, collaborative approach to reduce the environmental, economic and social impacts resulting from the global climate crisis. We encourage finding innovative solutions within a local framework to enable our communities to flourish and live in harmony with the environment that embraces them. We look forward to working with associations, local organizations and makers. The decision, supporters, media, and all those interested in serving our region and preserving and protecting its environment.

About Tawazoun

Launched at Expo 2020 Dubai, Tawazoun is an initiative powered by Sustain Leadership which aims at fostering balance across people, workplaces, societies, and the planet. Believing in a holistic approach to well-being, Tawazoun integrates grassroots action with forward-thinking strategies to address global challenges.

Through innovative programs and partnerships, Tawazoun offers tangible solutions to pressing issues. Its initiatives include capacity-building workshops, community-based projects, and tailored sustainability strategies for organizations. Its initiatives focus on youth empowerment, community development, and environmental sustainability, blending traditional wisdom with modern practices to create actionable solutions.

Grounded in advocacy, education, and execution, Tawazoun provides practical tools and frameworks to embed well-being and sustainability into daily practices, while fostering meaningful collaborations that drive long-term impact. By redefining well-being as a shared responsibility, Tawazoun inspires changemakers and lays the groundwork for a balanced, sustainable future.

For more information about this press release, you can contact us on:

Greenpeace MENA

Hiam Mardini – Greenpeace MENA communications and Media Manager

hmardini@greenpeace.org

Tawazoun

Dr. Hanane Benkhallouk-Founder of Tawazoun

Hanane@tawazoun.com