The Gulf Organization for Research & Development (GORD), the Global Carbon Council (GCC), and the Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) of Ras Al Khaimah have signed a strategic partnership to advance climate action, strengthen carbon markets, and support sustainable urban development across the region.

The tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Dr. Yousef M. Alhorr, founding chairman of GORD and GCC, and Dr. Mohammed bin Yousif Al Madfaei, director general of EPDA.

The agreement brings together three complementary areas of expertise: GORD’s research and sustainability advisory capabilities, GCC’s internationally recognized carbon crediting framework, and EPDA’s regulatory role in environmental protection and conservation within Ras Al Khaimah.

The partnership comes as governments and businesses across the Gulf step up efforts to meet climate targets while exploring new financing mechanisms for decarbonization. A key focus of the collaboration will be the development of climate action initiatives and carbon asset programs, including greenhouse gas emissions inventories, third-party verification systems, and carbon neutrality frameworks.

The organizations will also work to strengthen regional capacity for Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which enables countries and organizations to trade carbon credits and collaborate on emissions-reduction projects. The initiative is expected to help public and private sector entities navigate the rapidly evolving global carbon market.

“True decarbonization demands more than localized emission reduction targets,” said Dr. Alhorr. “It requires rigorous asset registries, robust greenhouse gas verification protocols, and structured frameworks aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Through this partnership, we are creating a model that connects environmental governance with global market integrity while advancing sustainable urban planning and nature-based solutions.”

Beyond carbon finance, the collaboration will focus on creating technical guidelines and best practices for sustainable buildings, climate-resilient infrastructure, and master-planned urban developments. The partners will also launch professional training programs, technical workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to build climate expertise across the region.

Dr. Al Madfaei said the partnership aligns with EPDA’s vision of strengthening environmental protection and resource sustainability for future generations. He added that the technical and market expertise provided by GORD and GCC would support the emirate’s climate ambitions while introducing globally recognized standards to local initiatives.

The agreement also includes plans for joint research, environmental studies, and industry events. By combining scientific expertise, regulatory oversight, and carbon market infrastructure, the three organizations aim to create a stronger foundation for climate resilience and sustainable growth in the region.