UK - Brunei Green Economy Framework
Introduction
The UK - Brunei Green Economy Framework Report, published in April 2024, highlights the strategic partnership between the UK and Brunei Darussalam in addressing the global shift towards sustainability. This collaborative effort aims to support Brunei's economic diversification and transition to a green economy, aligning with the country's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Key Stakeholders
The project was commissioned by the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) with support from Arup, a consultancy firm known for its expertise in designing and implementing sustainable solutions. The FCDO plays a pivotal role in leading the UK's diplomatic, development, and consular activities worldwide, focusing on global challenges such as poverty alleviation and climate change. Arup collaborates with various sectors including public, private, and academic entities to shape strategies that promote sustainable development.
Acknowledgements
The report acknowledges the significant contributions from stakeholders across different sectors:
- Public Sector: Ministry of Finance and Economy, Brunei Climate Change Secretariat, Department of Energy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Forestry Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Transport Policy Division, Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, Brunei Economic Development Board, Manpower Planning Employment Council.
- Private Sector: Companies such as Brunei Shell Petroleum, Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd, Brunei Fertilizer Industries, Brunei Methanol Company, Hengyi Industries Sdn Bhd, Polygel Organometallic (Brunei) Sdn Bhd, and Brunei Darussalam Central Bank.
- Academia: Universities including Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Universiti Teknologi Brunei, and the Institute of Brunei Technical Education.
Main Focus Areas
The report emphasizes several key areas:
- Case for Change: Navigating the shift towards a green economy amidst global challenges, particularly the transition away from fossil fuels.
- Green Opportunities: Identifying potential sectors for growth that align with Brunei's net-zero commitment, such as renewable energy, carbon capture storage, clean hydrogen export, and waste recycling.
- Key Enablers: Strategies including policy reforms, funding mechanisms, partnerships, infrastructure development, and capacity building to facilitate the transition.
- Economic Impact: Projected benefits to Brunei's economy, including job creation, technological advancement, and improved environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
The UK - Brunei Green Economy Framework represents a comprehensive approach to fostering economic growth while mitigating environmental impacts. By integrating sustainability into core economic policies, Brunei aims to achieve prosperity and resilience against global economic shifts. This partnership underscores the importance of collaboration between nations in addressing shared environmental challenges and promotes a pathway for other countries to follow in transitioning to a sustainable economy.
