Special Supplement Wednesday, June 30, 2021 Special Supplement 2 Wednesday, June 30, 2021 MADE IN QFZA to host Qatar’s first laptop manufacturing facility atar Free Zones Authority (QFZA) announced the The factory, the first of its kind in establishment of a state-of-the-art production facility Qin Umm Alhoul Free Zone, built by a partnership Qatar, will create 160 new jobs, between iLife Digital, a leading intelligent robotics and electronics company based in Florida, US, and Prime including 144 skilled opportunities, Technologies, a subsidiary of Ali Bin Ali Holding. and customers across the MENA iLife and Prime Technologies will use the 2,500 sqm factory to create innovative iLife-branded electronic devices, region will benefit from a local including laptops, PCs, smart watches and mobile phones, technology powerhouse among others. The new space will help meet the growing demand for affordable electronic projects in the MENA region, and is the latest of many partnerships QFZs have testament to the strategic place of Qatar and its free zones orchestrated with the private sector. in global trade, and the exciting potential of technology manufacturing in Qatar. This factory will play an important role in our growing technology ecosystem and drive our continued support for Qatar’s technology and innovation sector.” Speaking about the new venture, Vice-Chairman & EVP of Ali Bin Ali Holding Mr. Nabeel Ali Bin Ali said: “Our Group has always been known for pioneering efforts and supporting innovations to get the best for the people of Qatar. The new facility, with its state-of-the-art production and R&D facility along with a logistics and customer solutions center, is a reiteration of such efforts. The project also reflects our support for Qatar’s 2030 vision of self-reliance and contributes to the ‘Made in Qatar’ initiative. It is a perfect platform for young Qatari scientists to research, innovate and develop AI tools and robots. We are happy to be a part of the Qatar Free Zones and this strategic partnership will help us make Qatar more prominent on the global trade map.” The partnership between iLife Digital and Prime Production at the factory is expected to begin in August This new venture will bring additional benefits to Qatar. Technologies will support Qatar’s National Vision 2030 aimed at 2021 and will produce up to 350,000 electronics a year. In The factory, the first of its kind in Qatar, will create 160 new creating a knowledge-based economy and promoting economic addition to the production of electronics, the factory will jobs, including 144 skilled opportunities, and customers diversification. It will expand the skilled labor pool of Qatar, support logistics and R&D activities and feature a customer across the MENA region will benefit from a local technology support the development of its logistical infrastructure and bring solution center. powerhouse. Qatar Free Zones’ technology ecosystem will added value to the Qatari economy. H.E. Ahmad Al-Sayed, Minister of State and Chairman of allow iLife Digital and Prime Technologies to enhance their Qatar is in the midst of rapid digital growth across all QFZA, said, “We are proud to host this partnership between own operations and develop cutting-edge yet affordable industries, including as part of preparations for the FIFA World iLife Digital and Prime Technologies at Umm Alhoul Free products for the MENA region. The strategic location of Umm Cup 2022 – the world’s biggest global sporting event. These Zone. It is the latest example of our close collaboration with Alhoul Free Zone will facilitate the trade integration of these new partnerships in the technology industry foster an attractive the Qatari private sector to foster growth and innovation for products across the MENA region, and offer consumers a market for foreign corporations, SMEs and start-ups geared the country and the broader region. This partnership is also valuable local alternative to products made further afield. towards innovation solutions.

Kahramaa installs fastest electric car charger in Qatar at Katara n “Kahramaa has set up several pilot stations to identify the best New charging station is 19th to be installed quality and evaluate the most suitable for Qatar. Nineteen stations have This station comes within the n been installed and these represent an effective model for guidance in It can fully charge a car in less than 10 minutes all sectors of the State. These include the Kahramaa building station in first phase of completing the n Mesaieed - a solar station model. Moreover, there are two stations to electric vehicle charging network Kahramaa working to complete installation and charge electric buses at the Mowasalat building, one for fast charging operation of eight new stations and the other for night charging, as models for different bus stations. infrastructure and joins other stations Kahramaa is continuously working to complete the installation and atar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa), operation of eight new stations in collaboration with other institutions at several vital locations across Qatar through the National Programme for Conservation & Energy in Qatar, such as the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC), Efficiency (Tarsheed) has unveiled the 19th charging station for Qatar Foundation and Qatar Museums,” al-Kuwari explained. Q and public places in Qatar, in co-operation with the Public Works electric vehicles, located at Katara - the Cultural Village, Qatar News Kahramaa is also about to award a general tender for the installation Agency reports. Authority (Ashghal), to support the country’s march towards achieving and operation of 100 electric charging stations around Qatar. The sustainability and economic and environmental balance for infrastructure It is also the fastest such charger in Qatar, the corporation said in a charging stations will be installed at vital locations such as intersections, projects, Kahramaa has stressed in a statement. press statement recently. shopping malls, government buildings, hotels and Metro station About 20% of the stations will be implemented with renewable and parking lots during 2021. The stations’ capacities will vary according to “We are glad for this co-operation between Kahramaa and Katara. clean energy systems. This is the 19th station we have installed, which is the fastest charger for the location. Kahramaa, through Tarsheed, seeks to provide a healthy and safe electric vehicles in the State of Qatar with a capacity of 180KW and with a This tender comes as part of the joint working plan between the environment for the coming generations in line with Qatar National Vision direct current system that has the ability to fully charge a car in less than MoTC and Kahramaa to establish an integrated network of stations, in 2030, by promoting sustainability and reducing carbon emissions to 10 minutes,” Kahramaa president Essa bin Hilal al-Kuwari said. co-ordination with different authorities in Qatar such as the Ministry of achieve its commitment to the National Strategy 2018-2022 in reducing Municipality and Environment, General Directorate of Traffic and others. This station comes within the first phase of completing the electric 1mn tonnes of carbon emissions in Qatar annually, the statement adds. vehicle charging network infrastructure and joins other stations at several Other stations will be available for electric charging in serving and vital locations across Qatar, he noted. vital areas such as the project involving the beautification of roads Special Supplement MADE IN QATAR Wednesday, June 30, 2021 3

COASTAL QATAR A BEACON OF QATAR’S SELF-SUFFICIENCY

Nishad Azeem, CEO of Coastal Qatar “At Coastal Qatar, we have always been about constantly taking on engineering challenges and pushing the boundaries of innovation. What began in the 70’s, soon established itself as a brand that is synonymous with successful integration capabilities – both forward and backward, and an expertise that allows for holistic delivery and partnership”

Inauguration of Coastal seat manufacturing facility

ince its inception in 1979, Coastal Qatar, a Qatari company, has been playing a pivotal role in local manufacturing in line with SQatar National Vision 2030. With an impeccable track record of delivering quality projects on schedule, Coastal Qatar has left their imprint on all the landmark projects in Qatar like the Hamad Planters at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium International Airport, Qatar National Museum, FIFA Stadiums etc. The objective of this project is to provide a unique platform and With the agility to pivot in line with market demands and through medium of expression for the local artists to showcase their creativity technology partnership with leading international experts and and talent that could be utilized in public spaces, parks, stadiums, overseas manufacturers, Coastal Qatar currently has several “Made- hotels, offices, mosques etc. and at the same time provide exposure to in-Qatar” initiatives under its belt; stadium seating, lighting poles- a global audience and revenue streams. including high mast and smart light poles, road safety barriers, slotted channels, toilet cubicles, lockers, street directional signage, traffic Qatar Al Fann Exhibition was attended by dignitaries from Katara gantries, street furniture, etc. are some of the products the company Hospitality, Qatari Diar, Public Works Authority, Fire Station Artist in manufactures locally in Qatar. Residence, as well as high-ranking officials from government agencies, ambassadors and members of the art community. Being a manufacturing and construction company, Coastal Qatar Qatar Al Fann Exhibition at Fire Station is structured with divisions that synergizes among each other. The Qatar Al Fann focuses to unveil the potential of local artists, exhibiting company’s main operations include manufacturing, steel fabrication, Coastal Qatar takes pride in maintaining a fundamental baseline and utilizing their exquisite creations in public spaces as part of Doha hot dip galvanizing, construction, trading, project support and logistics. quality that is best in class. Their products are capable of competing Beautification Project. This unique competitive advantage allows Coastal Qatar to carry out with the best products across the globe. The company has started As a testament to the exquisite design and quality of local the majority of the works in-house which ensure schedule and quality manufacturing of street furniture products like benches, bollards, manufacturing, products designed by local artists under the Qatar compliance. decorative lighting poles, litter bins, planters, etc. mainly using Ultra Al Fann initiative were incorporated at Ahmad Bin Ali – High Performance Concrete (UHPC). UHPC is one of the latest Stadium, showcasing the motifs of traditional Qatari houses design A key player in local manufacturing advances in concrete technology and addresses the shortcomings in the planters at the VIP entrance and the carpet in the Emiri Majlis, of ordinary concrete in addition to providing flexibility for innovative in addition to other artifacts like wall paintings and carpets that As the build-up towards hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022 continues, designs. are inspired by pearl diving, the floral print of traditional Qatari Coastal Qatar has successfully completed the production of over women attire, etc. The artists are hopeful that similar opportunities 300,000 spectator seats for six of the World Cup venues: Al Bayt to showcase the Art and Heritage of Qatar to the global audience Stadium, , Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Education from FIFA 2022 would be made available to them by the government City Stadium, Lusail Stadium, and . As of agencies. now, thanks to its diligent planning and execution, Coastal Qatar has completed the installation and handed over the seats for five out of “The alluring collection in Qatar Al Fann, judiciously selected through six venues on schedule despite the challenges posed by the unfair a design contest, craves an intimate abode in the viewers’ minds. This blockade and Covid 19. project, exclusively made in Qatar, shall splendidly flaunt the country’s art and its glorious heritage with the global audience. The international The firm’s efforts towards Qatar FIFA 2022 are seen as a success exposure and revenue rewards Qatar Al Fann extends to the artists story in local manufacturing for several products which are not limited is fascinating and truly deserving. We are immensely proud that our to the stadium spectator seats. Coastal Qatar also produced and vision to unveil their captivating potential finally bears fruit. We hold installed more than 2,000 toilet cubicles in addition to the lockers intense gratitude to all the champions of this gratifying project”, and expansion joints covers at several World Cup venues. Coastal Nishad Azeem, CEO of Coastal Qatar, said. Qatar also played an important role in the redevelopment of the first tournament-ready venue, Khalifa International Stadium, including its Coastal’s next focus area is on exporting the Made in Qatar products fabrication, supply and delivery of secondary structural steel works worldwide. Coastal Qatar has sufficient manufacturing capacity and cladding in addition to the VIP seats in the stadium. and the high quality standards of their products will ensure that the Street Furniture design based on Qatar art and heritage products are capable of meeting the international market demands In line with the company’s objectives of transferring innovative and compete with the international brands globally. manufacturing technologies to Qatar, Coastal Qatar has set up a new venture to start production of heavy-duty temporary raised flooring at Coastal’ s injection molding factory. CULTURAL To maximize the exposure of the local heritage and artists, Coastal Qatar has created opportunities for fans and visitors to interact with art rather than the art being confined within the walls of art galleries and museums. With this objective, Coastal Qatar has initiated an endeavor that seldom finds parallels in the region. A project that envisions illuminating the history, the culture and the heritage of Qatar to the world; “Qatar Al Fann”, under the patronage of Qatar Museum and Fire Station in collaboration with Ashghal, Katara Hospitality and Qatari Diar. Lamp Poles manufacturing facility

High Mast and Traffic Signal Gantry Spectator seats at Special Supplement 4 Wednesday, June 30, 2021 MADE IN QATAR Lulu Group: an ardent promoter of

“Madehe story of a nation’s self-reliance andin sustainability Qatar” The support extended by Lulu products Hypermarkets to the drive started off with the steadfast efforts of local companies and farms helped to energize and green Tfarmers under the umbrella of the Ministry of up the local economy as the investment made by them Municipality and Environment (MME) a few years ago. in the process remains within the country. Farmers are The general awakening happened in the agricultural benefitted with maximum return on their investment as sector and in the nation’s economy at large in the recent buying Qatar national products and agricultural produce past has been instrumental in attaining self-reliance and minimize expenses incurred towards handling and sustainability. transportation. Lulu has also been supporting locally manufactured FMCG products. They have provided dedicated space and POS for the locally manufactured products and started sourcing of their private label products locally. This has ensured uninterrupted supplies and stock availability to the Group. The management stated that at least 150 Lulu Private Label products including meat, poultry, water, tissues etc. are being manufactured in Qatar. Lulu Group is now in pursuit of extending its product lines and making enormous progress in its efforts for self-reliance. It is also said that they have a plan to use their Qatar hub to export its own Qatar-made products to other sourcing offices across the world.

The governmental authorities have played a pivotal role in this initiative, and especially the support being extended by the Ministry of Municipality & Environment to the private sector farm owners has been invaluable in this context, which encouraged them to make advancement in the agricultural and other related sectors big way, reiterating its commitment to promote Qatari Most recently, Lulu Hypermarket Qatar was certified to ensure food security, self-sufficiency and economic products in all Lulu stores. To upkeep this commitment, as the first retailer in MENA to achieve sustainable efficiency by adopting best practices in farming with they keep on increasing promotions, visibilities, pace, and operations certification under the Global Sustainability optimal use of scarce resources and minimum impact making the listing easier. The festival largely showcases Assessment System (GSAS) from the Gulf Organisation on the environment. The Ministry of Municipality and the agricultural bounty of the nation due to sustained for Research & Development (GORD). The project Environment provided them marketing platforms at efforts taken by the farm owners relying on the advanced achieved an overall score of 1.51 after audit by the several major outlets including Lulu Hypermarket, agricultural methods. sustainability experts from GSAS Trust and GORD Labs, to support local farms to get suitable prices for their With a vision to support the budding Qatari startup which corresponds to a ‘GOLD’ rating under the GSAS Although Lulu Hypermarkets have been promoting produce. The government support enabled local farmers companies, Lulu Hypermarket Group recently signed Operations certification. Qatari products and farm produces for a long time by to offer high quality produce at very competitive prices, an agreement with the Bedaya Center - a joint initiative now, they have been concentrating more in this regard especially during the season. between Qatar Development Bank and Silatech. recently as a social and economic commitment to the Lulu Hypermarket, as a responsible retailer, has nation. Over the years, the group has expanded its retail nurtured long-standing close tie up with the local farmers storage area to 3 million sq.ft. in the region. During the A passionate promoter of Qatari food and non- and has been the focal point in marketing the local pandemic, they had opened two retail stores – one at food products and agricultural produce throughout the agricultural produce since beginning of its operations Bin Mahmoud and the other at Lusail City. Additionally, year, Lulu Group has made available round the year on in Qatar. Lulu supported them largely by increasing its the group has made investment on three state-of-the-art their shelves more than 2000 items from all prominent procurement of a wide variety of locally grown produce warehouses in the country. Qatari brands, to name a few: Baladna, Mazzraty, and food products and selling them through its retail Dandy, Ghadeer, Al Maha, Qbake, Athba, Rawa, qfm, Manateq, the sustainable foundation for Qatar’s stores across the region. This has minimized the handling Rayyan, Qatar Pafki, Pearl, Flora, Gourmet, Agrico Qatar, Economic Diversification, has allotted land for a and transportation costs, and that gives farmers the Paramount Agricole, Ocean Fish, Napoli Bakeries, Al warehouse and the work in this regard is under progress. maximum return on their investment. Shoppers are Waha, Korean Bakeries, Al Manhal, Dana, Aqua Gulf, Safa, They have also signed an agreement with Qatar Free also benefited as they get the best quality farm-fresh Sidra, Lusail, Doha and Napico, etc. Zone Authority for an automated fulfilment center, and agri-products at highly modest prices. The Group has the spadework is underway. As part of expansion of Lulu Hypermarket has been organizing the festival arranged dedicated area for exhibiting Qatari products e-commerce, recently they had enhanced the fleet facility of Qatari products annually since 2010 in cooperation prominently to help the local produce to compete with and expanded the area of coverage. those imported ones. with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment in a Special Supplement MADE IN QATAR Wednesday, June 30, 2021 5 Galfar Al Misnad strengthens business portfolio in Qatar hile driving along the Orbital Highway in Umm Salaal, a deep blue To improve the productivity and quality, the facility’s distinctive features edifice seems to emerge from the distance, breaking the monotony include a semi-automatic pipe spool fabrication system, and profile cutting Wof the browns of the desert. This impressive structure is the home solutions for structural steel fabrication. In addition to this, the GFC team Satish G. Pillai of the brand new Galfar Fabrication and Coating (GFC) Facility and the Galfar plans to implement the Spool Welding Robot shortly, which will increase the Plant & Equipment Workshop. automation of the facility to further enhance productivity and quality. Executive Director They are the latest state-of-the-art additions to the vast in-house GFC is well appointed with specialized equipment that meet all client Galfar Al Misnad resources of the leading Qatari contracting company, Galfar Al Misnad. Both requirements and comply with environmentally sustainable processes, establishments, along with the company’s large training hall and central stores namely, the CNC Plasma Cutting Machine and CNC Plate Rolling Machine. The “Over the past 25 years of are housed on 42,000 sqm of land in Manateq’s Jery Al Samur Logistics Park. facility’s large pool of machinery also include a Hydraulic Shearing Machine, Galfar’s journey in Qatar, our The location is easily accessible by main highways, providing connectivity to CNC Press Brake, Radial Drilling Machine, and Lathe. Doha, Mesaieed, Ras Laffan and Dukhan. operational standards have Speaking about the new facilities, Satish G. Pillai, Executive Director of GFC FACILITY THROUGHPUTS: become benchmarks for Galfar Al Misnad, said, “Over the past 25 years of Galfar’s journey in Qatar, our quality, workmanship, safety, operational standards have become benchmarks for quality, workmanship, Piping Fabrication – 15,000 ID per month with auto pipe spool safety, environmental sustainability, and technical support. The new GFC fabrication machinery. environmental sustainability, facility will considerably expand our capabilities in fabrication and coating, and technical support. The new GFC facility and allow us to cater to the burgeoning needs of the energy sector in the Plates Rolling – 500 MT per month for API 650 & API 620 tanks. country. Further, the newly built inhouse plant workshop ensures reliable Steel Structure Fabrication – 400 MT per month. will considerably expand our capabilities in backup support for our large fleet of equipment and vehicles.” fabrication and coating, and allow us to cater to the burgeoning needs of the energy sector in the country. Further, the newly built inhouse plant workshop ensures reliable backup support for our large fleet of equipment and vehicles.”

application, fire proofing application, and oil & gas maintenance for onshore & offshore. Additionally, the company also provides the following protection methods for Structural Steel and Concrete Assets: pressure washing; solvent cleaning; sandblasting; painting of equipment, presses and machinery; and interior preparation and painting of walls, epoxy floor systems, warehouses, and production areas. GALFAR PLANT & EQUIPMENT WORKSHOP Galfar Fabrication and Coating Facility (GFC) This workshop will cater to the repair and maintenance of the more than 1700 in-house equipment and vehicles of the company’s plant division. The This unique facility will strengthen Galfar Al Misnad’s business portfolio, Coating Facilities facility comprises of large repair bays, service ramps and electric service extending enhanced support and services to their clientele in Qatar. Moreover, GFC is a recognized leader in the application of industrial protective lifts for carrying out preventive maintenance, denting and painting shop, the expansion of capabilities will augment localisation and self-reliance, in coatings in Qatar. They have distinguished themselves as a service provider machine shop, and ancillary repair unit. They are all built in accordance with alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030. with the resources to handle jobs of all sizes; from all types of storage tanks; environment regulations. The entire division is managed by a well experienced structural steel, and piping; to manufacturing facilities, chemical plants and and dedicated team of transport executives, maintenance engineers, GALFAR FABRICATION AND COATING refineries. mechanics, and technicians who have specialised skill sets in fault diagnosis FACILITY (GFC) With a view to provide maximum flexibility, GFC maintains the requisite and are capable of undertaking various kinds of repairs. manpower and resources to perform client projects driven by schedule, The building also includes a large training hall, offices, a fuel station, and GFC provides a comprehensive range of high quality services with budget, technology, and project specific parameters. Their list of capabilities a spare parts store which serves as a backup for Galfar Al Misnad’s large fleet specialisation in fabrication of steel structures, piping, tank plates rolling, and include, tank blasting & painting, piping coating, structural coating, equipment of equipment and vehicles. The large parking bay around the workshop caters industrial protective coatings. painting, floor coating, and decorative painting. for 75 vehicles, including 42 spots for trucks and equipment. The property also houses utility rooms, pump rooms, fire water tank and amenities and support facilities. All the functional designs are built with the GFC’s unique industrial coating facilities enable them to apply single highest quality materials and the best workmanship. The company’s trained or multiple coats on different applications, including jet fuel storage tanks, and certified employees are equipped with the skills and industrial expertise thermal storage tanks, fire water tanks, live piping, structural members, required to ensure top-notch service to different business demands. wrapping, and gantry cranes. Mobile unit systems also provide GFC’s painters an on-site extension of the workshop environment in order to maintain the The existing fabrication and coating services of Galfar Al Misnad are quality finish anywhere in Qatar. sought after in the country for their competitiveness, and the utmost priority the company provides to its customers. Their services are already pre- The GFC team consists of more than 300 applicators and supervisors approved with key clients in both the public and private sector in Qatar. who deliver safe and superior services using a Quality Systems Program. The MoE approved coating facility protects the environment with its fume and Fabrication Facilities dust collector systems. Furthermore, the painters utilise a modern airless conventional paint application system. This eco-friendly methodology ensures GFC’s capabilities include piping pre-fabrication, plates rolling for API a consistent quality finish. 650, API 620 tanks, heavy custom steel fabrication, structural columns, and other specialised fabricated products like platforms, stairways, caged ladders, As part of their services, GFC offers surface preparation, protective railings, hand rails, etc. coating application, decorating painting application, concrete coating Galfar Plant and Equipment Workshop Special Supplement 6 Wednesday, June 30, 2021 MADE IN QATAR THE JOURNEY TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY

atar’s population has more than quadrupled Several local companies are following organic the development of the agricultural sector. For since 2000, increasing dependence on food Several local companies are farming principles as the demand for organic instance, there has been a concerted effort to supply Qimports and leading to a growing sense of products is increasing with consumers becoming greenhouse owners all over the country with low-cost national food insecurity. Fully aware of the issue, the following organic farming more aware of the benefits of locally grown technology needed to increase production, reducing Qatar National Food Security Program (QNFSP) was principles as the demand organic produce and follow a healthier lifestyle. the capital investment required for start-ups. established in 2008 to reduce Qatar’s reliance on Moreover, some companies like Agrico Agricultural Qatar’s treated wastewater stood at 22.11mn cubic food imports through improved self-sufficiency. The for organic products is Development, apart from the sustainable farming metres out of 22.34mn cubic metres of wastewater QNFSP develops recommendations for food security methods that they follow, are applying circular received in September last year, according to the policy and works with foreign governments and increasing with consumers economy principles, aiming to transform business data of the Planning and Statistics Authority. The non-governmental organizations to develop practices becoming more aware of processes into sustainable, closed-loop resource country uses the most modern membrane ultra- that utilize resources efficiently within the agricultural systems, in their waste management by composting filtration system that helps in the recycling of treated sector. the benefits of locally grown and reusing the organic waste generated in the farm. wastewater. The treated wastewater saw an 11.4% Moreover, the 2017 Gulf rift raised national organic produce and follow a Several opportunities for the development of and 6.5% month-on-month and year-on-year decline concerns regarding food security and led the country this sector include exports, the use of greenhouse respectively in the review period. to explore alternative supply-side strategies and healthier lifestyle farming with hydroponics and aquaponics and the Nevertheless, there has been an overall robust sources to satisfy the country’s food demand. In use of TSE for irrigation, permaculture techniques, reuse of treated wastewater in agriculture, a sector response, food production in Qatar greatly increased and the use of saline crops. that has received increased thrust and support and it was soon appreciated that agricultural in Qatar can now be considered to be an emerging The government, through the Ministry of from the government as part of the self-sustaining production was both economically viable and a much industry with the number of active and operational Municipality and Environment, has launched initiatives, especially after the country came under more sustainable solution. Consequently, agriculture farms has increased steadily during the recent times. several initiatives to help and further encourage unjust economic and trade embargo. Special Supplement MADE IN QATAR Wednesday, June 30, 2021 7

Enhancing food security This has been inked with nine private companies signed an agreement to implement contracts livestock breeders on the importance of developing for projects in five complexes: Al Wakra, Abu Nakhla, for three agricultural projects to produce green nurseries through afforestation and planting wild The Ministry of Municipality and Environment has Al Kharib, Al Khor, and Simsima. Each project will fodder using treated wastewater, with three private plants. signed a number of contracts and agreements with cover an area of 50,000sqm. companies to produce about 10,000 tonnes per year the authorities concerned in the country to enhance The MME, on its part, will provide appropriate The initiative to establish sheep breeding and at a production rate of up to 20 tonnes per year, per wild trees and seedlings as well as technical and food security and achieve self-sufficiency in strategic hectare each. commodities. fattening projects aims to achieve the highest advisory support on the methods of cultivation and possible rates of production according to the best Plots of land for these projects have been plant care. The ministry signed a memorandum of international standards, and use the best scientific allocated in three areas: Al-Karaana (with a total area understanding with Qatar Development Bank (QDB) HE the Assistant Deputy Minister for Agriculture methods in raising local sheep and goats, as well of about 1.5mn sqm), Bu Glaila (with an area of about and Fisheries Sheikh Dr Faleh bin Nasser al-Thani to launch an initiative to encourage the production of as the ability to collect male sheep from producing 2mn sqm), and Aba Al Hiran, with an area of about tilapia by giving farmers an opportunity to establish said that the initiative, launched in co-operation farms in the country and fatten them with a focus on 3mn sqm. with Anaam, aims to support the ministry’s efforts in productive projects on farms registered in the their distinct types. country, and with concessional financing from QDB. Projects to produce green fodder using treated promoting environmental sustainability by increasing The projects will use the best environmental wastewater are one of the important to support food the green area and developing nurseries. The initiative includes establishing two projects technology and methods to achieve the maximum security due to the increased demand for the same. for the production of tilapia fish with a capacity of He explained that the MME seeks, through the possible efficiency in the use of resources, while Assistant director of the MME’s Agricultural signing of the memorandum, to support all initiatives about 310 tonnes per project per year, with a total ensuring environmental sustainability. production of about 610 tonnes per year. This will Affairs Department, Adel Al Keldi al-Yafei, said and activities aimed at increasing afforestation, contribute to achieving 70% self-sufficiency with Each project includes establishing the projects to produce green fodder using treated developing vegetation cover and preserving the regard to tilapia in the country. pens necessary for breeding and fattening, a wastewater aim to cover the needs of the local environment, while stressing the importance of slaughterhouse, and a unit for fermentation of market, and noted their role in preserving working in partnership with other bodies and The two projects will give farmers an opportunity manure, in addition to stores for the production groundwater by reducing dependence on associations to develop nurseries and spread to improve their production by taking advantage of requirements of fodder and other materials. groundwater and moving to use treated wastewater. awareness among all segments of society. the integrated farming system between plants and fish together, relying on fish residues to feed the The fattening projects initiative will achieve a set The local market’s annual consumption of green Assistant undersecretary for Environmental plants to obtain healthy vegetables that are free of of goals, the most important of which are increasing fodder is about 215,000 tonnes, while the total Affairs, Hassan Jumaa al-Muhannadi, said that the chemicals. the self-sufficiency rate in terms of red meat, making production is 115,000 tonnes annually, with a self- launch of this initiative contributes to preserving use of farms and traditional farms as a strategic sufficiency rate of 54%. the environment, mitigating global warming and In a statement, director of the MME’s Fish stock for animals producing red meat, creating a These projects are expected to cover about 10% the effects of pollution, combating desertification Resources Department Abdulaziz al-Duhaimi permanent outlet for sheep and goat breeders to sell and limiting grazing degradation by promoting affirmed the ministry’s keenness to adopt projects of the domestic consumption gap, as green fodder their production for fattening projects, and providing production in Qatar will reach about 125,300 tonnes an increase in vegetation cover and an increase in that support the programmes of the national technical and advisory support for breeders. biodiversity. strategy for the development of the fisheries and per year. aquaculture sector, and enhance the food security of The MME’s Animal Resources Department Meanwhile, the MME and the Qatar Livestock Anaam president Mubarak Rashid al-Sahouti these products. He noted that the tilapia fish farming director Abdulaziz al-Ziyara explained that the Society (Anaam) signed a memorandum of noted the role of the Society and livestock breeders projects will directly contribute to developing ministry continues to work towards achieving its understanding to launch an initiative to rehabilitate in preserving the environment, activating the and supporting food security and increasing local goals and implementing its plans for increasing and afforest mobile farms in the country, with the introduction of environmental awareness into the production of these economically viable species. the local production of red meat, and stressed that aim of contributing to preserving the environment Anaam’s activities, stressing the importance of the offering these projects to the private sector will initiative in supporting and developing nurseries in The MME, represented by the agricultural sector, and intensifying the vegetation cover with wild tree contribute to achieving food security and increasing species from the Qatari environment. the areas surrounding the farms, which will have a also signed an agreement comprising contracts for self-sufficiency in this area. positive impact on environmental sustainability and nine projects for the breeding and fattening of local Under the initiative, the Qatar Livestock Society increasing green spaces. sheep and goats. The MME, represented by the agricultural sector, will play an awareness and advisory role to educate

Qatar vegetable production reaches 60,000 tonnes this year he uptrend in the volume of vegetable production in Qatar Agrico has developed a highly sophisticated hydroponics is expected to continue year-on-year, ensuring a steady system capable of producing various types of organic and Tsupply of fresh produce from local ‘active farms’, a prominent pesticide-free vegetables and fruits year-long. It also ventured in agriculturist told Gulf Times. aquaponics aimed at producing better and high quality yields at a “If local farms produced around 40,000 tonnes in the past faster pace. years, we have reached 60,000 tonnes this year due to the He noted that Qatar also started exporting its hydroponics increase in the number of production (active) farms and the farming technology in the region, particularly to Oman where a growing area and greenhouses,” said Nasser Ahmed al-Khalaf, 1mn sqm farm is being developed and could be ready by next year. who is also the owner and managing director of Agrico, a private Agrico will be in charge of its operation and marketing. Qatari agricultural development company. Al-Khalaf expressed confidence that the volume of vegetable He also cited the significant contribution of advanced farming production in Qatar will keep increasing annually “but our aim is technology in growing various types of vegetables in the country not only to increase the amount of production but also the ‘season MADE IN QATAR even during the summer season. Some of these fresh produce of production.” Supplement Team include cucumber, tomato, zucchini, eggplant, lettuce, bell pepper, “I’m happy to see some farms are following on our steps and Advtg. & Mktg. Manager Printed by onion, beans, capsicum, and other green leafy vegetables, in start to use our technology. As a result we do have some farms Hassan Ali Anwari Raya Commercial Printing Press addition to mushrooms. that are producing vegetables all year long,” he stressed. Supplement Editor “We are at the end of the season this year, but some farms It is learnt that the growing demand for fresh produce in the Amjad Vanimal Advertising Office will continue to produce until end of June using greenhouses with country prompted many non-productive local farms to become Sr. Business Development Manager Gulf Times / Arrayah Building, cooling system. Unfortunately the production does not last during active and adopted hydroponics farming. Sanjai Noah C Ring Road, summer and the only way is using high tech greenhouse with Layout / Graphics P.O. Box 533, Doha Qatar cooling and hydroponic system,” al-Khalaf said. A.K. Vinay Kumar Tel: (+974) 44466652 Circulation In-charge Fax: (+974) 44360986 Sherif Samy email: [email protected]

Special Supplement 10 Wednesday, June 30, 2021 MADE IN QATAR Chairman’s message Qatar has successfully cemented its position as one of the most resilient, diverse and competitive economies in the S’hail’hail Holding is one of the leading Holding establishments in Qatar that operates UBCGroup and sheets. The facility also produces aluminium alloys like ADC12, LM6 region. This is in line with the approach set by His Highness in producing and exporting processed non-ferrous metals, stainless steel or any other alloy upon request by the client. the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, to achieve the Sand plastic in the State of Qatar. The company has a solid business base Multiple smelting facilities housed within the factory allow them to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to transform Qatar and extensive market reach with strong logistic support and modern export an overall smelting capacity of 40,000 metric tonnes per year, split across a into an advanced country, capable of sustaining its own facilities in several locations around the region. 3-chamber furnace (15,000 MT) and a single rotary-tilting furnace (25,000 development and providing a high standard of living for all of its people for generations to come.

Sheikh Khaled bin Mubarak al-Thani, Chairman

Qatar has worked on balancing its strategies and plans to promote comprehensive development by embracing integrated economic policies that raise the contribution of the non-hydrocarbon sector to GDP. Qatar also continues to focus on the energy sector as an important source of national revenue while channeling these revenues into supporting all economic sectors and transforming national industries and trade sectors into active partners in achieving Its reputation exceeds itself with an extensive network of subsidiaries the objectives of its National Development Strategy. firmly established as the leading recycling enterprise in Qatar. S’hail Holding Group comprises of over 10 diverse and extensive companies across 10 Along these lines, S’hail Holding Group, which is considered locations in Qatar, the United Kingdom, China, South Korea and Ethiopia. The the first of its kind in the country, has prioritized the group boasts a collective metal production capacity of over 100,000 metric development of a favourable business to meet the needs tons per year, and a collective plastic production capacity of over 10,000 of the country and build a strong production base that will metric tons per year. achieve balanced economic growth for Qatar. The company utilizes the latest cutting-edge technology throughout each and every one of their dedicated facilities, ensuring an efficient streamlined GOALS environmentally-friendly operation, and a high-quality end product tailored to Develop our skills in the metal and plastic industry to reach the highest meet the specifications of any given client. levels of sophistication and quality in the Arab and Western World, our S’hail Holding Group is now working to expand the trade operations of the goal in that is to satisfy God and customers. group, and export its premium products to major European and international markets, whilst looking to obtain additional material sources within new MISSION promising regions. The firm strives to provide clients with products of the highest caliber with premium products according to international standards. To provide extensive logistical services and systematic and safe export to major European and international markets according to its Since its inception, S’hail Holding Group has achieved considerable standards with continuous search for additional sources of resources in growth, and expansion due to their strong leadership, and great work ethics. promising areas. They continue to make investments into both their equipment and industry experts, unwilling to compromise in their endeavour to stand out as an industry leader in the local and international markets. VISION First of its kind in the country, places its top priority on meeting the country’s needs through the modern and advanced industries it provides and building a strong production base that contributes to the economic growth of the State of Qatar.

MT). With a particular emphasis on metal cleanliness, analytical accuracy and compositional consistency, clients can enjoy products with premium quality and upmost satisfaction.

Shail Plastic S’hail Plastic is one of S’hail Holding Group’s establishments spreading across 10,000 m2 located in the Industrial Area in Doha City. The Material Processing Factory emphasizes the use of cutting-edge technology from Taiwan and Germany to produce 4,000 metric tons of pelletized plastic per year from wholly recycled sources. The facility is responsible for the fabrication of a number of industrial plastics and other material products Ma’aden including pelletized black PP, HDPE, LDPE, and PE, as well as a range of From Germany, the company is using SICONS’s innovative processing of recycled plastic garbage bins available in 110 liter, 240 liter, and 360 liter scrap and shredder residues for all types of metals including steel copper, varieties. aluminuim and plastic; which has additionally successfully adopted its competence to density-based separation.Ma’aden Company updates and S’hail Global Logistic Services refines various metal products from different sources and of greatly differing S’hail Global Logistic Services is a distribution arm that operates a fleet quality to products suitable for use as input materials in steel mills and at of 50 vehicles from their dedicated 5,000 m2 facility located near the newly non-ferrous smelters. This is achieved by using different technologies such as developed Hamad Port in Qatar. Thus, making it an ideal location for the ease airflow, eddy-current, floatation and magnetic technology. of exporting and importing. From this base, the firm is able to distribute to This makes sorting more efficient, as contaminants are removed clients far and wide, benefiting substantially from the facility’s excellent access and the sorting depth is increased. At Ma’aden, the firm is committed to to major transport routes, proximity to ports and airports, and their own deliver customers with the best, tailor-made products according to their internal network of wholly-owned facilities and locations. specifications of the highest levels.

The National Factory for Copper The National Factory of Copper, which occupies a total area of 10,000m2 in the heart of Doha’s modern industrial area, stands as the first of its kind in the region. The facility is fully fitted out with automatic lines, advanced process controls, and the latest in copper-machining technology. All products manufactured within this factory will possess minimal surface defects and Copper Oxide, thereby maintaining lowest Oxygen levels for premium product specifications. The factory specialises in the manufacturing of copper rods, ingots and bullions in accordance with international specifications, for which it has a total manufacturing capacity of 25,000 metric tonnes per year facilitated by the latest technology from France, Italy, Russia, and Germany. It manufactures 8 mm Cu-FRHC (fire-refined, high-conductivity) copper rods, bullions and ingots. They use secondary copper to produce Cu-FRHC that’s commonly used to make power cables, building wiring, and many other electrical wire products. The firm takes pride in their premium products of copper bullions and ingots, produced in accordance to clients’ specifications following international standards to the highest degree. The National Factory for Aluminum Another regional first-of-its-kind for the group comes in the form of the National Factory for Aluminum. Similar to its copper-orientated counterpart, it occupies 10,000 m2 within Doha’s industrial area. The company is widely acknowledged as the leading aluminium recycling facility in Qatar with significant technical knowledge in the aluminium recycling process. Thus, the firm is able to ensure the best output levels are achieved to produce quality aluminium ingots catered to the clients’ specifications. Substantial investments have seen this facility outfitted with the most advanced applicable technologies and machinery, imported in this case from Spain, Austria, and Germany. The facility produces aluminium base metals from automotive casting, extrusions, wheels, radiators, wire and cables,

Special Supplement 12 Wednesday, June 30, 2021 MADE IN QATAR SHRIMP FISH FARMING PRODUCTION he Aquatic Research Centre (ARC) of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) at Ras Matbakh Twill produce 1,000 tonnes shrimp next year. “Plans are progressing in this regard,” ARC director Ibrahim Salman al- Muhannadi recently told Qatar TV. “The country currently imports 100% of its shrimp requirement from abroad,” he explained. The ARC has two hatcheries, one for fish and the other for shrimp. Modern methods and devices are used for shrimp hatching while a special laboratory measures the extent of shrimp’s tolerance to salinity, temperature and diseases. This is in addition to the research to reduce salinity so that shrimp can be farmed in freshwater. In December 2020, the MME announced the production of the first batch of shrimps at the centre. Out of the total production of around 250,000 shrimp larvae (PL25 type), about 160,000 were moved to the external cages, with work progressing to produce at least 2mn larvae by the end of March 2021. In an attempt to increase fish production, preserve marine wealth and promote research, the ministry opened ARC in January 2020. The centre focuses on the production of high quality fish as per the needs of the local market. The centre has made a future plan to produce 80mn baby fish and shrimp yearly. In progress is a programme to produce 2.5mn baby fishes of Hamour, yellowfin seabream (Al Shaam) and sparidentex hasta (Al Sobeiti) species. It is also envisaged to produce 15mn baby fish and atari fish farms are expected to annually produce the local market and maintaining the national fish wealth, shrimp during the first three years by making around 600 tonnes of tilapia, almost equal to a as the country imports around 2,000 tonnes of tilapia fish use of 180 ponds. Qquarter of the imported quantity, but at an attractive a year. After three years of producing Hamour, Al price, a senior official announced recently. Accordingly, licences will be granted to two strategic Shaam, Al Sobeiti and local shrimp, there is a plan Mohamed Mahmoud al-Abdullah, head of the fish projects for the production of tilapia fish at registered to focus on specific species, in order to achieve self- farming section at the Fisheries Department at the Ministry farms, with an estimated production capacity of sufficiency and meet the needs of the local market. around 310 tonnes a year, per project. of Municipality and Environment (MME) was addressing a Courtesy: Gulf Times reports press conference about the national initiative to encourage Al-Hajiri stressed that the Food Security Department the production of tilapia fish in Qatari farms. has many other initiatives and projects to be launched “The fisheries sector in the country has made major in the future according to the National Strategy for Food strides to develop farms and maintain the food security Security in co-ordination with various departments and strategy in the sector,” he explained in the presence of sections in the Agriculture Sector. Hamad Hadi al-Hajiri, head of the programmes and projects For instance, a number of related initiatives and section at the Food Security Department, and a number of projects were launched earlier, including the production of specialists. table eggs in the Qatari farms, fortified and green livestock Al-Abdullah pointed out that the Fisheries Department fodder, and greenhouses. Besides, nine projects were aims to support the owners of farms and improve their launched recently to fatten and raise sheep and livestock. income while increasing the diversity of fish products in The farmed tilapia fish will be exclusively marketed in Qatar.

MME takes part in 16th edition of farm, livestock expo in Izmir he State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), participated in the activities of the 16th Izmir International Agriculture and TLivestock Exhibition (AGROEXPO 2021), which was held from June 23-27, in Izmir, Turkey. The state delegation at the exhibition was represented by a number of officials from the agricultural and fisheries affairs sector, and representatives of the most important agricultural and animal production companies in the State of Qatar, headed by Assistant Undersecretary for Agriculture and Fisheries Affairs at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment H E Sheikh Dr. Faleh bin Nasser Al Thani.

The Ministry of Municipality and Environment’s pavilion at AGROEXPO 2021, in Izmir, Turkey.

The State of Qatar participated in the Turkish Agricultural Exhibition, with a special pavilion displaying the most important and prominent agricultural projects and services implemented by the Ministry of Municipality and Environment. On the sidelines of the exhibition, a number of contracts were signed between Qatari and Turkish companies in the field of agricultural and livestock production. The Qatari delegation also held several meetings with the participants in the exhibition, which gives them an opportunity to open channels of communication with their counterparts from all participating countries, and thus to discover the best experiences and expertise in the agricultural field. The participation of the State of Qatar in the Turkish agricultural exhibition reflects the interest of the state represented by the Ministry of Municipality and Environment in learning about the latest agricultural developments and technologies, as Qatar attaches great importance to improving and developing agriculture and livestock, in an effort to achieve self-sufficiency in commodities and foodstuffs as part of its efforts to achieve food security. The Qatari pavilion included a number of national companies working in the field of agricultural and animal production, namely: Al Rayyan Agricultural, Baladna Food Industries, the National Group for Agricultural Products “Mazzraty” and AGRICO for Agricultural Development. Special Supplement MADE IN QATAR Wednesday, June 30, 2021 13

Honey

productionhe Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), represented by the Agricultural Affairs Department, has taken several measures in the recent past to boost honey Tproduction in Qatar within the framework of its food security efforts. The ministry also aims to help farm owners increase and diversify their income through bee keeping. The Agricultural Affairs Department supports and encourages bee keeping activities QGBC leads the way in the country under the National Honeybee Project and it has started yielding positive results. Honey production is set to increase further because of the ministry’s proactive efforts in this direction. The number of queen bees (queen bee refers to an adult, mated female in a hive), for example, went up to 987 last year, which were distributed to the active farms after ascertaining their quality, in order to enhance honey production. As many as 510 queen in Qatar’s green bees were distributed to 18 farms between January and April itself, while efforts are on to produce queen bees in the nursery. Furthermore, the Agricultural Affairs Department has been working consistently since 2016 to promote beekeeping in the country. The ministry also provides technical support and training for supervisors and beekeepers on breeding and producing honey while offering them the necessary hospitality guidance. ith preparations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 To address the need for quality assurance of waste management, well under way, Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC) is QGBC recently launched Al Tadweer, a recycling validation scheme Wspearheading a country-wide initiative. To ensure that Qatar that provides scalable guidance for the recycling industry in Qatar. The is prepared to welcome football fans next year, the initiative aims to programme offers a validation pathway for the industry covering the implement green practices in the hospitality industry. whole recycling lifecycle: solid waste collections and haulers to waste; One key aspect of ensuring a more sustainable hospitality industry sorting and processing; and waste recycling into manufacturing. has been the implementation of a supply chain for 360-degree waste Additionally, in September 2020, QGBC released ‘Sustainable Ashghal constructs new TSE filling unit s management. In a series of recent virtual workshops hosted as part Hospitality: Case Studies from Green Key Hotels in Qatar’ – a report part of its efforts to facilitate the availability of treated water, the Public of its Green Hotels for Qatar - Challenges and Pathways, held in that provides a comprehensive overview of the hospitality sector in Works Authority (Ashghal) has built a filling station for treated sewage partnership with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) Qatar and assesses the current challenges and what can be done to Aeffluent (TSE) at the Doha West Sewage Treatment Plant. and supported by the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC), QGBC ensure more sustainable practices. The report highlights the green The objective is to supply TSE directly from the plant to the users, an Ashghal converged relevant stakeholders in the hotel sector to ascertain the practices of W Doha Hotel & Residences, Marriott Marquis City Center statement said recently. This step comes as part of Ashghal’s initiatives to provide best way forward in the handling and recycling of solid waste. Doha Hotel, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre Hotel, TSE filling stations in various strategic locations in Qatar to encourage the “It is important to stress the need for quality control to ensure Radisson Blu Hotel Doha, Mandarin Oriental Doha and Warwick Doha industrial, construction, fodder agriculture and cooling sectors to use treated water the effective handling of waste from collection to transportation, to Hotel, all of which are Green Key certified and leading the way in instead of potable water. sorting and recycling,” QGBC, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), sustainability best practices in the sector, the statement notes. The project includes design, supply, installation, construction and operation of said in a press statement. The Green Key Certificate is an international initiative that provides the TSE tanker filling station at the Doha West Sewage Treatment Plant, which is Key recommendations for waste reduction and sustainable a sustainability framework for several sectors, including the hospitality strategically located at the crossroads between Salwa Road and Al Majd Road. procurement include: the supply chain needs to be validated and industry. QGBC leads the initiative in Qatar, providing hotels with The filling station for TSE at the Doha West plant can fill up to 20 tankers have quality assurance, making use of local and eco-friendly products; guidelines and checklists to implement greener practices. simultaneously with a capacity of 20 cubic metres of treated water. It takes about hotels should have a clear framework and clearly streamline best “We have several hotels in Qatar that are Green Key-certified. 12 minutes to fill a tanker. The plant can fill up to 40 tankers per hour, 960 tankers practices for waste management; and the circular waste economy has Spearheading the initiative in Qatar, QGBC provides hotels with step- per day and more than 350,000 tankers per annum. The Doha West plant produces to gain stakeholders’ trust and support of regulations. by-step guidance and trustworthy and transparent criteria to make 275,000 cubic metres of TSE per day and in 2020 it produced approximately 100 Commenting on the importance of circularity in solid waste the process of implementing green practices straightforward. The mn cubic metres treated water. management, Hamoda Youssef, head of Technical Affairs at QGBC, process can be done in-house whereby hotels are able to comply with Ashghal operates 24 wastewater treatment plants across Qatar. These plants noted the many challenges facing the industry in relation to effective the green criteria in a cost-effective manner,” Youssef explained. produce TSE that conforms to international and local specifications. The uses of and sustainable waste management, which include a lack of Through the Green Key certification, QGBC offers the TSE include irrigation of green areas and beautification of roads, fodder agriculture, incentives, regulation and quality assurance measures. hospitality industry the tools to leverage their business in the field cooling system, washing sand used in construction and roads and construction He also highlighted the exceptional progress that is being made, of sustainability while also granting them access to a global network projects. saying: “With the help of our partners and the industry stakeholders, of experts where they can keep abreast on the latest best-practice The treatment process begins with the primary stage of removing sludge, sand we managed to identify the many challenges facing the hotel industry guidelines in the sustainable development of the industry. and oils, followed by the secondary stage of removing nutrients, then the tertiary to achieve effective waste management. With QGBC having laid the foundation for establishing a robust advanced filtering stage using sand and microns (UF 0.02 micron) and then the “However, despite the hurdles, we are also seeing excellent best circular waste economy in the hospitality industry - one that is built on sterilisation process by chlorine and ultraviolet rays. practices being implemented by hotels in terms of raising staff quality, engagement and involvement - there is sure to be buy-in from The drainage water flows by gravitational force from the facilities to the lifting awareness, changing the mindset of guests, altering procurement other sectors in the country, the statement adds. stations, from where the water is pushed to the treatment plants. The water enters policy, and reducing quantities of food waste.” When Qatar hosts one of the biggest sporting events in the through various treatment stages to finally emerge as TSE, suitable for many uses. The process of sorting waste is particularly important when it world next year, it will be well-equipped to effectively and seamlessly Ashghal’s two wastewater treatment plants in West Doha and Lusail provide comes to green best practices in the hotel industry. Waste handlers manage the excess waste produced in the hotel sector. This will the service of filling treated water to tankers. Many advanced systems and need to ensure that different materials are separated correctly and pave the way for greener and more sustainable practices in the hotel technological solutions are used, such as smart meters, leakage detection devices, not mixed as failing to do so would greatly impact the possibility of it industry as well other sectors, further positioning the country as a tankers tracking systems and lately the systemised filling stations. being able to be utilised for quality recycled products. regional leader in championing sustainability. Special Supplement 14 Wednesday, June 30, 2021 MADE IN QATAR

QF graduates on mission to stop plastic cutlery use in Qatar QF research explores using By Joseph Varghese Two former students of Texas A&M University at Qatar (Tamuq), a Qatar Foundation (QF) partner university, have launched an initiative to discourage the use of plastic cutlery in Qatar. organic waste to boost food Abdullah Shaat and Saoud al-Emadi, who graduated from Tamuq in 2019, have started a company called Enavra – meaning “from earth to earth” - selling environment-friendly cutlery made from the seeds of avocado. The products, which aim to discourage the use production in Qatar of plastic cutlery in Qatar, are available on QF’s EC By Joseph Varghese Marketplace platform. n an effort to find a more efficient waste disposal Speaking about how the idea evolved, Shaat solution and to boost food production in the country, said: “We always believed that plastic cutlery Ia team of researchers from Qatar Foundation’s (QF) should not be used in restaurants and cafes. So Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) is exploring the last year, we decided it was necessary to find means to utilise food waste and other organic matter biodegradable alternatives that would have a for producing biochar, Gulf Times has learnt. minimal impact on the environment.” The research is led by Dr Gordon McKay, professor “We began by investigating alternatives of sustainable development at HBKU and funded by available in the local and global market. We QF’s Qatar National Research Fund. Installation of a tried and tested several samples over a period large pilot plant for the project at Education City is also of months, eventually finding the perfect expected later this year. biodegradable product, which uses avocado seeds Biochar, also known as agriculture’s black gold due as the base,” he continued. to its charcoal-like appearance, adds great value to the The duo faced a number of challenges at the soil. start of their venture, especially the launch of “Biochar is a charcoal-like substance that’s Enavra coinciding with the start of Covid-19 in produced when agricultural waste, plant matter the country and globally. According to al-Emadi, (leaves, trunks, roots), manure or other organic shipping costs were high for the products as they material is heated in a zero- or low-oxygen had to be brought in from North America. environment – a process known as pyrolysis,” said Dr They also faced several other issues, as al- Hamish Mackey, associate professor, College of Science Emadi noted: “We found it very difficult to convince and Engineering (C SE), HBKU. business owners to adopt an environment-friendly Preliminary studies by the group using biochar option, especially when plastic disposables are so produced from local waste cabbage have been “very easily available and are very cheap.” promising”. Pot tests were done by adding biochar to “We analysed shipping methods and tried to sandy soil to investigate the effect of biochar on the reduce costs where possible. We have succeeded growth of basil plants. in signing contracts with many companies in Qatar. And, in the long term, we aim to manufacture the Dr Gordon McKay and Dr Hamish Mackey with other members of the team products in Qatar, which will help reduce prices further and provide more options,” he added. into the soil, biochar can prevent nutrients from in arid to semiarid environments, regions prone to Al-Emadi highlighted how cutlery made from leaching out and water from draining out of the soil, drought, and areas with limited irrigation capabilities. avocado seeds is an ideal alternative as it has the making biochar an effective soil amendment,” said Dr “It is more important to note that not all biochars same texture as plastic, but breaks down within a Tareq al-Ansari, assistant professor, College of Science are the same. Their properties depend heavily on year. and Engineering, HBKU. the production parametres such as temperature and At the moment, the team is importing spoons, “Food waste is a major issue both in Qatar and heating rate. Similarly, their effects vary depending forks and knives, but plans to provide more options globally. Through this project, we are laying the on the kind of soil that is being amended, maximum such as cup covers, plates and food containers in groundwork for a circular economy in agriculture improvement is seen in sandy soil which is prevalent in the future. wherein we use food waste for the regeneration Qatar,” said, Dr Mackey. “Many cafes and restaurants have already of natural systems and enhanced agricultural “The next step is carrying out long-term started using the products and it is only a matter productivity,” continued Dr al-Ansari. evapotranspiration tests to estimate the loss of water of time until we completely replace plastic,” said Biochar production is also a carbon-negative from both plants and the soil after addition of biochar. Shaat. Dr Tareq al-Ansari process, as it effectively reduces CO2 in the This will be key in determining how much real water atmosphere. The waste used for making biochar would savings can be realised,” explained, Dr al-Ansari. Currently, 11 vendors are using the plastic Adding only 2% biochar resulted in the doubling of release carbon dioxide to the atmosphere if it is left The group is expecting installation of a large pilot alternatives sold by Enavra. “We believe that every shoot height as well as the number of leaves per plant. to decompose naturally. Through pyrolysis, its carbon plant at Education City this year, which will allow business should take part in keeping our planet It also reduced the uptake of aluminum – an undesired content can be transformed into a stable structure that them to scale up the biochar production capacity and green and sustainable. We are all responsible,” said element by the plant while increasing the uptake of doesn’t react to oxygen, ultimately reducing carbon move towards field scale testing, a crucial step before Maryam Jaber, a café owner. desirable trace metals and salts. The water retention dioxide in the atmosphere. commercialisation. “We are doing our best to go green and use capacity of the soil nearly doubled; this is likely to have Because of its porous nature, biochar can improve “Field tests will be conducted over an extended environment-friendly materials. The Enavra team a considerable effect on the irrigation needs of the the water retention capacity of soil, allowing plants to period of time so we have solid data to demonstrate has been a great supplier, we love their products – plants. have more water available to them for a longer period the effects of biochar on the soil as well as the plants we are currently using their cutlery and straws. The “Two of biochar’s most valued benefits for plant of time. Biochar is most effective when applied to soils and most importantly quantify potential water quality is very high and our customers are happy,” growth are nutrient and water retention. When worked with poor fertility making it especially useful for plants savings,” Dr Mackey added. added Jaber QBG webinar underscores local plant conservation, food security initiatives atar Foundation’s Qur’anic Botanic Garden Dr. Mohamed Elsir Ahmed Awaad, Agricultural (QBG) has hosted an online discussion titled Affairs Department, Ministry of Municipality and Q‘The Importance of Local Initiatives for Plant Environment, said: ‘We would like to thank QBG Conservation and Food Security’. for organising this fruitful event and sincerely hope The interactive session, moderated by that such seminars will be organised in the future. renowned Qatar Radio anchor Buthaina Abdul Jalil, In addition, we would like to commend the efforts featured QBG research assistant Ahmed El-Gharib of all Qatari farm owners, who have played a pivotal and several other environmental experts from role in the increase of vegetable production to meet around Qatar. the State of Qatar’s needs, with the percentage of self-sufficiency of locally grown vegetables, such They shared their expertise and experiences in as tomatoes and cucumbers well exceeding 100%. plant cultivation, agriculture, and biodiversity. Other In the near future, we hope to significantly increase discussion topics included the conservation and this percentage, particularly over the summer propagation of fungal plants, home farming, and period.’ the importance of food security initiatives. Commenting on the webinar, Fatima al- One of the guest speakers in the event, Shuaa Khulaifi, director, QBG, expressed delight in Abdullah Al-Sada, botanical researcher and author having brought together some of Qatar’s most of the book ‘Gardening in Arabia: Fruiting Plants important stakeholders to discuss these important in Qatar and the Arabian Gulf’, discussed her environmental topics. experience in tree, perennial, and medicinal plant cultivation and how they can be grown in home ‘As part of our bid to support Qatar’s conditions. She also detailed the plant varieties that sustainable development and the UN SDGs, we can be cultivated in Qatar’s high heat and humidity regularly host events, seminars, workshops, and ecological conditions. exhibitions that enable the public to engage with well-respected environmental experts. Maryam al-Dosari, founder and director of the Gharsa home gardening initiative, addressed the ‘In line with this, we brought together experts important role that local initiatives play in plant from across Qatar to share their expertise with conservation and food security, and the role of the one another, as well as the wider community, Gharsa initiative in particular, when it comes to which helps raise awareness of the pressing spreading agricultural knowledge among women need to protect the environment through plant and empowering women to cultivate. conservation, home farming, and food security initiatives.’ Other themes that she discussed included home agricultural production, the long-term preservation Additionally, in a bid to support the of food, and achieving domestic self-sufficiency Environmental Development pillar of Qatar National on an individual home basis. The Gharsa initiative Vision 2030, protect ecosystems, and empower focuses on these themes through dedicated training community members to be active contributors to programs, meetings, the exchange of seedlings and these efforts, QBG recently launched its free-of- seeds, as well as agricultural materials to enable charge ‘Home Garden Phone Helpline’. women’s agricultural success. Members of the initiative have achieved high rates of self-sufficiency of dates, lemons, and seasonal vegetables. Special Supplement MADE IN QATAR Wednesday, June 30, 2021 15 Signature launches in Qatar to facilitate corporate services

“With over 20 years of experience in public relations and corporate consultancy, the Signature aims to provide a transparent platform between expat business owners and Qatari sponsors and to provide an accurate and clear account of the legal aspects to public that are changing day by day” Mohammed Aslam President, Signature

been incredibly exciting. Our Doha office partners. As a reliable corporate service significantly boosts the company’s presence provider we can assist them well and manage in the Middle East.” without any hurdles.”

atar is a major business destination Situated in an iconic building, with can lower the possibility of needless penalties in the Gulf region, and one of the spectacular views on the c-ring road, near or similar detrimental consequences for the Qpremier cities in the Middle East the Holiday Villa Hotel in Al Hilal, their office business. Signature specialises in the legal for attracting investment. However, just is fully staffed with the skilled manpower requirements necessary, so the clients don’t as in any other country, Qatar has its own needed to drive forward innovative have to worry about any penalties, fines or specific guidelines and requirements for approaches that can inform, shape, and other negative consequences. foreign business owners and investors. As create a brighter future for businesses based The company’s highly approachable and such, it is dynamic, progressive and replete in Qatar. skilled workforce provides companies with with business opportunities, setting up any Signature’s unique history combines unrivaled access to a wealth of information, new venture in a country like Qatar can excellent reputations, and professional with around the clock support and advice be challenging, particularly when the right service mindset with a deep understanding with PRO related issues, and they also information as to how to proceed is difficult of individual business needs to support the provide free business consultation to help to discover. specific aims and goals of any business nurture and develop the formation of the In order to address this concern, entities. The firm offers a wide array of business. services, including, amongst others, business Signature, a leading player in the field The firm consists of experts in Shamseer Hamza, the co-founder of consultancy, company formation, PRO Ali Hassan, another co-founder, adds: of international corporate services, has the field of immigration, particularly in Signature, goes on to add: “Our continuing services, visa and immigration services. “It is our utmost responsibility to provide established a major presence in Qatar. With education, serving as a reliable source in success stems from our total commitment Thanks to their top-notch operation system accurate and up-to-date information to our over 20 years of experience in the public the whole process of student relocation. and unwavering focus on customer in place, Signature is capable of serving clients based on their needs. Hence, we relations and corporate consultancy, they are They assist students with work authorization satisfaction. We look forward to establishing all set to deploy their industry experts in Qatar. clients in local communities and around the documents, permits, visas, admission to develop a completely tailored solution for a strong and coherent service network in all government PRO services in Qatar. Our The firm’s three Qatar based founders, world. accommodation provision and management Qatar to ensure good client communication. services. objective is to handle our clients’ needs while with extensive experience in both local and As every company requires legislation Many investors who are not familiar with guaranteeing full compliance, information, international services, are fully acquainted in many of their operations, mainly PRO As Mohammed Aslam, the president the region might find the processing of and transparency of all PRO services. with all the necessary processes and services, making sure that processes are of Signature comments: “The decision government documents cumbersome and legalities of PRO services. handled appropriately and in a timely manner to expand our footprint in Qatar has face communication problems with local