The Resource Efficiency sub-programme in West Asia provides services to achieve the transition to sustainable development through multiple pathways, including inclusive green economy, green finance, sustainable trade and the adoption of sustainable consumption and production patterns. Through its focus on Inclusive Green Economies, the programme pays specific attention to the social dimensions of sustainable development and green economy. Fostering equality, equal participation and the creation of decent jobs are central to human well-being. Sustainable lifestyles and consumption patterns are also essential in this regard.
Domestic material consumption per capita in the West Asia region is high and increased by over 60 per cent from 1990 to 2015, coming close to the global average. Domestic material consumption per capita is particularly high in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) subregion, at 2.5 to 3 times the global average, reflecting higher incomes and consumption rates. The material footprint is also higher in GCC countries. Per capita, energy consumption in the region increased by close to 70 per cent from 1990 to 2014, outstripping rapid population growth. Energy consumption in GCC countries was very high, at close to four times the global average. Energy subsidies in the region are quite significant at around 7.3 per cent of GDP in 2017, well above the global average of 6.5 per cent. Levels are particularly high in the GCC subregion, up to 98 per cent in Saudi Arabia.
In a region suffering from water scarcity, domestic water consumption per capita has declined marginally over the past decade but was slightly higher than the global average in 2014. The proportion of people serviced by municipal waste collection ranges from 100 per cent in three GCC countries to 67 percent in Iraq and only 19 per cent in Yemen.
Core functions under resource efficiency and sustainable consumption and production ensure decisions of the UN Environment Assembly including the programme of work are effectively implemented in the region, while considering regional concerns/priorities. Accordingly, three key objectives are identified to provide the services in the region during 2020-2023 period:
- Support countries in their transition to green economy and sustainable trade, and adoption of sustainable consumption and production patterns at all levels
- Contribute to an urban paradigm shift in the way cities are planned, financed, developed and managed, and thereby help implement the New Urban Agenda, the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals
- Support the adoption of sustainable lifestyles and sustainable consumption patterns
Key programme and initiatives
GO4SDGs initiative offers ‘menu of services’ to build back better and green
