The UAE and GCC are undergoing a major transformation in sustainability. National agendas like the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 are pushing companies to align with global standards, expand transparency, and build low-carbon business models.

Global demand for green talent is growing at 7.7 per cent annually. Supply is growing at 4.3 per cent. The gap is widening. For a region investing at scale in clean energy, sustainable infrastructure, and economic diversification, the workforce question is not peripheral to transition planning. It is central to whether transitions actually happen.

We spoke to Bhaarat Verma, an independent sustainability consultant whose work moves fluidly across ESG strategy, responsible investment, regulatory reporting, and brand communication.