Honeywell, a global technology and manufacturing leader, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United Nations (UN) Environment to help promote sustainable economic development and raise awareness on the importance of increasing energy efficiency in the region.

The signing took place at Honeywell’s regional headquarters in Dubai, UAE, and was completed by Erik Solheim, executive director, UN Environment; and Norm Gilsdorf, president, Honeywell High Growth Regions, Middle East, Russia, Turkey, and Central Asia.

As part of the agreement the two entities will support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 and 13, which aim to provide affordable and clean energy for all, and to take action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

In addition, the MoU will focus on experience-sharing and programmes to build capacity and enhance the contribution of the private sector in protecting the environment.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Solheim said: “By working with Honeywell and others in the private sector, together we can take urgent action to combat climate change while delivering affordable and clean energy for all,” he said.

Gilsdorf said: “At our company, we are blending physical products with software solutions to connect people and businesses to the information they need to be more efficient and more productive every day.”

Julien Soulet, vice president and general manager for Honeywell Fluorine Products EMEA, said: “We are committed to developing technologies and solutions that help our customers and stakeholders become environmentally friendlier, safer and more sustainable.”

“This strategic partnership with UN Environment allows us to support the Middle East region’s push to phase out ozone-depleting substances, like hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), as well as high-global-warming-potential (high-GWP) substances such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs),” he added.