Abu Dhabi Mobility and Abu Dhabi Maritime have launched a new tool aimed at enhancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices within the maritime sector. The MARSDNA tool, developed by Maqta Technologies Group, provides businesses—ranging from shipping companies to port operators—with comprehensive resources to evaluate and improve their sustainability strategies.

"We are proud to introduce MARSDNA, a pioneering tool with the potential to revolutionize ESG initiatives in our sector," said Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability Officer at AD Ports Group. He emphasized that the tool empowers local organizations by providing them with the necessary resources and strategic framework to make meaningful sustainability gains.

How MARSDNA Works?

To utilize MARSDNA, businesses must complete an online questionnaire, which helps the tool assess their current ESG status. It uses established international standards such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and metrics from the International Maritime Organization. Based on the evaluation, MARSDNA recommends steps to enhance their sustainability practices, enabling organizations to align with global standards.

The tool is designed to support organizations of all sizes, but its special focus is on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may lack the resources to implement effective sustainability strategies.

Target Areas for ESG Improvement

In its first phase, MARSDNA targets five key sectors within the maritime industry:

Shipping companies
Port and terminal operators
Freight forwarders and cargo beneficiaries
Maritime and offshore services
Marine operators

Strengthening Abu Dhabi's Maritime Leadership

The launch of MARSDNA is a significant step in Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to ESG goals and sustainability within the maritime industry. Abu Dhabi Mobility highlighted that this tool will contribute to the broader efforts of strengthening sustainability practices in the region, making it a global leader in maritime sustainability.

"MARSDNA is a powerful driver for progress, providing companies with specialized guidance to help them develop sustainable strategies aligned with the best environmental and social practices," the entity stated.