Under the joint patronage of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Ministry of Environment, a cooperation protocol was signed between the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency and the museum’s management to support GEM’s transformation into Egypt’s first carbon-neutral, environmentally friendly museum.
The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Sherif Fathy, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, and Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment. The protocol was signed by Dr. Ali Abou Sena, CEO of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, and Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim, CEO of the Grand Egyptian Museum.
A Cultural Icon Goes Green
Speaking at the event, Minister Sherif Fathy emphasized that the protocol marks a pivotal collaboration between Egypt’s key ministries in the pursuit of environmental sustainability. He noted that the Grand Egyptian Museum — one of the largest and most important archaeological museums in the world — was designed with environmental considerations from the ground up, earning green building certification for its sustainable design and operations.
Minister Fathy highlighted that the GEM is not only a monumental cultural and historical site but will also stand as a regional model for environmental responsibility. As Egypt continues to integrate environmental awareness across sectors, this initiative aligns with the country’s broader vision for sustainable development, particularly within tourism and heritage.
The protocol sets out a framework for the museum to adopt eco-friendly practices, including the use of sustainable tools and supplies throughout its operations. In addition, the museum will begin showcasing environmental content, including awareness materials from the Ministry of Environment, educational films about Egypt’s nature reserves, and biodiversity-themed exhibits. These efforts are part of a broader plan to promote eco-tourism and environmental education among museum visitors.
Carbon Neutral by Design
Dr. Manal Awad affirmed that the collaboration reflects the ministry’s strategic efforts to build partnerships that serve the national sustainable development agenda. She confirmed that the aim is to assist the museum in achieving carbon neutrality during its trial operational phase (2023–2024), the official inauguration, and the first full year of operation in 2025.
Dr. Awad emphasized that the environmental protocol also aims to raise public awareness about environmental issues. This includes monitoring air and noise pollution levels in and around the museum via a real-time environmental monitoring station, in addition to implementing green landscaping around the GEM as part of the national “100 Million Trees” initiative launched by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.
According to the protocol, the Environmental Affairs Agency will develop scientific and educational content for environmental exhibits and activities within the museum. The agency will also provide technical assistance for awareness campaigns and organize capacity-building programs focused on environmental education and sustainable practices.
Environmental Governance in Heritage Spaces
Dr. Awad stressed the importance of fostering a healthy, pollution-free environment by integrating environmental considerations into all sectors of the Egyptian state. She pointed to the ministry’s approach of inter-ministerial coordination as essential for achieving national environmental goals and enhancing overall quality of life for Egyptian citizens.
As part of the agreement, both parties have agreed to form a joint technical committee to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the protocol. The committee will convene quarterly — or as needed — to assess progress and address any challenges. It will have the authority to consult relevant administrative bodies and will submit regular reports to the leadership of both the museum and the environment agency.
A Model for the Region
The partnership reinforces Egypt’s positioning as a regional leader in eco-conscious tourism and cultural preservation. By making sustainability a core part of its identity, the Grand Egyptian Museum is set to become the first carbon-neutral museum in the region, merging ancient heritage with modern environmental innovation.
The signing ceremony was attended by a number of senior officials, including Eng. Sherif Abdel Rahim, Assistant Minister for Climate Policy; Dr. Shaimaa Eid, Head of Occupational Safety and Environmental Protection at the GEM; Sohad Taher, Head of the Central Department for Climate Change and International Cooperation; Dr. Ayman El-Rifai, Director of Emissions Reduction and Carbon Markets; and Eng. Mohamed Mostafa, Director of Strategies at the Ministry of Environment.
