Aya Tohami

I collaborate with Ecosolis, a global sustainability consultancy and ESG service provider, to create educational and impactful copy that helps businesses integrate ESG principles into their communication. From thought leadership to reliable news reporting, my writing supports Ecosolis in guiding clients toward action-driven, accessible sustainability leadership, and the results speak for themselves: +326.7% new followers, +1,647.7% post impressions, and +821.4% page visitor growth, all within one week. Qatar’s Central Bank Launches New Sustainable Finance Framework On April 20, 2025, Qatar Central Bank (QCB) unveiled its Sustainable Finance Framework, an ambitious blueprint designed to integrate #ESG principles into the heart of Qatar’s financial sector. This move directly supports Qatar National Vision 2030 and aligns with the country's Third Financial Sector Strategic Plan, marking a clear shift from reliance on oil-driven growth to a diversified approach focused on sustainability-backed investments. ​ As of 2025, 77% of CEOs in Qatar are expected to have initiated climate-friendly investments over the past year, surpassing the Middle East average of 66%, according to PwC. Here’s a closer look at the framework’s key components: 1)​ Dual Focus on Sustainable and Sustainability-Linked Finance The framework applies to both project-based green and social financing and performance-linked financial instruments, ensuring that borrowers commit to measurable, science-based #sustainability targets. 2)​ Islamic Finance Integration Sharia-compliant financial products, such as green Sukuk, are explicitly welcomed, offering global and regional investors a principled route to align faith-based investments with #ESG goals. 3)​ Mandatory Transparency and Verification Annual disclosures, third-party audits, and dedicated tracking of proceeds will become standard, reducing the risk of greenwashing and increasing investor confidence. 4)​ Global Standards, Regional Relevance QCB’s framework adopts globally recognized standards like the Loan Market Association’s Green Loan Principles while tailoring requirements for local markets, especially through its integration with Qatar’s National Environment and #Climate Change Strategy. 5)​ A Strong Focus on Measurable Impact Performance metrics must be benchmarked against international targets such as the Paris Agreement, while economic incentives—including interest rate adjustments (margin ratchets)—reward or penalize borrowers based on actual #sustainability performance. Qatar's financial sector is positioning itself as a regional leader in #sustainable finance, particularly within the Islamic market. If you're an investor, developer, or multinational, this framework signals clear regulatory expectations: transparency, accountability, and measurable ESG outcomes will define future capital flows in Qatar. Qatar's ambition extends beyond this initial framework, signaling a commitment to ongoing improvement and adaptability in the sustainable finance landscape. The framework's phased roadmap, from finalizing the taxonomy to scaling the market, shows that Qatar is setting the stage for both national impact and global alignment, including harmonization with the EU's Sustainable Finance Taxonomy. At Ecosolis, we assist businesses in translating evolving ESG frameworks like that of Qatar’s into actionable strategies that meet both compliance and investor expectations. Whether you operate locally or globally, adapting to these shifts is essential for achieving sustainable, future-proof growth.​ Follow us for more updates in the world of #ESG. Simplification Omnibus Proposal: A Shift in Europe's Sustainability Landscape? On March 15, the European Commission unveiled its Simplification Omnibus proposal, part of the EU’s drive to cut red tape and reduce reporting burdens on businesses operating within Europe’s sustainability framework. While the stated goal is simplification, this move has raised serious questions across the #sustainability community about its potential to hinder progress on #climate initiatives and erode public trust in corporate hashtag#accountability. It introduces amendments that would scale back elements of two major EU directives: the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). The Omnibus Proposal now seeks to: ●​ Delay Implementation: The application dates for the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) have been postponed, granting companies additional time to prepare for compliance. ●​ Reduce Scope: The threshold for CSRD applicability has been raised, significantly decreasing the number of companies required to report on hashtag#sustainability metrics. ●​ Simplified Due Diligence: Under the revised CSDDD, due diligence obligations are now limited to direct (Tier 1) suppliers, easing the compliance process for many businesses. The Commission argues that businesses, especially smaller ones, struggle with the pace of new regulatory demands—while they assert that this flexibility will preserve Europe's competitiveness, it raises serious questions about alignment with sustainability objectives. However, this shift has raised concerns among civil society, investors, and sustainability leaders, who fear it may weaken the EU's climate and human rights ambitions. Organizations like the European Coalition for Corporate Justice (ECCJ) have openly criticized the move, warning it could weaken both corporate accountability and market integrity. Implications for Your Business: If you operate in the #EU or with EU-based partners, these adjustments may temporarily ease compliance pressures. However, for companies dedicated to sustainable growth, the challenge remains; long-term expectations from investors, customers, and regulators remain the same: clear, measurable ESG performance is the benchmark for trust and resilience. At #Ecosolis, we are committed to keeping you updated about regulatory changes and assisting you in navigating the evolving sustainability landscape. Navigating the fine print of EU regulations? We’re here to help. Contact us today to discuss how your business can stay aligned and ready for the future, regardless of policy changes. Sustainable Finance: The Future of Money Is Green What is sustainable finance?​ Put simply, sustainable finance is about making financial decisions that support a better future for people and the planet. It means investing in businesses, projects, and policies that are good for the environment and society while still being profitable.​ In other words, it’s the practice of directing money—from investors, banks, or governments—toward projects and businesses with a positive environmental and social impact while making financial sense. It’s about balancing profit with responsibility: funding businesses that reduce carbon emissions, protecting workers' rights, and following ethical business practices. Sustainable finance is shifting how money moves in the world. Instead of funding industries that harm the planet and widen inequality, it directs capital toward businesses and projects that create long-term value for investors, society, and the environment. In Q3 2023 alone, global green, social, and sustainability (GSS+) bond and loan issuances reached a staggering $323 billion. That’s billions flowing into renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and businesses that prioritize ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. ​ Why does sustainable finance matter?​ 1)​ Markets are shifting. Investors are prioritizing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors, not just because it’s ethical—but because it makes financial sense. Sustainable companies are proving more resilient and profitable over time.​ 2)​ Policy isn’t optional. Governments worldwide are introducing stricter sustainability regulations, meaning businesses that don't integrate ESG considerations may soon find themselves at a disadvantage. For instance, the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) will make ESG reporting mandatory for around 50,000 companies, including thousands headquartered outside the EU.​ 3)​ The planet is a financial risk. Climate change, resource depletion, and environmental disasters are no longer distant threats—they have real economic consequences. Industries that fail to adapt are at risk of disruption, rising costs, and regulatory challenges. Companies that align with ESG principles aren’t just meeting regulations, they’re securing real, long-term growth, attracting investors, and staying competitive. But making sense of evolving policies, investment opportunities, and financial risks isn’t always straightforward and can be overwhelming. ​ That’s where we come in: Ecosolis helps businesses integrate sustainability into their financial strategies, ensuring they’re not just prepared for the future but positioned to lead it.​ Follow us for more insights into the world of #sustainability, or drop us a message to explore sustainable finance solutions designed for your business.​ SBTi’s New Net-Zero Standard: What It Means for Businesses On March 18, the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) published the draft of its Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2.0, enhancing validation and accountability for corporate climate action. SBTi is the globally recognized authority on science-based #climate targets, ensuring corporate net-zero commitments align with the latest climate science. SBTi's credibility is reinforced by its rigorous validation process, which has led to over 10,000 companies committing to science-based targets, with more than 7,100 approved as of early 2023. This framework ensures that companies meet ambitious targets with measurable progress. The full draft can be accessed here. Here are the most important updates: 1.​ Full-Cycle Accountability: Instead of just declaring net-zero goals, businesses must now report progress regularly and adjust targets if they fall short. A new validation process will check both initial commitments and real-world progress. 2.​ More Precise Emissions Targets: Companies must now set separate targets for direct emissions (Scope 1) and purchased energy (Scope 2), while Scope 3 targets prioritize the most material emissions sources rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. 3.​ Carbon Removals & Beyond Value Chain Mitigation (BVCM): Businesses can gain recognition for investing in reputable carbon credits—but only after they have reduced emissions as much as possible. 4.​ Stronger Data & Transparency: Companies in high-income regions must obtain third-party assurance from credible organizations on their emissions data, which adds an additional layer of scrutiny and makes greenwashing significantly harder. 5.​ Stricter Requirements Based on Company Size: Larger firms in high-income regions will face shorter validation timelines compared to smaller businesses in emerging markets, ensuring a fair but firm approach. 6.​ Clear Transition Planning & Public Commitment: Companies must now formally declare their net-zero commitments and publish detailed transition plans, providing a transparent roadmap for decarbonization. With these updates, SBTi is significantly reinforcing the necessity for science-based, verifiable climate action, transforming corporate accountability into an integral component of #sustainable business practices. Companies can no longer rely on pledges alone—progress must be proven. What Does This Mean for Your Business? If your company is working toward net-zero, these updates will require a more structured, data-driven approach to emissions reductions. Target-setting alone is insufficient; proving progress and securing validations are now essential. Businesses with global supply chains now need to rethink how they address Scope 3 emissions, as the framework increasingly prioritizes the most material sources. Navigating these changes can be complex, but proactive adaptation to the new requirements will not only ensure compliance,it will also strengthen trust with investors, customers, and stakeholders. At #Ecosolis, we specialize in guiding businesses through the complexities of evolving #ESG standards. Need guidance? Reach out today to explore how aligning with the new SBTi framework can not only ensure compliance but also position your business as a leader in #sustainability. Women Driving Sustainable Investment: A Force for Change This International Women’s Day, we honor women's transformative impact in creating a sustainable tomorrow—especially in the world of finance and investment.​ As more women take an active role in financial decision-making, they are steering capital toward sustainability at an extraordinary rate. ​ A UBS study found that 71% of women consider #sustainability in their investments, compared to 58% of men. This signals a significant shift where women are the driving force behind sustainable finance. At #Ecosolis, we see this leadership firsthand. We are proud to be led by Yasmin Shokri, a recognized leader in #sustainableinvestment across the MENA region. Her visionary leadership drives our commitment to Green ROI—delivering financial excellence while preserving environmental integrity. To all the incredible women pioneering sustainable change: Your decisions, commitment, and leadership are crafting a world where financial success and sustainability thrive together. #InternationalWomensDay #Sustainability #SustainableInvestment #WomenInFinance #Ecosolis