ABSTRACT
Humanity stands at a defining moment in history as the unprecedented level of population growth and increased rate of economic production, along with unsustainable consumption pattern, place severe stress on the capacities of the ecosystem. Green economy, as an alternative paradigm of contemporary developmental discourse, balances human activities, social conditions, and environmental sustainability. The governance framework needs to be strengthened to implement sustainable development policies and ensure transition to a green economy for the betterment of people and the region. The major governance challenge facing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries is how to balance the increasing competition from different water users when nearly 80 per cent of water is being used for agriculture. The agriculture sector is characterised by the low irrigation efficiency of 30–45 percent and the cultivation of water-intensive crops. Energy policies under the green economy regime call for introduction of energy-saving technologies in large buildings, transportation, and industries.
