Doha: Qatar-based Global Accreditation Bureau (GAB) has officially become a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) Signatory of the Asia Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (APAC) for the accreditation of Validation and Verification Bodies (VVBs) for Greenhouse Gases (GHG). This milestone positions GAB as a key enabler in the MENA region for climate accountability and sustainability practices aligned with international standards.
According to Qatar News Agency, becoming an MRA signatory signifies that GAB's accreditation processes for GHG VVBs have been rigorously evaluated and deemed equivalent to those of other recognized accreditation bodies within APAC. This is particularly significant given the standing of APAC as a highly respected and influential regional cooperation of accreditation bodies in the Asia Pacific region.
This development follows GAB's earlier success in 2024, when it became an MRA Signatory of both the Asia Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (APAC) and the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) for accreditation of Management System Certification Bodies. GAB's elevated status not only enhances its international recognition but also uniquely positions it as the first and only Accreditation Body Member in the MENA region to be part of APAC MRA group with a scope of GHG validation and verification.
Speaking about the latest milestone, Dr. Yousef Alhorr, Founding Chairman of GAB, emphasized the significance of this achievement. By becoming APAC's MRA Signatory for the accreditation of GHG validation and verification bodies, GAB is addressing the increasing demand for robust and transparent GHG accounting, aligning with international frameworks. By ensuring that VVBs accredited by GAB operate under a rigorous, internationally recognized accreditation framework, GAB is steadily progressing towards its goal of empowering stakeholders in the MENA region and other neighboring countries.
GAB's extended MRA signatory status will significantly benefit organizations and VVBs operating within the MENA region and neighboring countries. It will provide them with easier access to internationally recognized accreditation services for GHG validation and verification. GHG reports originating from VVBs accredited by GAB will gain greater acceptance within international markets that acknowledge the APAC MRA, easing trade barriers and enhancing market access for organizations relying on these verified reports.
Ultimately, GAB's MRA status will empower organizations to accurately measure, report, and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to broader global sustainability objectives and climate action initiatives within the region. GAB's extended MRA signatory status will amplify its existing portfolio and influence within the accreditation landscape, with many other applicant bodies currently undergoing rigorous review at various stages of GHG-related accreditation, suggesting a substantial increase in GAB's accredited partners.