Arab HOBALLAH has over 40 years of experience promoting Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) through systemic thinking, multistakeholder partnerships, and global initiatives. He has held key roles across international organizations, including the United Nations and EU-led programs. Currently, Arab serves as Senior SCP Expert for the EU SWITCH-Asia Policy Support Component and as Executive Director of SEED “Promoting entrepreneurship for sustainable development”, since 2023 and 2021, respectively.
From 2017 to 2021, Arab led the EU SWITCH-Asia SCP Facility, covering 24 countries in Asia. During his tenure, he strengthened SCP policies, fostered regional collaboration, and initiated impactful studies on sustainable textiles, plastics, and buildings. As United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Chief of Sustainable Consumption and Production (2005–2016), he mainstreamed SCP at the global level. Notable achievements include elevating SCP in UN and Government strategies, establishing the UN International Resource Panel (IRP) and the 10 Year Framework of Programmes (10YFP) for SCP, and SDG12, establishment of the Mediterranean Commission for Sustainable Development, launching the Sustainable Building and Climate Initiative (SBCI).
Previously, Arab held senior roles as Deputy Coordinator with UNEP’s Mediterranean Action Plan and the Blue Plan. He has collaborated extensively with global organizations, including ICLEI, C40, and UNWTO and others, emphasizing resource efficiency, resilience, and sustainability.
A dedicated advocate for SMEs, Arab has demonstrated their critical role in advancing sustainable and circular economies. His leadership has inspired innovation, capacity building, and inclusive governance approaches worldwide.
A global citizen born in Lebanon and raised in Senegal, Arab holds a PhD in Economic Development, along with degrees in Law, International Relations, and Systemic Analysis. Fluent in French, English, Spanish, and Arabic, he brings a deep understanding of diverse cultures and contexts to his work.
Arab has been collaborating with ENERGIES 2050 since its inception.