The Gulf Time Newspaper One of the finest business newspapers in the UAE brought to you by our professional writers and editors.
BY Salmaan Mohammed
The author is Founder & CEO | Building Platable: A Food Tech Solution for Surplus Food | Sustainability
GULF TIME
Dubai is a city that doesn’t do things halfway. Whether it’s luxury, innovation, or ambition, it goes big. But in the middle of all this sparkle, there’s a quieter revolution taking place—one that’s just as bold: the movement toward sustainable living.
With the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy and a national target to halve food waste by 2030, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a priority—and surprisingly easy to integrate into everyday life.
The Hidden Cost of Waste
Nearly 38% of food prepared daily in the UAE ends up in the bin. That’s not just a waste of money; it’s a hit to both the environment and the economy.
To tackle this, a variety of sustainable food initiatives have emerged. Food Sustainability Apps help connect people to surplus meals from restaurants, providing affordable options while reducing waste. Globally, such platforms have helped save tonnes of food waste and emissions.
Other community-driven solutions also make an impact. Social fridge initiatives allow residents to donate surplus meals to those in need, while organizations like the UAE Food Bank collect and distribute edible food that would otherwise be discarded.
Sustainable living in Dubai doesn’t have to be expensive or inconvenient. In fact, it can be smarter and more fulfilling.
Small Swaps, Big Impact
Sustainability goes well beyond food. Here are a few simple swaps that can make a real difference:
– Getting around: Opt for the Metro, carpool, electric vehicles, or even e-scooters to reduce emissions.
– Fashion: Instead of over-shopping, consider renting outfits via platforms like Best Kept Shared or swapping through Sizters App.
– Home & Beauty: Use refillable products, choose eco-friendly or local brands, and browse pre-loved furniture on sites like dubizzle.
– Food Responsibility: Support surplus food apps, contribute to social fridges, or participate in UAE Food Bank programs to reduce waste.
Rethinking, Not Restricting
Sustainable living isn’t about restriction—it’s about making smarter, more conscious choices. Especially in a city built on innovation and bold ideas, living green should be part of the lifestyle.
Every saved meal, reused outfit, and refillable bottle adds up. These small actions create a ripple effect—one that makes sustainability not only practical but also powerful.
In a city racing toward the future, the next big luxury might just be living responsibly. Because there’s nothing more modern than a mindset that values the planet.