‘EEG moving ahead to promote culture of recycling in UAE’

Dubai / WAM

Habiba Al Marashi, Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group confirmed that the group is moving ahead in implanting a culture of recycling in the UAE community to inculcate pro-environmental attitude and behaviour so that it becomes a part of their daily routine and personality.
With the intention to expand its programmes the group aims to involve the various segments of society for a common goal of protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. The awarding ceremony witnessed the efforts of the participants towards the eight campaigns by collecting approximately 1,643,743 kg of waste in 2015.
Habiba shared that these numbers equate to 26,000 Kg of aluminium cans, 1,217,646 kg of paper, 92,693 kgs of plastic, 297,805 kgs of glass, 4,534 kgs of batteries and 5,065 kgs of beverage cartons. The amount of waste collected in 2015 through these eight campaigns helped mitigate 5,353.43 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, saved 39,342mn BTU of energy, saved 9,184 m3 of landfill space, saved 28,330 trees from being felled and saved 34,769 gallons of oil.
This came during the 19th Annual Awarding ceremony to commemorate the World Environment Day at the Ajman Museum that felicitated the participants and winners of the various waste management and art programmes in an event that attracted over 250 attendees including noted dignitaries from the government and private sector. A total of 70 Recycling Awards and 27 Art Awards were
conferred on the day.
Al Marashi, in her opening remarks, said, “Year on year, we have used this platform to spread the message of environmental responsibility, and brought to light the champions whose commendable efforts have not just made our programmes successful, but have made a big difference as well. The outstanding outcomes of our various recycling programmes, are a testament of the sheer passion, hard work and the commitment of these green champions, where we aim to touch the psyche of people and get them to imbibe the concept of recycling to become routine in their daily lives through our various programs. ”
She added, “At EEG we believe that the environmental movement needs Green Leaders and Champions. To develop these future leaders, we encourage them to inculcate pro-environmental attitude and behaviour so that it becomes a part of their personality It gives me great pride in saying that over the years we have managed to create numerous leaders which have become an inspiration for others to dream more, learn more and do more for the betterment of the environment.”
This event is organised in association with Ajman Tourism Development Department. Faisal Al Nuaimi, General Manager of ATDD, said, “We are honoured to be part of EEG’s ongoing campaign on environment protection and sustainable development. As part of the Vision of the Emirate of Ajman in building a green economy, we join the rest of the world in celebrating World Environment Day aimed at raising awareness about protecting and preserving our planet Earth. We also commend the great leaders of the UAE for their relentless effort in promoting sustainability in all industry.
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The big number of participants who made a sustainable contribution in various waste management and art programs of EEG indicate that we are all conscious of the well-being of our planet, therefore, we should work together to ensure that our environment is fully protected for the next and
future generation.”