Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi Wins Gold at MEWAR Awards 2024

Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has been awarded the Gold Award in the Best Waste Diversion/Reduction Initiative (Government Sector) category at the 6th Middle East Waste & Recycling (MEWAR) Awards 2024. This prestigious award highlights the agency’s continuous efforts to reduce and divert waste in Abu Dhabi and showcases its dedication to sustainability. It also emphasizes how EAD’s innovative approach to waste management is helping position the emirate as a regional leader in environmental responsibility.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel  

The MEWAR Awards, one of the most important sustainability events in the Middle East, recognize the best practices in waste management, recycling, and resource recovery. The 6th edition of the awards brought together experts and leaders in the field to celebrate transformative initiatives that tackle environmental challenges in both the public and private sectors. EAD was honored for its contribution to making Abu Dhabi a cleaner and greener place.

EAD’s award-winning work is part of its goal to achieve net-zero waste by 2041, a target outlined in the Abu Dhabi Waste Management Strategy. This strategy includes several innovative projects and initiatives aimed at reducing waste, increasing recycling, and promoting a circular economy. The agency’s efforts are aligned with global sustainability standards and federal and local environmental targets, demonstrating EAD’s leadership in waste management.

Faisal Al Hammadi, Executive Director of the Environmental Quality Sector at EAD, shared his pride in the recognition: “We are honored to receive this recognition for our waste management efforts. It reflects the vision of Abu Dhabi's leadership, whose support has been vital in shaping our sustainability journey. With their guidance, we have been able to implement policies and strategies that tackle waste management challenges while promoting environmental responsibility. This achievement motivates us to continue working toward a cleaner future for Abu Dhabi.”

Salem Mubarak Al Breiki, Division Director of Waste Management at EAD, also expressed his pride: “This award shows Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in waste management. Through strategic initiatives and advanced projects, EAD is creating a new model in Abu Dhabi that not only reduces waste but also ensures a more sustainable future for our communities. We are proud to lead this effort and be recognized by such a respected platform.”

In its mission to improve waste management, EAD has been reviewing and updating regulatory measures to ensure the system is ready for future challenges. These regulations support the circular economy and promote effective waste management. EAD has already developed important regulations, including the Integrated Waste Management Regulation and Waste Classification System, which are helping to improve waste practices in the emirate.

The judges of the MEWAR Awards also praised EAD’s innovative approach and long-term sustainability plan. This includes building new waste treatment facilities, creating Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs), and developing waste-to-energy projects. EAD is working to close all landfills by 2026 and replace them with more sustainable sanitary landfills. The agency’s efforts are guided by data and research, ensuring that the initiatives will have a lasting and meaningful impact.

One of EAD's successful initiatives is its waste segregation scheme, which was tested in high-rise buildings. This project has provided valuable insights and will help expand waste diversion efforts in the future. Additionally, EAD has created a plan for six incentive programs designed to promote the circular economy. These programs reward people for reducing waste and increasing recycling, further supporting the agency’s commitment to sustainability.

Through its dedication and innovative work, EAD continues to lead the way in waste management and sustainability, setting an example for others to follow.