By Rafiq Vayani
DUBAI: Under the esteemed patronage and presence of H.H. Engr. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Civil Aviation Authority, Member of the Executive Council of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, and Honorary Member of the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), the organisation proudly celebrated the 29th Cycle of the Emirates Recycling Awards in conjunction with World Environment Day 2026, held under the global theme: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
The prestigious ceremony brought together a distinguished gathering of government entities, corporate leaders, academic institutions, diplomatic representatives, media, families, and civil society, reinforcing the UAE’s collective commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable development.
H.H. Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi played a pivotal role in the award presentation ceremony, joining Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi in presenting awards and certificates of recognition to winners and participants across all categories. This gracious gesture reflected His Highness’s steadfast support for environmental and community initiatives, as well as his continued efforts to encourage all segments of society to embrace sustainable practices. His esteemed presence and patronage of the event further underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration in advancing the UAE’s environmental agenda and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and collective action towards a more sustainable future.
In her opening address, EEG Co-Founder and Chairperson, Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, highlighted the urgency of climate action in today’s global context. She stated, we are living in a time where environmental responsibility can no longer be delayed. The signals from our planet are clear, and the need for action is immediate. The Emirates Recycling Awards stand as a reminder that sustainability is not an option—it is a shared obligation. Through collective effort, we can drive meaningful change and build a more resilient and sustainable future.”
She further emphasised the significance of 2026 being declared the Year of Family in the UAE, noting that sustainability begins at the household level.
“Just as we nurture and protect our families, we must extend that same care to our environment. The choices we make today will define the future we leave behind. True sustainability is built on shared values, responsibility, and collective action.”
Despite the ongoing global and regional challenges, the success of this year’s Awards demonstrates the resilience and commitment of stakeholders across sectors. EEG reaffirmed that sustainability efforts must continue uninterrupted, even in times of uncertainty, as they are fundamental to long-term environmental and economic stability.
The Emirates Recycling Awards remain one of EEG’s flagship initiatives, recognising outstanding contributions towards waste diversion, resource conservation, and circular economy practices. Through its eight recycling campaigns, EEG continues to drive measurable environmental impact across the UAE.
As of 2025, EEG’s recycling programmes have achieved significant environmental benefits, including the reduction of 6,007 metric tons of CO₂ emissions, conservation of 46,387 billion BTU of energy, preservation of 11,215 cubic meters of landfill space, saving of 28,569 trees, and conservation of 16,752 gallons of gasoline. In addition, participants successfully planted 2,266 trees, further contributing to climate action and environmental restoration efforts.
These included:
Aluminum Cans: 38,596 kg
Paper: 1,314,741 kg
Printer Toners: 3,081 pcs
Plastic: 128,458 kg
Glass Bottles: 211,926 kg
Mobile Phones: 4,159 pcs
E-waste: 22,529 kg
Scrap Metals: 20,838 kg
These results underscore the tangible impact of collective action and the strong collaboration between individuals, institutions, and organisations across the UAE.
Winners in Each Category:
Aluminum Cans Collection:
Academic: Higher College of Technology Fujairah- Faseel Campus
Individual/Family: Ibrahim Pasha
Company/Institution: Emirates Flight Catering
Paper Collection:
Academic: Delhi Private School, Sharjah
Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
Company/Institution: Design Infinity LLC
Toner Cartridges Collection:
Individual/Family: Saeed Humaid Alshamsi
Company/Institution: Novotel & Ibis World Trade Centre, Ibis One Centre Hotel Dubai
Plastic Collection:
Academic: Our Own High School, Dubai
Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
Company/Institution: Wasl Properties LLC
Glass Bottles Collection:
Academic: Sheikha Hissa Bint Saqr Private School
Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
Company/Institution: Dubai Duty Free
Mobile Phones Collection:
Academic: Our Own High School, Dubai
Individual/Family: Shamma Humaid Alshamsi
Company/Institution: Dubai Public Prosecution
E-Waste Collection:
Individual/Family: Mirana Gabin Mathew
Company/Institution: Two Season Hotel & Apartments
Scrap Metals Collection:
Academic: Delhi Private School, Dubai
Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
Company/Institution: Citibank
Dr. Al Mar’ashi extended her sincere appreciation to all sponsors and partners who contributed to the success of the event, particularly in light of the current global and regional challenges.
“In times of uncertainty, the decision to continue supporting sustainability initiatives reflects true leadership and responsibility. We are deeply grateful to our partners for standing with us and reinforcing the importance of continuing this work.”
Silver Sponsor:
McDonald’s UAE
Event Host: SEE Institute
In-Kind Sponsors:
Ariston
Brother International
Dabur
ITL Cosmos
EEG also acknowledged the hospitality partners who generously contributed vouchers for the award winners.
In her concluding remarks, Dr. Al Mar’ashi called upon all sectors of society to continue embedding sustainability into everyday practices.
“Let us be guided by nature, act with urgency for the climate, and work collectively towards securing a sustainable future. Every effort matters, and together, we have the power to create lasting impact.”
The 29th Cycle of the Emirates Recycling Awards stands as a testament to EEG’s enduring commitment to environmental stewardship and its continued role in mobilising communities towards a circular and sustainable future.
