Earth Day to increase public plastic awareness

Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak

Golf today, Staff reporter

Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized the importance of Earth Day as an important platform for raising awareness on reducing plastic use in society and economic sectors, thereby driving the UAE’s transition to a circular economy is strengthened.

Al Dahak said: “The theme of this year’s Earth Day, ‘Planet vs. Plastic’, raises awareness about the growing problem of plastic pollution in oceans, rivers and the environment, which poses a direct threat to human life and ecosystems. Over the past twenty years, global production of plastic waste has doubled. The UAE has been proactive in tackling this problem, enacting laws to restrict single-use plastic products and implementing policies to significantly reduce plastic pollution.”

She highlighted the UAE’s Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031, aimed at promoting sustainable management and optimal use of natural resources. By adopting innovative consumption and production methods, the UAE aims to protect the well-being of both current and future generations. She highlighted that the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is working with various federal and government agencies through the UAE Circular Economy Council to increase private sector involvement in promoting the circular economy. The Council also aims to strengthen the ‘Scale 360’ initiative, of which the UAE is the first signatory globally. She also outlined the reduction of the import, production and use of plastic as important objectives for the Council and the Ministry in the coming years.

Al Dahak concluded: “Increasing public awareness about responsible plastic use is fundamental to reducing plastic pollution. It is part of our holistic approach to raising environmental awareness and promoting environmentally friendly practices throughout society. This effort is critical in supporting the Ministry and related entities to achieve climate and environmental sustainability goals and pave the way for a resilient future for the UAE.”

In another development, Umm Al Emarat Park is joining forces with Vine Communities to host an engaging, tailor-made recycling workshop for children, in celebration of Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22.

The workshop, scheduled for Sunday, April 21 in the Little Farm area of ​​the park, aimed to instill an in-depth understanding of environmental conservation.

This workshop was open to children aged 7 and over and would provide an immersive and educational experience focusing on the importance of recycling and sustainability. Participants expect an interactive session full of engaging activities and insightful discussions.