UAE launches 'Waste-free Schools' project

The UAE Council for Environmental and Municipal Work held its second meeting, which saw the roll-out of the Waste-free Schools project that aims to promote the adoption of circular economy principles in schools.

The meeting was chaired by Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment.

Its agenda also featured discussions of several key topics, including the environmental indicators of the “We The UAE 2031” vision and national plan, the preparedness of municipal authorities for the rainy season, and the directions of the UAE General Environmental Policy.

Held at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) headquarters in Dubai, the meeting convened the Council’s members for the second time since the UAE Cabinet ratified the resolution for the body’s creation in May 2022.

Almheiri said, “Our wise leadership’s continued support of environmental stewardship has considerably contributed to positioning the UAE as a driver of global environmental action and a recognized global convener of related discussions and events.”

She added, “Launched during the UAE’s Government Annual Meetings in November 2022, the ‘We The UAE 2031’ vision represents a national plan through which the UAE will continue its development path for the next 10 years as well as highlight its pioneering approach to environmental protection. We seek to enhance cooperation between all stakeholders in the UAE to ensure we achieve the environmental indicators of the vision.”

The Minister noted that the Council explored transformational environmental projects in line with the new methodology for federal government work, announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and guided by the Principles of the 50”.

Waste-free Schools

In this context, MOCCAE signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Emirates Schools Establishment, Abu Dhabi Waste Management Company (Tadweer), and Bee’ah Group to launch and implement a Waste-free Schools project across 63 selected schools nationwide.

The partners will join forces to organise awareness workshops for teaching staff and school students about the concept and practices of integrated waste management. They will also provide waste separation bins and leverage high-tech waste management solutions at the selected schools.

Work teams

During the meeting, members reviewed the recommendations of their first meeting, including the development of the Council’s organisational structure and specialized work teams. They approved the establishment of five work teams: Studies and Research, Education and Awareness, Regional and International Participation, Policies and Legislations, and Transformational Projects.

Municipal work guides

MOCCAE presented an overview of phases one, two, and three of its Unified Municipal Work Guide that was previously launched. It also introduced the Guide to Net Zero for Cement Plants, which aims to boost the engagement of all sectors in achieving the objectives of the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.

“We The UAE 2031”

The Council explored ways to support the indicators of the “We the UAE 2031” vision by strengthening the country’s performance in environmental protection, food security, and greenhouse gas reduction.

Net-Zero Government Pact 2050

The Council discussed a proposal to introduce a Net-Zero Government Pact 2050 in the UAE with the aim of enhancing the contribution of government entities to the national climate neutrality drive in relation to procurement, energy efficiency in buildings, waste management, and sustainable transport.

MoUs

During the meeting, MOCCAE signed MoUs with 10 government entities to align their programs and initiatives with the UAE General Environmental Policy and increase their contribution to achieving the country’s objectives for environmental protection. These entities include the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Ministry of Economy, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Dubai Municipality, Ajman Municipality and Planning Department, Fujairah Environment Authority, Fujairah Municipality, Dibba Al Fujairah Municipality, and Fujairah Natural Resources Corporation.