The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, in conjunction with its key partners, has unveiled an ambitious endeavor aimed at gathering a staggering 20 million single-use plastic bottles per year for recycling. This monumental effort will be achieved through the installation of 70 cutting-edge bottle retrieval machines and 26 intelligent containers strategically placed in high-risk areas across the emirate. Notably, the project has garnered significant public engagement, with active participation observed at prominent locations such as the Corniche, Abu Dhabi Airport, sports centers, shopping complexes, and educational institutions.
The remarkable bottle recovery initiative finds its roots within the overarching societal campaign titled “Together Towards Zero,” introduced by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. This comprehensive campaign aligns with the single-use plastics policy established in 2020, with the ultimate aim of achieving zero waste from single-use plastics and carbon emissions, all while ensuring minimal impact on biodiversity.
A momentous occasion marked the formal announcement of this initiative. The ceremony, hosted by Aldar Group, saw the esteemed presence of His Excellency Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Authority, along with key partners of the Authority. Noteworthy collaborators, including ADNOC Distribution, Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society, Aldar Company, Carrefour, Choithrams, Degrade and Lulu Group, Nadira Company, Recap initiative from Veolia, and the Emirates Sustainable Packaging Association, have fervently embraced the implementation of this ambitious undertaking.
In a statement delivered on this auspicious event, Her Excellency Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri emphasized, “We have observed over time the detrimental impact of single-use plastics on both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, as well as on human health. Moreover, the protracted decomposition period further exacerbates the concern. Thus, we introduced the Abu Dhabi Single-Use Plastics Policy, the pioneering initiative of its kind within the region.” Her Excellency further elaborated, “As part of this policy’s execution, we are deploying a range of incentive-driven bottle retrieval machines and innovative smart containers, strategically positioned throughout Abu Dhabi. This endeavor reflects the collaborative efforts of our strategic partners, who have steadfastly supported the policy’s realization since its inception.”
The Secretary General also lauded the remarkable dedication of their partners, underscoring their pivotal role in policy implementation. “Our partners have played a pivotal role in driving our policy forward, exhibiting an unprecedented commitment since the ban on single-use plastic bags was introduced in major retail outlets last year,” she remarked. Inviting society at large to join in achieving these policy goals, she highlighted the significance of embracing a recycling-oriented ethos, thereby contributing to Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a highly livable city.
Dr. Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri noted, “The introduction of innovative bottle take-back machines and intelligent containers will facilitate the integration of single-use plastic bottles and aluminum cans into the recycling stream, offering incentives to those participating. Ensuring convenient accessibility, these machines and containers are strategically placed, alleviating the burden of locating them for consumers.” Emphasizing the role of incentives in promoting environmentally sustainable habits, she expressed optimism that these technological innovations would effectively foster a recycling culture among Abu Dhabi residents, acting as a pivotal step toward a circular economy and material flow reduction.
Bertrand Lumy, Country Director UAE for Majid Al Futtaim Retail, also extended his support for the campaign. “Carrefour is honored to partner with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi in the ‘Together to Zero’ campaign,” Lumy declared. Committed to this initiative, Carrefour plans to deploy 18 bottle retrieval machines and intelligent containers across its stores in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
Rajeev Warrier, CEO of Choithrams, voiced his enthusiasm for participating in the “Together Towards Zero” campaign. In collaboration with Unilever and DeGrade, Choithrams is keen on driving the bottle take-back initiative to reduce plastic waste and contribute to a sustainable future. Warrier stressed the importance of shared responsibility in safeguarding the environment and encouraging customers to play an active role in recycling efforts.
As Abu Dhabi forges ahead with its groundbreaking initiative, the collaboration between public and private entities exemplifies a unified commitment toward a more sustainable future, echoing the emirate’s vision to lead the charge in environmentally conscious practices.