The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) celebrated the 29th edition of the Emirates Recycling Awards in conjunction with World Environment Day 2026, recognising outstanding contributions to sustainability, recycling, and environmental stewardship across the UAE.
Held under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” the ceremony took place under the patronage and in the presence of Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, who joined Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi in presenting awards to winners across multiple categories.
The event brought together representatives from government entities, businesses, academic institutions, diplomatic missions, media organisations, and community groups, highlighting the UAE’s continued commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable development.
In her keynote address, Dr. Al Mar’ashi emphasised the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges and building a sustainable future.
“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 said.
She also highlighted the significance of the UAE’s Year of Family 2026, noting that sustainability begins within households through shared values and responsible everyday choices.
The Emirates Recycling Awards remain one of EEG’s flagship initiatives, recognising achievements in waste reduction, resource conservation, and circular economy practices through eight dedicated recycling campaigns.
According to EEG, its recycling programmes generated significant environmental benefits in 2025, including the reduction of 6,007 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, conservation of 46,387 billion BTUs of energy, preservation of 11,215 cubic metres of landfill space, and the saving of 28,569 trees. Participants also planted 2,266 trees across various environmental initiatives.
Collection achievements included more than 1.31 million kilograms of paper, 128,458 kilograms of plastic, 211,926 kilograms of glass bottles, 38,596 kilograms of aluminium cans, 22,529 kilograms of electronic waste, and 20,838 kilograms of scrap metal.
Among the academic winners, Higher Colleges of Technology Fujairah – Faseel Campus won the aluminium cans collection category, while Delhi Private School Sharjah secured the paper collection award.
Our Own High School Dubai won awards in plastic and mobile phone collection, and Sheikha Hissa Bint Saqr Private School received recognition for glass bottle collection.
In the individual category, Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi was honoured in multiple categories, including paper, plastic, glass bottle, and scrap metal collection.
Corporate winners included Emirates Flight Catering, Design Infinity LLC, Wasl Properties, Dubai Duty Free, Dubai Public Prosecution, Two Seasons Hotel & Apartments, and Citibank.
The event concluded with a renewed call for individuals, organisations, and communities to continue embedding sustainability into daily life and contribute to the UAE’s transition towards a greener and more circular economy.
