EEG Concludes Landmark Environmental Art Competitions with Record Participation - Middle East Business News and Information
Emirates Environmental Group Celebrates the Winners of
the 20th Cycle of Environmental Drawing Competition &
2nd Cycle of Art from Waste Competition
Record Participation of 723,953 Students from 642 Schools in EDC
& 1,750 students from 355 Schools Across the UAE
Dubai, UAE – 22 May 2025: The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) concluded the 20th cycle of its national Environmental Drawing Competition (EDC), marking a significant milestone with the participation of 723,953 students from 642 schools across the UAE, including institutions catering to students of determination. This exceptional level of engagement highlights the growing interest among youth in addressing pressing environmental issues through creative expression.
A key component of EEG's educational outreach, the Environmental Drawing Competition has, for two decades, empowered students to think critically about sustainability. Through the medium of art, it fosters awareness, encourages innovative thinking, and nurtures a strong sense of environmental responsibility.
This year's competition featured three thought-provoking themes, tailored to specific age groups: 'The Power of Trees: Guardians of the Earth' – for ages 6–8 – exploring the vital role of trees in climate regulation, biodiversity, and ecosystem health.
– for ages 6–8 – exploring the vital role of trees in climate regulation, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. 'Sunshine and Rainbows: Celebrating Renewable Energy' – for ages 9–11 – focusing on clean energy sources and their importance in building a sustainable future.
– for ages 9–11 – focusing on clean energy sources and their importance in building a sustainable future. 'E-Waste: A Modern-Day Crisis' – for ages 12–14 – highlighting the environmental dangers of electronic waste and the need for responsible disposal and recycling.
Moreover, a total of 243 remarkable projects from 1,750 students were submitted by 355 schools from across the UAE for the 2nd Cycle of Art from Waste (AfW), reflecting the ingenuity, skill and commitment of young artists who reimagined waste as a medium for artistic expression. This annual competition encourages students to rethink waste, demonstrating how discarded materials can be repurposed into stunning works of art. It nurtures creativity and reinforces the importance of sustainability in shaping a greener future.
The 2025 competition featured 3 engaging themes, each tailoured to a specific age group: 'Sea Turtle' – for students aged 9 to 11 years 'Flamingo' – for students aged 12 to 14 years 'Oryx Leucoryx' – for students aged 15 to 17 years
These themes were carefully designed to highlight the significance of our local biodiversity and the urgent need to protect the endangered species. By incorporating upcycling and waste repurposing into their artwork, students were encouraged to think critically about environmental conservation and the role of sustainability in creative expression.
To honour the competition's winners, EEG hosted a special awards ceremony on 22nd May at the Ismaili Centre, Dubai, the long-standing host supporter of this competition. The event featured a captivating exhibition of the winning entries and was attended by students, educators, families, sponsors & supporters, dignitaries, and members of the press.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, praised the creativity and commitment shown by the student community in the UAE:
'This competition continues to demonstrate the remarkable potential of our youth. Through their artistic talents, they have communicated powerful messages of hope, responsibility and action. We are proud to offer a platform that encourages such meaningful engagement with the environment.'
Reflecting on the impact of the Art from Waste competition, Mrs. Habiba Al Mar'ashi further emphasised its ability to challenge perceptions about waste while fostering environmental awareness and creative skills among young minds. 'Art is a universal language that transcends boundaries. By harnessing its influence, we aim to instill a lifelong commitment to environmental preservation in the younger generation,' she stated.
She extended appreciation to Accenture, the official supporting partner, for their role in supporting the 20th Cycle of Environmental Drawing Competition. 'Our collaboration with Accenture has further strengthened the reach and impact of this competition, and we appreciate their dedication to environmental advocacy and youth empowerment.'
Submissions were reviewed by a distinguished panel of experts in art and education for both competitions: Dr. Najat Makki, Visual Artist, Member of Dubai Cultural Council The Artist Ms. Pari Sagar The Artist Ms. Fatima Al Hammadi
The awarding ceremony was divided into two parts; the first one was for the winning students in the EDC for their outstanding submissions in the 20th Cycle of Environmental Drawing Competition under each theme:
'The Power of Trees: Guardians of the Earth' (Ages 6–8) Students of Determination Category School Participant Result Al-Awael Private School Juod Mohammed Omar Mahjoob Winner Al Ain Center for Autism Dhiyab Mahmoud Al Shamsi 1st Runner Up Al-Awael Private School Fatima Mohammed Dhahrawi 2nd Runner Up Regular Students Category School Participant Result Abdulrahman Al Nasser School – Cycle 1 Mohammed Mohammed Al-Zaabi Winner Bint Al-Shatea School Shamma Marwan Al-Ghafli 1st Runner Up Zayed Educational Complex, Dibba Al Fujairah Mazen Rashid Mohammed 2nd Runner Up
'Sunshine and Rainbows: Celebrating Renewable Energy' (Ages 9–11) Students of Determination Category School Participant Result Zayed Foundation for People of Determination, Zayed City Center Maha Zeyad Al Saadi Winner Al Noor Training Centre with People of Determination Amelia 1st Runner Up Um Ammar School Cycle 1 Aisha Muhammed Ali Al Shehi 2nd Runner Up Regular Students Category School Participant Result Delhi Private School, Sharjah Heer Sharma Winner Al-Hirah Child Center Mariam Al Raessi 1st Runner Up Ambassador School, Dubai N. Navya 2nd Runner Up
'E-Waste: A Modern-Day Crisis' (Ages 12–14) Students of Determination Category School Participant Result Ghayathi Center for Care and Rehabilitation Essa Mohammed Al Mansori Winner Al Noor training Centre with People of Determination Hima Zahie 1st Runner Up Al Noor training Centre with People of Determination Sai 2nd Runner Up Regular Students Category School Participant Result Pearl Wisdom School Bhavans Dubai Devang Sajesh Winner tie AL Ain Juniors School Indian System Aaleyah Batool Winner tie New Indian Model School, Dubai Muhammed Razi 1st Runner Up Delhi Private School, Sharjah Anjali Priyaa 2nd Runner Up
The 2nd part of the awarding ceremony was the winning schools in the 2nd cycle of Art from Waste Competition; they were recognised for their outstanding submissions under each theme: Project name Category Position Schools Sea Turtle (aged 9 to 11 years ) Regular Winner Al Andeles School – Cycle 1 1st Runner Up Moza Bint Buti school 2nd Runner Up Bhavans Pearl Wisdom School, Sharjah Students of Determination Winner Al-Khalidiya School, second and third cycle, for boys-Eastern 1st Runner Up Al Sila'a Center Abu Dhabi 2nd Runner Up A NOOR TRAINING CENTRE WITH PEOPLE OF DETERMINATION Flamingo (students aged 12 to 14 years) Regular Winner Diyar Private Academy – Dibba 1st Runner Up Al Ain Juniors School, AL Ain 2nd Runner Up India International School, Sharjah Students of Determination Winner India International School, Sharjah 1st Runner Up New Academy School 2nd Runner Up Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services – Khorfakkan Branch Oryx Leucoryx (students aged 15 to 17 years) Regular Winner Dubai International School 1st Runner Up New Indian Model School, Dubai 2nd Runner Up Diyar Private Academy – Dibba Students of Determination Winner Fatima Al Zahra Secondary School for Girls 1st Runner Up Bahethat Albadeya School
EEG extends its heartfelt congratulations to all winners and participants for their enthusiasm, vision, and commitment to environmental protection.
Notes to Editors:
Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is a professional working group established in 1991 in the United Arab Emirates. It is devoted to protecting the environment through the means of education, action programmes and community involvement. EEG is actively encouraged and supported by concerned local and federal government agencies. It is the first environmental NGO in the world to be ISO 14001 certified and the only organisation of its kind in the UAE with accredited status to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). EEG is a member of the UN Global Compact, the Global Urban Development (GUD) and the Global Investors for Sustainable Alliance (GISD). It is also a member of the One Planet Network under the programme of Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) and its Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) and Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML), EEG is a full Member (voting) of World Packaging Organisation (WPO).
For more information, contact us: email: eeg@emirates.net.ae; Tel: 04-3448622; Fax: 04-3448677 and please visit our bi-lingual website: http://www.eeg-uae.org; Follow us on LinkedIn, FB; Twitter & Instagram: @eegemirates.
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Mid East Info
22-05-2025
- Mid East Info
EEG Concludes Landmark Environmental Art Competitions with Record Participation - Middle East Business News and Information
Emirates Environmental Group Celebrates the Winners of the 20th Cycle of Environmental Drawing Competition & 2nd Cycle of Art from Waste Competition Record Participation of 723,953 Students from 642 Schools in EDC & 1,750 students from 355 Schools Across the UAE Dubai, UAE – 22 May 2025: The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) concluded the 20th cycle of its national Environmental Drawing Competition (EDC), marking a significant milestone with the participation of 723,953 students from 642 schools across the UAE, including institutions catering to students of determination. This exceptional level of engagement highlights the growing interest among youth in addressing pressing environmental issues through creative expression. A key component of EEG's educational outreach, the Environmental Drawing Competition has, for two decades, empowered students to think critically about sustainability. Through the medium of art, it fosters awareness, encourages innovative thinking, and nurtures a strong sense of environmental responsibility. This year's competition featured three thought-provoking themes, tailored to specific age groups: 'The Power of Trees: Guardians of the Earth' – for ages 6–8 – exploring the vital role of trees in climate regulation, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. – for ages 6–8 – exploring the vital role of trees in climate regulation, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. 'Sunshine and Rainbows: Celebrating Renewable Energy' – for ages 9–11 – focusing on clean energy sources and their importance in building a sustainable future. – for ages 9–11 – focusing on clean energy sources and their importance in building a sustainable future. 'E-Waste: A Modern-Day Crisis' – for ages 12–14 – highlighting the environmental dangers of electronic waste and the need for responsible disposal and recycling. Moreover, a total of 243 remarkable projects from 1,750 students were submitted by 355 schools from across the UAE for the 2nd Cycle of Art from Waste (AfW), reflecting the ingenuity, skill and commitment of young artists who reimagined waste as a medium for artistic expression. This annual competition encourages students to rethink waste, demonstrating how discarded materials can be repurposed into stunning works of art. It nurtures creativity and reinforces the importance of sustainability in shaping a greener future. The 2025 competition featured 3 engaging themes, each tailoured to a specific age group: 'Sea Turtle' – for students aged 9 to 11 years 'Flamingo' – for students aged 12 to 14 years 'Oryx Leucoryx' – for students aged 15 to 17 years These themes were carefully designed to highlight the significance of our local biodiversity and the urgent need to protect the endangered species. By incorporating upcycling and waste repurposing into their artwork, students were encouraged to think critically about environmental conservation and the role of sustainability in creative expression. To honour the competition's winners, EEG hosted a special awards ceremony on 22nd May at the Ismaili Centre, Dubai, the long-standing host supporter of this competition. The event featured a captivating exhibition of the winning entries and was attended by students, educators, families, sponsors & supporters, dignitaries, and members of the press. In her welcome address, Mrs. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, praised the creativity and commitment shown by the student community in the UAE: 'This competition continues to demonstrate the remarkable potential of our youth. Through their artistic talents, they have communicated powerful messages of hope, responsibility and action. We are proud to offer a platform that encourages such meaningful engagement with the environment.' Reflecting on the impact of the Art from Waste competition, Mrs. Habiba Al Mar'ashi further emphasised its ability to challenge perceptions about waste while fostering environmental awareness and creative skills among young minds. 'Art is a universal language that transcends boundaries. By harnessing its influence, we aim to instill a lifelong commitment to environmental preservation in the younger generation,' she stated. She extended appreciation to Accenture, the official supporting partner, for their role in supporting the 20th Cycle of Environmental Drawing Competition. 'Our collaboration with Accenture has further strengthened the reach and impact of this competition, and we appreciate their dedication to environmental advocacy and youth empowerment.' Submissions were reviewed by a distinguished panel of experts in art and education for both competitions: Dr. Najat Makki, Visual Artist, Member of Dubai Cultural Council The Artist Ms. Pari Sagar The Artist Ms. Fatima Al Hammadi The awarding ceremony was divided into two parts; the first one was for the winning students in the EDC for their outstanding submissions in the 20th Cycle of Environmental Drawing Competition under each theme: 'The Power of Trees: Guardians of the Earth' (Ages 6–8) Students of Determination Category School Participant Result Al-Awael Private School Juod Mohammed Omar Mahjoob Winner Al Ain Center for Autism Dhiyab Mahmoud Al Shamsi 1st Runner Up Al-Awael Private School Fatima Mohammed Dhahrawi 2nd Runner Up Regular Students Category School Participant Result Abdulrahman Al Nasser School – Cycle 1 Mohammed Mohammed Al-Zaabi Winner Bint Al-Shatea School Shamma Marwan Al-Ghafli 1st Runner Up Zayed Educational Complex, Dibba Al Fujairah Mazen Rashid Mohammed 2nd Runner Up 'Sunshine and Rainbows: Celebrating Renewable Energy' (Ages 9–11) Students of Determination Category School Participant Result Zayed Foundation for People of Determination, Zayed City Center Maha Zeyad Al Saadi Winner Al Noor Training Centre with People of Determination Amelia 1st Runner Up Um Ammar School Cycle 1 Aisha Muhammed Ali Al Shehi 2nd Runner Up Regular Students Category School Participant Result Delhi Private School, Sharjah Heer Sharma Winner Al-Hirah Child Center Mariam Al Raessi 1st Runner Up Ambassador School, Dubai N. Navya 2nd Runner Up 'E-Waste: A Modern-Day Crisis' (Ages 12–14) Students of Determination Category School Participant Result Ghayathi Center for Care and Rehabilitation Essa Mohammed Al Mansori Winner Al Noor training Centre with People of Determination Hima Zahie 1st Runner Up Al Noor training Centre with People of Determination Sai 2nd Runner Up Regular Students Category School Participant Result Pearl Wisdom School Bhavans Dubai Devang Sajesh Winner tie AL Ain Juniors School Indian System Aaleyah Batool Winner tie New Indian Model School, Dubai Muhammed Razi 1st Runner Up Delhi Private School, Sharjah Anjali Priyaa 2nd Runner Up The 2nd part of the awarding ceremony was the winning schools in the 2nd cycle of Art from Waste Competition; they were recognised for their outstanding submissions under each theme: Project name Category Position Schools Sea Turtle (aged 9 to 11 years ) Regular Winner Al Andeles School – Cycle 1 1st Runner Up Moza Bint Buti school 2nd Runner Up Bhavans Pearl Wisdom School, Sharjah Students of Determination Winner Al-Khalidiya School, second and third cycle, for boys-Eastern 1st Runner Up Al Sila'a Center Abu Dhabi 2nd Runner Up A NOOR TRAINING CENTRE WITH PEOPLE OF DETERMINATION Flamingo (students aged 12 to 14 years) Regular Winner Diyar Private Academy – Dibba 1st Runner Up Al Ain Juniors School, AL Ain 2nd Runner Up India International School, Sharjah Students of Determination Winner India International School, Sharjah 1st Runner Up New Academy School 2nd Runner Up Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services – Khorfakkan Branch Oryx Leucoryx (students aged 15 to 17 years) Regular Winner Dubai International School 1st Runner Up New Indian Model School, Dubai 2nd Runner Up Diyar Private Academy – Dibba Students of Determination Winner Fatima Al Zahra Secondary School for Girls 1st Runner Up Bahethat Albadeya School EEG extends its heartfelt congratulations to all winners and participants for their enthusiasm, vision, and commitment to environmental protection. Notes to Editors: Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is a professional working group established in 1991 in the United Arab Emirates. It is devoted to protecting the environment through the means of education, action programmes and community involvement. EEG is actively encouraged and supported by concerned local and federal government agencies. It is the first environmental NGO in the world to be ISO 14001 certified and the only organisation of its kind in the UAE with accredited status to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). EEG is a member of the UN Global Compact, the Global Urban Development (GUD) and the Global Investors for Sustainable Alliance (GISD). It is also a member of the One Planet Network under the programme of Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) and its Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) and Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML), EEG is a full Member (voting) of World Packaging Organisation (WPO). For more information, contact us: email: eeg@ Tel: 04-3448622; Fax: 04-3448677 and please visit our bi-lingual website: Follow us on LinkedIn, FB; Twitter & Instagram: @eegemirates.


Mid East Info
09-05-2025
- Mid East Info
EEG Marks 25 Years of Youth Empowerment Through National Environmental Education Programme - Middle East Business News and Information
In a landmark moment marking 25 years of environmental advocacy and youth empowerment, the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) proudly concluded the 25th Cycle of one of its most impactful educational programmes targeting the intermediate and secondary school students; known as the 'Inter-School Environmental Public Speaking Competition'. It is a flagship national initiative that continues to serve as a dynamic platform for nurturing the voices and visions of tomorrow's environmental leaders. Held from 5th to 8th May 2025 at the Taaleem Centre in Al Barsha, this milestone edition brought together 702 students from 117 schools across the UAE in a celebration of knowledge, innovation and civic responsibility. The Silver Jubilee of this esteemed competition is a testament to EEG's unwavering dedication to integrating environmental education into the heart of academic and youth development. It stands as the longest-running and most impactful educational outreach programme in the UAE, designed to elevate environmental literacy while empowering students to become agents of change. Through the power of dialogue, public speaking, critical thinking and research, this programme offers students aged 13 to 18 the opportunity to engage in solution-oriented discussions on some of the world's most pressing environmental and sustainability issues. In her stirring opening address, Mrs. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, the Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, reflected on the legacy of this initiative and the incredible journey it has taken over the last two and a half decades. 'What began as a modest initiative has evolved into a national movement that is empowering the youth with the tools, knowledge and confidence to confront environmental challenges of our time. The competition is about inspiring ownership, responsibility and vision amongst the youth. It is about shaping the leaders who will build the sustainable future we all aspire to,' she stated. She further added: 'This year's cycle was held under the spirit of the 'Year of Community', declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE highlighting the importance of collective engagement and social cohesion. It is through platforms like these that we strengthen the social fabric of our nation and ignite a sense of purpose amongst the youth—motivating them to take action, not just in classrooms, but in their homes, communities and future careers'. The programme goes beyond its immediate educational value—it is a powerful contributor to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). This year's topics and themes were aligned with Goal #3: Good Health and Well-Being, Goal #4: Quality Education, Goal #7: Affordable and Clean Energy, Goal #9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Goal #11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, Goal #12: Responsible Consumption and Production, Goal #13: Climate Action, Goal #14: Life Below Water, Goal #15: Life on Land and Goal #17: Partnerships for the Goals. The integration of these global goals into the competition ensures that students are educated on environmental matters and are equipped with a systems-thinking approach that views sustainability as a holistic and interconnected priority. The true legacy of the Inter-School Environmental Public Speaking Competition lies in its transformational, long-term impact on students and the wider society. Over its 25-year journey, the competition has influenced thousands of young minds, fostering a deep-rooted sense of environmental responsibility and stewardship as well as ownership and leadership. This initiative sows the seeds of a more sustainable future by encouraging students to view environmental issues through the lens of social justice, health, innovation and equity. It nurtures ethical leadership and a sense of purpose, enabling youth to become proactive contributors to society and advocates for a healthier planet. The competition has become a cornerstone in the development of an engaged and environmentally literate generation—one that sees action as a choice and as a responsibility. This is the type of long-term impact that transforms not just individuals, but the communities and systems in which they live. Throughout the four-day programme, students captivated a distinguished panel of bilingual judges with well-researched presentations, original perspectives and solution-driven proposals. The judging panel, comprising experts in environmental science, education and sustainable development, offered valuable feedback and insights, creating a nurturing yet intellectually rigorous environment. EEG proudly acknowledges the steadfast support of its partners who made this milestone event possible. The Ministry of Education generously hosted the competition, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to embedding sustainability into national education. Longstanding supporters such as McDonald's UAE and Abela & Co. played an essential role in the successful execution of the event, showcasing the power of cross sector partnerships in advancing the sustainability agenda. The event concluded on a celebratory note with an exciting awards ceremony. After a highly competitive and inspiring four days, Global Indian International School, Dubai, under the topic: Urbanisation vs. Wellbeing: The Role of Sustainable Cities in Public Health, emerged as the Champion of the 25th Cycle, succeeding the 2024 titleholder, Delhi Private School Dubai. EEG extends heartfelt congratulations to all the students, teachers and schools for their tireless efforts and meaningful contributions. As EEG reflects on this Silver Jubilee edition, one thing is abundantly clear: the investment in youth is the most profitable one, it is also a powerful catalyst for lasting environmental and societal change. This competition is definitely a legacy of EEG as it leaves a very tangible mark on the educational scape of the country. It is also a living, evolving platform that will continue to shape the narrative of sustainability in the UAE and beyond. Emirates Environmental Group (EEG): is a professional working group established in 1991 in the United Arab Emirates. It is devoted to protecting the environment through the means of education, action programmes and community involvement. EEG is actively encouraged and supported by concerned local and federal government agencies. It is the 1st environmental NGO in the world to be ISO 14001 certified and the only organisation of its kind in the UAE with accredited status to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). EEG is a member of the UN Global Compact, the Global Urban Development (GUD) and the Global Investors for Sustainable Alliance (GISD). It is also a member of the One Planet Network under the programme of Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) and its Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) and Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML), EEG is a full Member (voting) of World Packaging Organisation (WPO).


Mid East Info
22-04-2025
- Mid East Info
Emirates Environmental Group and Umm Al Quwain Municipality Join Forces for a Landmark Earth Day Mangrove Planting at Mangrove Beach, UAQ
Umm Al Quwain, UAE – In an inspiring tribute to Earth Day 2025, the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), in strong and strategic collaboration with Umm Al Quwain Municipality, successfully carried out a landmark edition of its long-running national tree planting programme, 'For Our Emirates We Plant.' The event took place at the scenic and ecologically significant Mangrove Beach in Umm Al Quwain, a fitting venue for a powerful initiative focused on restoring nature and amplifying environmental consciousness. This year's Earth Day event was more than just a planting activity — it was a symbol of unified environmental stewardship and a powerful reminder of the UAE's ongoing commitment to a greener, more sustainable future. The occasion drew the active participation of government representatives, private sector entities, academic institutions, families, youth groups, and passionate volunteers. With hands in the soil and hearts in the mission, participants planted hundreds of mangrove saplings, each one a living pledge to safeguard the future of our ecosystems, our climate, and our communities. Welcoming the attendees, EEG Co-Founder & Chairperson Mrs. Habiba Al Mar'ashi expressed the organisation's gratitude and pride in continuing its impactful partnership with Umm Al Quwain Municipality, underlining the significance of this year's Earth Day celebration. She noted that this event builds upon the strong momentum created by the UAE's national 'Plant the Emirates' campaign — a powerful initiative that promotes environmental awareness, public engagement, and reforestation efforts across all seven emirates. Mrs. Al Mar'ashi further highlighted EEG's pivotal role in driving national greening efforts, having facilitated the planting of over one million indigenous trees throughout the UAE and the region over the past two decades. With the addition of today's 1,200 newly planted mangrove saplings, the total number of native trees planted under EEG's programmes has now reached 2,147,367 representing a significant environmental milestone and a source of national pride. These tree-planting efforts are not merely symbolic; they have had measurable and lasting impacts. Since 2007, EEG's reforestation initiatives have contributed to the removal of over 186,213 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere — a tangible step forward in addressing the climate crisis and aligning with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative. The focus on mangrove trees for this year's planting is both timely and crucial. Mangroves are among the most effective natural solutions in the fight against climate change, capable of absorbing up to four times more carbon dioxide than terrestrial forests. Beyond their carbon-sequestering superpowers, mangroves serve as essential protectors of coastal zones, shielding shorelines from erosion, filtering pollutants from the water, and providing sanctuary for a wide array of marine biodiversity. By planting mangroves, EEG and its partners are enhancing the UAE's natural resilience and fortifying critical ecosystems that support life above and below water. This Earth Day initiative is not an isolated act, but part of a larger mosaic of environmental progress in the country. It directly contributes to several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), most notably: SDG 13 – Climate Action, SDG 14 – Life Below Water, SDG 15 – Life on Land, and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals. It is a shining example of how collaborative efforts between government bodies, civil society organisations, private entities, and individuals can produce lasting, measurable impact for both people and planet. Reflecting on the broader importance of the initiative, EEG remarked that this event carries forward the energy and vision of the UAE's Year of Sustainability and seamlessly transitions into 2025's national theme — the Year of Community. This year's theme calls upon all sectors of society to act collectively, to foster inclusive growth, and to take shared responsibility for the well-being of our environment and future generations. Today's mangrove planting embodies this ethos, representing what can be achieved when purpose-driven partnerships are formed with the environment at heart. EEG extended its sincere appreciation to Umm Al Quwain Municipality for their invaluable support and partnership in hosting this event. Their leadership and commitment to environmental advancement continue to inspire and set the standard for sustainable urban development in the UAE. The organisation thanked all the entities that contributed to the success of this mangrove planting activity Ayrat Kamaltinov, Grand Plaza Mövenpick Media City, Labotel LLC, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Middle East Energy Dubai, MidEast Data Systems LLC, Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, National Bonds, Sahara Group, Sofitel Dubai Downtown, The Tower Plaza Hotel and United Hospitality Management who adopted these trees. Participants showed up in great numbers to contribute to this important cause by planting the mangroves, their dedication and energy were central to the success of the day. As the saplings took root in the rich soil of Mangrove Beach, they stood as more than just trees — they stood as symbols of hope, resilience and a collective promise for a better tomorrow. Each tree represents an action taken not only to beautify our landscapes but to help reverse the harmful effects of climate change, preserve biodiversity and create healthy ecosystems that support life in all its forms. In closing, EEG reiterated its call to action to everyone in the UAE to play an active role in environmental protection. Whether through tree planting, reducing carbon footprints, participating in sustainability programmes, or simply spreading awareness, each contribution matters. As EEG's enduring motto reminds us, 'Together for a Better Environment.' Let today's Earth Day celebration be a beacon of what we can achieve together — and a powerful step forward in building a greener, more sustainable UAE for generations to come. Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is a professional working group established in 1991 in the United Arab Emirates. It is devoted to protecting the environment through the means of education, action programmes and community involvement. EEG is actively encouraged and supported by concerned local and federal government agencies. It is the 1st environmental NGO in the world to be ISO 14001 certified and the only organisation of its kind in the UAE with accredited status to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). EEG is a member of the UN Global Compact, the Global Urban Development (GUD) and the Global Investors for Sustainable Alliance (GISD). It is also a member of the One Planet Network under the programme of Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) and its Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) and Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML), EEG is a full Member (voting) of World Packaging Organisation (WPO).