Latest news with #ClimateChangeandEnvironment
Arabian Post
5 hours ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE Commits to Comprehensive Ban on Single-Use Plastics by 2026
Greenlogue/AP The United Arab Emirates will enforce a nationwide prohibition on the import, production, and trade of single-use plastic products starting 1 January 2026, as announced by Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment. This measure builds upon earlier initiatives, including the 2024 ban on plastic bags, and reflects the country's commitment to environmental sustainability. The upcoming ban will encompass a range of single-use plastic items, such as cups, lids, cutlery, food containers, and plates. These items are known contributors to environmental pollution, particularly in marine ecosystems. The decision aligns with the UAE's broader environmental objectives, including its Circular Economy Policy, which aims to minimise waste and promote resource efficiency across various sectors. ADVERTISEMENT Dr Al Dahak emphasised the importance of collective action, urging citizens and businesses to adopt sustainable practices. She highlighted initiatives like the Clean Rivers programme by Erth Zayed Philanthropies, which addresses plastic pollution in waterways through community engagement and innovative solutions. The phased approach to the ban began in 2024 with restrictions on plastic bags, followed by a 2025 ban on items such as plastic stirrers and Styrofoam containers. The final phase in 2026 will complete the transition towards eliminating single-use plastics. Enforcement measures include fines for non-compliance, starting at AED 200 and escalating for repeated violations. Certain exemptions will apply, such as for products intended for export or specific uses like packaging for fresh produce.
Al Etihad
13 hours ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE pioneering efforts to reduce plastic pollution at national, global levels: Amna Al Dahak
5 June 2025 12:44 DUBAI (WAM) Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, said that the UAE is continuing its pioneering efforts to reduce plastic pollution at the national and global a statement marking World Environment Day, which falls annually on June 5, Dr. Al Dahak reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to protecting its precious environment, inspired by the vision of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who recognised the link between a healthy environment and a thriving society.'The UAE remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding our natural heritage. We envision a future with thriving ecosystems and protected life both on land and in the sea – a legacy we build together as a community," she year, World Environment Day calls for collective action to tackle plastic pollution, a challenge that demands our immediate attention and unified efforts. In response to this pressing issue, the UAE is implementing a comprehensive system to ensure proper and effective management of plastic January 1, 2026, Dr. Al Dahak clarified, the UAE will implement a comprehensive ban on the import, production, and trade of single-use plastic products. This builds upon the phased approach initiated in 2024 with the ban on plastic decisive action underscores our resolve and commitment to environmental stewardship, driving us towards a future where waste and pollution are designed out of our emphasised that as part of the UAE's global efforts to reduce plastic waste, Clean Rivers, one of Erth Zayed Philanthropies' initiatives, tackles plastic pollution in river systems by empowering communities and driving innovative solutions to create plastic-free Minister of Climate Change and Environment explained that the UAE's Circular Economy Policy is a key driver of this transformation, optimising resource use in critical sectors such as green infrastructure, transportation, manufacturing, and responsible food production and consumption.'The policy prioritises reducing plastic waste and promoting innovative solutions for sustainable packaging and recycling. Furthermore, we are resolutely committed to managing hazardous waste and aggressively reducing plastic waste at every level,' she further said.'Each of us, as responsible members of our community, can play a leading role in realising our nation's vision by joining the mission to eliminate unnecessary plastic from our daily lives,' Dr. Al Dahak stressed.'Let us become active agents of change, leading a powerful movement towards thriving communities and a vibrant, resilient environment. Let us protect the land and the sea that are so integral to our lives, for ourselves, our loved ones, and for generations to come.'Dr. Al Dahak concluded by calling for renewed focus on the ecosystems that sustain life, noting that this year's theme, Beat Plastic Pollution, is a call to action for every member of the community. 'Together, we can build a brighter, greener future for all.'
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
MOCCAE, EGF partner to boost UAE AgriTech SMEs
MoU signed at Emirates Agriculture Exhibition 2025 The agreement was formalized during the Emirates Agriculture Exhibition and Conference 2025 in Al Ain, attended by Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, and Najla Al Midfa, Vice Chair and Managing Director of EGF. Strategic partnership to empower SMEs in food security and AgriTech The collaboration unites two key national entities to support SMEs working in food and water security, agricultural innovation, local production, environmental technologies, and climate-aligned business models. Shared vision for a sustainable and resilient economy MOCCAE and EGF aim to unlock opportunities for UAE businesses to lead in creating a more self-sufficient, sustainable, and resilient economy — addressing food supply security and advancing environmental innovation. Framework for knowledge exchange and promotion The MoU establishes a platform for sharing expertise, promoting eligible companies, and showcasing success stories aligned with the UAE's climate and food security goals. Minister Dr Amna's statement on partnership goals Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak emphasized the importance of this partnership in achieving the National Food Security Strategy 2051 and UAE Vision 2031. She highlighted the private sector's role in driving environmental resilience and future readiness. EGF's commitment to long-term support for innovators Najla Al Midfa expressed EGF's dedication to supporting businesses that address national challenges through innovation and scale, providing not just capital but strategic guidance, governance, and network access. About Emirates growth fund With AED 1 billion in capital, EGF invests in UAE-based growth-stage companies in strategically important sectors, offering long-term partnerships designed to help businesses scale sustainably.
Mid East Info
5 days ago
- General
- Mid East Info
The UAE's agricultural heritage comes alive at National Agricultural Museum - Middle East Business News and Information
The UAE continues to build a sustainable agricultural sector as part of its journey to contribute to both food security and economic prosperity. At the heart of this transformation lies a fascinating story that spans centuries – from ancient desert farming practices to cutting-edge agricultural technologies. The country's remarkable journey has found its perfect storyteller in the National Agricultural Museum, unveiled at the Emirates Agriculture Conference & Exhibition 2025 being held in Al Ain. In remarks regarding the newly launched museum, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment said: 'The National Agricultural Museum marks a significant moment in the UAE's agricultural journey. A tribute to our ancestors' wisdom and our rich Emirati heritage, it will serve as a guiding light for our future generations to learn about the history of agriculture and take pride in what we have achieved. Going forward, we remain committed to steadily building up our local food production, acknowledging agriculture's central role in realising our food security ambitions.' A living testament to agricultural heritage: The museum stands as a comprehensive showcase that bridges the gap between traditional farming wisdom and futuristic agricultural innovations. This museum offers visitors an immersive journey through the UAE's agricultural evolution, from time-tested methods to revolutionary technologies. It offers visitors inspiration for how nations can transform challenges into opportunities through innovation, sustainability, and respect for cultural heritage. Visitors are taken on a journey from the past to the future, starting with traditional tools such as the Hoe (used for digging soil and ploughing), alongside the Meyaz (for cutting palm trees), the Al-Shakna (for trimming dead fronds from palm trees), and the Al Malkada (used to strike the Al-Shakna to help cut those fronds), showcasing the ingenious tool systems developed by ancient communities. Perhaps most impressive is the replica of the al falaj irrigation system – an engineering marvel that used underground tunnels to transport water across vast distances from hidden sources to community basins. These hand-dug channels sustained entire communities across the desert landscape, representing one of humanity's earliest examples of sustainable water management. The museum's live pottery demonstrations offer a captivating glimpse into a timeless tradition. In oasis regions like Al Ain and Liwa, local artisans crafted vessels from indigenous clay to store and preserve water, seeds, and crops. Often created during the agricultural off-season, pottery making became a communal activity, with designs reflecting specific tribal affiliations and transmitting practical and cultural knowledge across generations. Technology meets tradition: Today's irrigation landscape tells a different story. The museum showcases how advanced drip irrigation and subsurface systems have revolutionised water efficiency, while smart sensors and recycled water technologies maximise agricultural output with minimal resources. The future section captivates visitors with drone irrigation technology. Thermal imaging drones can detect plant stress through heat patterns invisible to the human eye, enabling farmers to respond rapidly to dehydration, disease, or equipment failures before crops suffer damage. These sophisticated systems capture infrared images and generate detailed heat maps for analysis on mobile and desktop platforms. The UAE's rich natural flora takes centre stage through exhibits featuring indigenous plants that formed the agricultural backbone for generations. The Sidr tree supports small-scale beekeeping and permaculture farms while contributing to agro-ecotourism and heritage food markets. Permaculture farms are based on the concept of utilising land, resources, people and the environment in a manner that doesn't produce any waste – and encourages the use of closed loop systems seen in nature[1]. The resilient Ghaf tree serves multiple purposes – from livestock fodder to soil stabilisation, traditional medicine, and timber for tools. The Acacia farnesiana functions as an ornamental plant, traditional perfume source, livestock fodder, and soil improver through nitrogen fixation. Similarly, the Acacia tortilis demonstrates how native species contribute to sustainable farming practices. The future is now: Modern farming techniques take prominence through displays of hydroponics and vertical farming systems. The museum's forward-looking exhibits feature robotics and artificial intelligence applications, autonomous farming machinery, and regenerative agriculture practices. A highlight is the innovative seed planting robot, representing the automation revolution transforming agriculture. The National Agricultural Museum stands as a testament to the UAE's commitment to honouring its heritage while embracing technological innovation. By showcasing this remarkable journey from ancient Al falaj systems to AI-powered farming, the museum demonstrates how traditional wisdom and modern technology can work together to ensure food security and economic sustainability.
Mid East Info
5 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Amna Al Dahak: UAE's Wise Leadership Fuels Success in Supporting Farmers and Agricultural Entrepreneurship, Bolstering Sustainable National Food Security
Amna Al Dahak: His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan is committed to supporting farmers with programmes and initiatives that help develop farms and increase production while improving quality and competitiveness. With the support of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Al Ain has become a key agricultural hub in the UAE, contributing significantly to the country's sustainable food security. The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition is a cornerstone for developing a technologically advanced and innovative agricultural sector in the UAE. Our strategic aim is for agriculture to become a key driver of sustainable and inclusive development across the Emirates. The Emirati farmer is at the heart of our efforts, and we are committed to empowering them with knowledge and modern technologies. Key Highlights: The closing ceremony saw sponsors and partners recognised, and further partnerships forged to promote innovation in the agricultural sector. Al Ain, May 2025: Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, has affirmed that, with the backing of the UAE's wise leadership, the nation is making significant strides in supporting farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs to enhance sustainable food security. Her Excellency noted that the inaugural Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition marks an important step towards developing a technologically advanced and innovative agricultural sector in the UAE. Her Excellency's comments came at the close of the first Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE and Chairman of the Presidential Court, The event, organised by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, took place over four days, from 28th to 31st May, at the ADNEC Al Ain Centre. The event saw widespread participation from government and private sector entities, academic and research institutions, start-ups, local farmers, and the community, achieving considerable success in showcasing the latest agricultural innovations, strengthening strategic partnerships, and supporting the UAE's vision for a secure and sustainable food future. Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak highlighted that the UAE's agricultural sector and farmers receive ongoing support from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. His Highness prioritises empowering farmers through various programmes and initiatives aimed at helping them improve their farms, boost production, and enhance quality and competitiveness. Her Excellency emphasised that, with the support of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Ain Region, the city of Al Ain has become a vital agricultural hub in the UAE. Its strong agricultural potential positions it to play a larger role in boosting the sector and supporting sustainable national food security. Al Ain now serves as a national model for modern agriculture, making it the ideal host for the first UAE Agricultural Conference and Exhibition. During the closing ceremony, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak expressed her pride and gratitude for the success of the conference and exhibition, thanking all those who had contributed to the success of this national event. Speaking about the conference's outcomes, Dr. Al Dahak explained: 'We have witnessed how science and hard work can transform challenges into opportunities, and how the desert can be turned into a green oasis thanks to the will and determination of the people of this nation. The unique products and innovative initiatives we have seen are testament to our ability to grow and develop our agricultural sector, and to continue making progress towards achieving sustainable food security.' Her Excellency Dr. Amna Al Dahak emphasised the vital role of Emirati farmers, saying: 'At the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, we believe that Emirati farmers are at the heart of our efforts, and we are committed to empowering them with knowledge and modern technologies.' Looking to the future, Her Excellency added: 'I am confident and optimistic that we will continue to strengthen our partnerships, launch new initiatives, and achieve further successes that benefit our nation. Our strategic goal is to make agriculture a key driver of sustainable and inclusive development across the Emirates.' Her Excellency Al Dahak affirmed the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment's commitment to building on the success of this inaugural event, ensuring that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition becomes a pivotal annual event that contributes to the development of the agricultural sector, strengthens partnerships between the public and private sectors, young people, entrepreneurs, and all members of the community, leading to a secure and sustainable food future for generations to come. Sponsors and Partners Recognised: At the close of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025, Her Excellency Dr. Al Dahak recognised the strategic partners and official sponsors of the event, in acknowledgement of their efforts and significant support, and their vital contribution to the success of its first edition. In a statement, Dr. Al Dahak said: 'I extend my sincere thanks to all the sponsors, partners, farmers, and creative young people, the lifeblood of this vital sector. The successes achieved demonstrate the ability of our agriculture to transform and innovate to achieve sustainable food security, and we are committed to empowering Emirati farmers and supporting the sustainability of the sector. We are now seeing the start of a continuous journey towards more sustainable agriculture, in line with the vision of our wise leadership. We look forward to further successes that serve our nation and fulfil the aspirations of the UAE community.' Strategic Platform for Innovation and Collaboration: The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition provided a leading strategic platform for sharing knowledge and showcasing the latest technologies and innovations in the agricultural sector. The comprehensive programme included over 75 speakers in more than 20 talks, panel discussions, and workshops covering all aspects of modern and sustainable agriculture. The event also saw active participation from 22 government federal and local government entities involved in the agriculture and food sector, alongside over 40 private sector companies, and more than 20 start-ups working in agritech. From the academic side, four national universities contributed their research capabilities, in addition to participation of several schools, with more than 1,000 students taking part in events and community workshops.
