Latest news with #UAENationalEnvironmentDay
Al Etihad
07-08-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE's ‘Paper Bag Boy' now an innovator with big, green dreams for Earth
8 Aug 2025 00:15 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)At 10 years old, Abdul Muqeet Abdul Mannan was already making paper bags out of recycled newspapers, distributing them to grocery stores to help curb plastic pollution. Now 24 and a computer engineer, he is building artificial intelligence (AI) tools to advance climate education. 'When I was in school in 2010, our principal announced that we would observe a 'No Plastic Day' for the UAE National Environment Day,' he recalled in a recent interview with Aletihad . 'I became curious about why we were not supposed to use plastic, especially since it was so common in everyday life.'What followed was a deep dive into the consequences of plastic use — from marine pollution to the deaths of camels in the desert and a resolve to do something about recycling initiative earned him the title 'Paper Bag Boy' and one of the UAE's highest civilian honours, the Abu Dhabi Award, setting him off on a life-long mission as an environmental advocate. 'Receiving this recognition gave me something priceless; it gave me credibility and confidence. It opened doors across the globe,' he said. 'It truly changed everything … and proved that even at a young age, I could make a real difference.' Merging Engineering with Environmentalism That same energy pushed Abdul Mannan into computer engineering, driven by curiosity about how digital systems work and how they can serve climate 2023, he teamed up with UNICEF's Office of Innovation to launch GreenPal FunDoo, an AI-powered chatbot unveiled at COP28 in Dubai to teach climate awareness in engaging, gamified a 2024 internship with cloud services firm Bespin Global MEA, he developed a tool that uses AI to analyse climate research and answer environmental questions, making science more accessible to the his interests have turned to the link between data governance, cybersecurity, and sustainability.'Data centres are among the most energy-intensive systems,' he said. 'If I could invent a new solution, it would be a smart energy management system for cloud data centres — one that automatically shifts workloads based on real-time access to renewable energy like solar or wind.'He also plans to work closely with companies to reduce e-waste, promote greener cloud usage, and improve sustainable office practices.'At the same time, I will keep leading workshops for students and professionals — because real change begins when people understand why sustainability matters and how they can contribute,' Abdul Mannan said. 'The UAE's sustainability vision is ambitious and inspiring, and I am excited to be part of the generation that helps bring it to life.'His advice for other young people? 'Start small, but start now. Everything on earth can be recycled, except time.''Find what you are passionate about, whether it is art, business, coding, writing, or something else, and look for ways to connect it to the environment,' Abdul Mannan said. He maintains that saving the planet needs creative thinkers, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and innovators, as much as scientists and policymakers.'Begin in your school or community. Learn about the challenges, ask questions, and take action, even something as simple as spreading awareness among friends can create a ripple effect. That is how real change starts,' he added. Youth Empowerment a National Priority for the UAE Growing up as a child advocate in the UAE, Abdul Muqeet Abdul Mannan has learnt that 'age does not limit impact'.Abdul Mannan has proudly represented the UAE on international platforms, showcasing its key climate milestones from Masdar City to the Net Zero by 2050 strategy. 'Each experience reinforced the importance of global dialogue and reminded me that environmental advocacy is not just a personal passion, it is a shared global mission,' he said. Over the years, he's seen youth involvement grow from symbolic gestures to full-fledged leadership, supported by the UAE's youth-focused initiatives and forward-thinking policies. 'From coding and design to environmental entrepreneurship, today's youth are using their individual strengths to drive change,' Abdul Mannan said. International Youth Day in 2025 will be celebrated on August 12 under the theme 'Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond'.The UAE has embedded youth empowerment into government strategies and national policies. The establishment of the Federal Youth Authority and appointment of the world's youngest Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Shamma Al Mazrui, in 2016, reflect the country's commitment to placing young people at the heart of national platforms like the Emirates Youth Council and programmes such as the UAE Youth Hub, the government provides resources, mentorship, and spaces for the youth to lead in fields ranging from sustainability and entrepreneurship to science and technology. These efforts align with the UAE Centennial 2071 vision, which recognises the youth as key architects of the country's long-term prosperity.
Mid East Info
07-04-2025
- General
- Mid East Info
Shaping Tomorrow's Environmental Leaders: EAD and Emirates Nature-WWF Launch 5-Year Citizen Science Strategy to Ignite Youth Action Through Connect with Nature
5-Year Strategy marks a new chapter in Connect with Nature's legacy of impact, recognising the vital role of students and educators in driving a sustainable future Citizen Science and environmental stewardship to be integrated across schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra Region, empowering UAE youth to participate in hands-on conservation field trips As part of the Year of Community the Connect with Nature's new school Field Trip Series launched on UAE National Environment Day Abu Dhabi: As part of the Year of the Community, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Emirates Nature-WWF, the founding partners of the Connect with Nature programme, announced the launch of a new 5-year strategy (2025-2029). The strategy aims to empower a new generation of young leaders in environmental conservation by promoting Citizen Science. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, and Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emirates Nature-WWF, to renew the long-standing partnership between the two parties on the details of implementing the new strategy. The new strategy builds on the tremendous success of the Connect with Nature programme, which has reached more than 2.5 million youth since its launch in 2019. It connects youth with nature and provides students in public and private schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra region with the opportunity to participate in field activities that promote environmental conservation and Citizen Science. It also underscores a steadfast commitment to inspiring and empowering young people in society. The programme continues to engage youth, particularly younger audiences, providing them with opportunities to cultivate their potential and grow into the leaders of tomorrow. Commenting on the launch of the strategy, Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri said, 'The new 5-year strategy represents an important stage in our journey towards promoting environmental responsibility in society and preparing leaders capable of effecting environmental change. By integrating Citizen Science and practical experiences in environmental conservation into school programs and activities, we are working to create an ecosystem that combines knowledge and action to achieve a green economy, in line with the UAE Vision 2030. Our partnership with Emirates Nature-WWF provides an opportunity to strategically expand the scope of the program, ensuring that our combined efforts and cooperation protect our natural heritage and advance a green and sustainable future for future generations.' The new Connect with Nature Field Trip Series for schools will accommodate 2,000 students annually, offering participants a unique opportunity to work alongside conservationists and environmental experts as citizen scientists. From venturing knee-deep into muddy mangroves to measure the growth of new saplings to kayaking across the nation's vibrant coastal areas and shaping environmental policies, these field trips are designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for nature while also contributing to conservation impact. Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director of Environment Information Science and Outreach Management said: 'At EAD, we recognise that the path to a sustainable future starts with education and active participation. The 5-year strategy for Connect with Nature is a testament to our unwavering commitment to equipping young minds with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to become future environmental leaders. By incorporating citizen science and conservation into school programmes, we are fostering a generation that not only understands the importance of protecting our ecosystems but is also empowered to take meaningful action. We are confident that their contributions will be instrumental in realising our shared sustainability vision.' Laila Mostafa Abdullatif said: 'Connect with Nature was founded with a simple vision of inspiring young people to experience, celebrate and safeguard nature in the UAE. Over five years, we have seen firsthand how time spent in nature – learning about the environment and actively protecting it – has had a profound impact on the nation's youth, motivating them to pursue green careers and advocate for sustainability on the local and global stage. During this period, the programme has inspired more than 14,000 youth to volunteer over 32,000 hours of work for the environment, through 250 citizen science events and activities. Today, with the launch of our new five-year strategy, we are excited to inspire similar connections amongst school students and nature and welcome our newest changemakers to the movement.' The Connect with Nature Field Trips Series is open to students aged 9 to 18 across public and private schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra Region. Parents, teachers and educators can learn more about the programme and school field trips at the Connect with Nature website. About Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) Established in 1996, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is committed to protecting and enhancing air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of our desert and marine ecosystem. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, we embrace international best practice, innovation and hard work to institute effective policy measures. We seek to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of our national agenda. About Emirates Nature-WWF: Emirates Nature-WWF is an environmental NGO charity established to conserve the United Arab Emirates' natural heritage and build a future where people and nature thrive. The organization was founded in 2001 by our Honorary Founder and President, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Governing Board of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, as a legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed's vision for the United Arab Emirates. For two decades, Emirates Nature-WWF has been a prominent and active partner in environmental conservation in the MENA region. We work in association with WWF, one of the world's largest and most respected independent conservation organizations. As a local conservation think-tank and pioneers of the 'Leaders of Change' programme, the world's first- ever digital membership platform for the environment – we empower, convene and mobilize civil society, government entities and businesses to support the UAE's sustainability agenda and deliver transformative impact at scale for the benefit of people and planet alike.
Mid East Info
05-02-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
du celebrates UAE National Environment Day with a cleanup and hiking initiative in Fujairah - Middle East Business News and Information
Employees working together to preserve the natural beauty of Fujairah's landscape aligned with du's pledge to uphold environmental sustainability and foster a culture of care for the planet among its workforce. Dubai, UAE, February,2025: du, the leading telecom and digital services provider, demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) by organizing a voluntary cleanup and hiking activity in Hayl Wadi in Fujairah to mark the UAE National Environment Day. du employees came forward to contribute to the nation's vision for a greener future, collecting more than 150 kgs of litter during the clean up, mainly plastic bags and bottles that can harm local wildlife and nature. The event also reflects upon du's support of the nation's ambitions as the UAE celebrates the 'Year of Community' in 2025. Actions to boost sustainability awareness and social development lie at the core of du's vision, leading to initiatives that invigorate collaboration and create shared experiences that benefit society at large. Adel AlRais, Head of Corporate Communication & Protocol at du said: 'We, at du, understand that businesses play a pivotal role in sustainability and community development. In the Year of Community, our actions are aligned with driving considerable strides in awareness and engaging our employees to take meaningful collective action towards environmental protection. We will continue our efforts to integrate sustainability into everything we do, contribute to the well-being of the UAE's ecosystem and highlight the importance of personal accountability for our environment. du has consistently been at the forefront of implementing initiatives designed to cultivate environmentally cautious behaviour, including the introduction of 100% recyclable bags in retail stores, employing hybrid energy solutions, embracing eBilling and instituting robust office waste recycling programs. du's hands-on environmental activities fall within the wider ambit of the company's strategic CSR initiatives. This effort underlines the importance of volunteering, sustainability, and environmental consciousness, which are key drivers for a sustainable future. About du: du adds life to life with a comprehensive portfolio of mobile, fixed, broadband, entertainment services, and fintech solutions. Through a digital-first approach powered by ultra-reliable fiber and 5G technology, du delivers bespoke solutions leveraging cloud computing, AI-driven analytics, advanced cybersecurity, and IoT integration. As a trusted digital telco enabler spearheading the UAE's digital transformation, we collaborate with a dynamic partner ecosystem to propel industries and society toward operational excellence, shaping a more connected and digitally advanced future across the region.
