26-02-2025
ESO Sustainability Fair 2025 Innovation, integration, inspiration
Muscat – Twelve schools from Muscat, Suhar, and Sur participated in the ESO Sustainability Fair 2025, highlighting the efforts of young innovators striving to make a lasting environmental impact.
The lush lawns of the Sheraton Oman Hotel in Muscat were transformed on Tuesday into a hub of creativity and sustainability, as students, businesses, and environmental advocates gathered for the ESO Sustainability Fair 2025. This year marked a new chapter for the event, with the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) taking over as host from the Oman American Business Council (OABC)—a transition that underscores ESO's deep commitment to environmental conservation, education, and community engagement.
Summing up the spirit of the event, Aditi Gupta of Indian School Wadi Kabir (Cambridge) said, 'My project is not just a project. It is an awareness campaign. My team and I want to showcase that small steps can have a great impact in the long run. Additionally, when incorporated as a behavioural change in kids, the future is sure to be green.' The students showcased impressive, forward-thinking solutions with the potential to make a real impact.
The Sustainability Fair has long served as a platform for young minds to explore and present solutions that address pressing environmental issues. The event was founded by Marla Valdez, who continues to play a pivotal role in its success. Reflecting on this year's edition, she shared:
'The young teams have been working on their projects under the guidance of their science teachers or Eco Club facilitators, who have helped streamline their participation. Seeing their passion and dedication gives us confidence in the next generation of sustainability leaders.' Marla Valdez – Founder
Embracing the concept of sustainability and aligning with the 13 Unesco Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the participating projects explored green electricity generation, the use of IoT (Internet of Things) for smarter agriculture, and one particularly unique initiative – banana-based innovation.
Among the many innovative ideas presented, one particularly unique project stood out – banana-based eco-friendly hair extensions. The International School of Oman showcased a method of transforming banana stems into sustainable hair extensions. The process involved cutting the stems lengthwise, drying, boiling, bleaching, and washing them to extract fibrous husks, which were then dyed and crafted into biodegradable hair extensions lasting up to two months! International School of Oman innovators with banana fiber hair extensions!
ABA Oman International School's project focused on Oman's mangroves, which play a crucial role in coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. However, research on mangroves remains limited due to funding and expertise gaps. Team leader Sarah Luisa-Emmer explained, 'It begins with small, practical steps. By rethinking how we use materials and consume energy, we can create a more sustainable future for Oman.' The school aims to bridge this research gap by developing a 'Mangrove Monitoring App' using Google Earth, conducting field studies, supporting regeneration efforts, and raising awareness about the vital role mangroves play in protecting Oman's coastline from erosion and storms. ABA Oman International School with their research backed Mangrove Conservation project
ESO Board Member Dr Ali Akaak, who also served as a judge, reflected on the event's significance: 'We are honoured by the trust placed in ESO to host this important initiative, which aligns perfectly with our mission of environmental conservation and community engagement. Seeing the collaboration between students, SMEs, and sustainability-focused projects was truly inspiring. This event has great potential for growth, and we look forward to expanding its reach to include more private schools across Oman.'
The enthusiasm and dedication displayed throughout the day reaffirmed the importance of fostering sustainability at an early stage. Judges noted the depth of research, creativity, and commitment demonstrated by the students, reinforcing the power of youth-led innovation in shaping a more sustainable future. ESO Board Member Dr Ali Akaak
Beyond student projects, the fair welcomed a diverse group of sustainability-driven organisations, SMEs, and startups, all working towards a greener Oman. Participants included be'ah, Zalul, Biqool Tech, Move Green, GUTech, WhiteWall Digital Solutions, Global Shapers Muscat, Muscat Cats & Dogs, and Animal Rescue Oman. Each showcased their own contributions to sustainability—whether in waste management, clean technology, digital innovation, or conservation—highlighting how different sectors can work together to drive meaningful environmental change. Environment Society of Oman
Bauer Nimr, the event's overall sponsor, has been a dedicated supporter since the fair's inception. The company, known for developing the world's largest commercial constructed wetland in Oman, continues to set a benchmark for large-scale environmental solutions. Five Elements Environmental Services joined as a supporting partner, reinforcing the importance of private sector involvement in environmental initiatives. Hopibi – The litter warrior
The Marriott Business Group reaffirmed its commitment to the event, with Sheraton Oman serving as the host venue this year. This follows last year's successful edition at the W Muscat, which remained actively involved in this year's gathering. Apex Media, the event's official media partner, showcased their mascot Hopibi who created awareness about the negative effects of littering. The media house also played a key role in amplifying the fair's impact and reaching a wider audience.
Muscat Cats & Dogs
Here are the winners and here is what they said!
Most innovative idea: International School of Oman
Project name: Agriculture Culture!
We are students of the International School of Oman Eco Club: Israa Taherzadeh, Qatar Al Nada Al Amri, Khawla Al Mushaifri, and Layan Al Mahrouqi, guided by our teacher, Katie al Hodali. Our project transforms agricultural byproducts—banana stems and coconut husks—into biodegradable products like eco-friendly hair extensions, sustainable pots, and candles. This reduces waste, promotes sustainability, and empowers local communities, especially women, through job creation and skills development. Through teamwork, we've realised there are no limits to what we can achieve. By collaborating effectively, we've combined our strengths, fostering creativity and innovation. Sustainability is not just a choice but a responsibility. By repurposing waste, we can positively impact the environment and empower communities for a better future.
Most practical implementation: ABA Oman International School
Project name : Mangrove Guardians!
We are the ECOSOC team from ABA Oman International School, consisting of Sarah Luisa-Emmer (Team leader), Nara Molavi (Research lead), Angela Jabbour (Presentation lead), Dylan Le Ribeus (Model design), Sami Al-Busaidi (Model construction), Alexandra Serret, and Malaak Mohamed.
Our project focuses on mangroves in Oman, vital for coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. Despite their importance, research on mangroves is limited due to lack of funding, historical focus, and expertise. We aim to address this by developing a Mangrove Monitoring App, conducting field research, supporting regeneration, and raising awareness of their ecological role in protecting Oman's coastline.
We learned the value of collaboration, with each team member contributing their skills—coding, research, and fieldwork. Effective communication and teamwork were essential to our success, and this project has been a whole-school initiative towards sustainability. Through this project, we recognised the importance of conserving Oman's ecosystem, not only for environmental reasons but also for its cultural and historical significance.
Best presentation: ABQ Azzan International School
Project name : Pioneering a sustainable future through scientific innovation, upcycling, and community engagement.
Our team includes Khalid al Aamri and Ahmed al Mahruqi (Leads for Scientific Innovation – Automated Greenhouse), Ahad al Riyami (Lead for Creative Upcycling), and Kiana Ebrahimi and Weaam Al Mughairi (Leads for Sustainable Fashion), supported by Aimaan al Saadi, Gustav Tredoux, Yousif Abdoun, Yara al Mandhari, Mariam al Balushi, and Maryam Abdullah.
We focus on sustainability through scientific innovation, upcycling, community engagement, and sustainable fashion. Our project includes an automated greenhouse that optimises plant growth and conserves energy, interactive games made from upcycled materials to reduce screen time, and a Sustainable Fashion Initiative using natural dyes and repurposed fabrics. Our community efforts promote recycling and ecosystem restoration.
Through teamwork, we developed collaboration, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Every member contributed their strengths to refine our ideas and maximise impact.
Our key message is: 'At ABQ, 'We Care.' Small actions in the community can lead to significant global environmental changes. Sustainability thrives on innovation, creativity, and collective responsibility for a greener future.'
Overall Winner: Hay Al Sharooq International School, Sur
Project name : Kulna environmental club
As members of Kulna Environmental Club, we are dedicated to sustainability and preserving Oman's natural beauty. Our team focuses on impactful initiatives, including a greenhouse with a hydroponic system, a composting and recycling programme, and various environmental projects. Through these efforts, we have achieved significant milestones in promoting eco-conscious living.
More than just a project, our club is a movement towards sustainability and environmental preservation in Oman. We work on practical, life-changing actions that encourage a mindset shift, inspiring our community to contribute to a greener Oman.
Through teamwork, we have learnt that our goals cannot be achieved without collaboration. We believe that Oman's nature and environment are worth every effort and deserve our care and commitment to ensure they remain in the best condition.
Our project emphasises that preserving Oman's natural beauty and biodiversity requires continuous effort. We aim to reduce food waste by transforming it into useful compost, helping to protect our environment. Additionally, we are committed to tackling plastic waste, which poses a severe threat to nature. By taking these steps, we hope to create lasting change and a more sustainable future for Oman.
