The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has been recognised with the Gold Award in the Best Waste Diversion/Reduction Initiative (Government Sector) category at the 6th edition of the Middle East Waste & Recycling (MEWAR) Awards.

The award recognises EAD’s ongoing implementation of appropriate waste diversion/reduction initiatives and projects in Abu Dhabi, and reflects its commitment to sustainability through an innovative approach to waste management, positioning the emirate as a regional leader in environmental responsibility.

The MEWAR Awards, a benchmark in the Middle East's sustainability landscape, celebrate outstanding achievements and best practices in waste management, recycling, and resource recovery. The 6th edition brought together leaders and innovators to recognise transformative efforts related to environmental challenges and subjects in the public and private sectors across 17 different categories.

EAD’s award-winning initiative reflects its dedication to achieving net-zero waste by 2041, an ambitious goal set out in the Abu Dhabi Waste Management Strategy. This comprehensive strategy encompasses pioneering projects and initiatives targeting multiple sectors to reduce waste generation, improve recycling rates, and foster a circular economy. The recognition highlights EAD's leadership in aligning with global sustainability standards and federal and local targets, while also promoting environmental stewardship.

Faisal Al Hammadi, Executive Director of the Environmental Quality Sector at EAD, said: “It is such an honour to be recognised for our efforts in waste management by such a prestigious magazine and its team of waste management experts. This achievement reflects the forward-thinking vision of Abu Dhabi's leadership, whose unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in shaping the emirate's sustainability journey. By following their directions, EAD has successfully implemented robust policies and strategic initiatives that address waste management challenges while fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. This recognition motivates us to continue innovating and driving sustainable solutions that support Abu Dhabi's vision for a cleaner future.”

Salem Mubarak Al Breiki, Division Director of Waste Management at EAD, said: “This award is a testament to Abu Dhabi's unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation in waste management. Through strategic initiatives and cutting-edge projects, EAD aims to create a transformative model in the emirate of Abu Dhabi that not only minimises waste but also ensures a more sustainable future for our communities. We are proud to lead this effort and to be recognised by such a prestigious platform.”

In its efforts to enhance waste management in the emirate, EAD actively reviewed the regulatory instruments to support a more robust and future-ready waste management framework. These regulatory updates are designed to address emerging challenges and promote the circular economy through effective legislation. The agency has been at the forefront of this initiative, developing and enacting key regulations, such as the Integrated Waste Management Regulation and Waste Classification System, which are playing a crucial role in improving waste management practices across the emirate.

The award’s judging panel also considered EAD's innovative strategy and long-term vision for sustainability, bolstered by its milestones that encompass infrastructure development, including the establishment of new waste treatment facilities, the development of Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) and waste-to-energy projects, and the goal of closing all landfills by 2026 and replacing them with sanitary landfills. Deep analysis and benchmarking guide the success of these initiatives, supported by strong public-private partnerships, ensuring the impact and scalability of the agency's efforts.

A waste segregation scheme for high-rise buildings piloted by EAD has provided valuable insights and opportunities for future expansion. In addition, the agency has developed an implementation plan for six incentive programmes to further drive circular economy principles that reward the reduction of waste generation and increase recycling and treatment.