Under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment Emirates Environmental Group concludes the 19th cycle of the annual Clean Up UAE drive, creating further awareness about environmental issues in the UAE

Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), the leading NGO devoted to protecting the environment through the means of education, action programmes and community involvement, has concluded one of its flagship events, the 19th annual Clean Up UAE drive, held under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Organised in association with Dubai Municipality and Seih Al Salam Protected Area Management, the event drew the participation of His Excellency Sultan Alwan, Acting Undersecretary of Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. A total of 5,254 participants joined the cleanup at Al Qudra, Dubai Industrial City and Ruwais, Khalifa Port, Industrial City in Abu Dhabi, covering an area of more than 23 kilometres and collecting nearly 13 tonnes of waste across the two Emirates.

EEG opened the event with a flag-hoisting ceremony and speeches on sustainability were given by MOCCAE and EEG. Shoemart, the main sponsor; McDonald’s UAE and Dabur, the co-sponsors; Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) and Dubai Investments, the support sponsors also supported the event.

His Excellency Sultan Alwan said: “Protecting the environment and sustaining its natural resources and biodiversity are strategic priorities for MOCCAE. In this context, we work to ensure a safe and sustainable future for everyone through driving effective environmental action that integrates legislation with on-the-ground programmes and initiatives. In line with the directives of the wise UAE leadership, we are keen to involve the community in environmental protection efforts, therefore we are proud to support Clean Up UAE, and applaud the work of EEG.”

Mrs. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, the Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, said: “At Emirates Environmental Group, our aim is to support the UAE government with its larger goals and objectives of sustainability. Apart from this, we also work towards creating awareness for the public and private sector towards the existing sustainability issues in the region. We would like to thank everyone for their efforts and contribution towards the 19th annual edition of this initiative. It is important that we as a society consciously come together to work towards a better tomorrow for everyone.”

EEG distributed various clean-up gear, biodegradable trash bags and accessories to the participants to ensure everyone’s safety. The NGO also adhered to all safety measures issued by the UAE health authorities, such as temperature checks, and provided PPE kits, including sanitisers provided by Dabur, masks and gloves, to all the participants.