Contest launched to encourage students' creative thinking to ‘Recycle and Innovate’

The Centre of Waste Management – Abu Dhabi, Tadweer, in association with the Abu Dhabi Education Council and Dulsco, has organised its ‘Recycle and Innovate’ competition at the International Community School in Abu Dhabi.

The event comes in line with ‘UAE Innovation Week’ which has the objective of building awareness around a sustainable, environmentally-friendly lifestyle, while encouraging creative thinking towards new recycling means and approaches.

Fatima Al Harmoudi, Public Awareness Officer at Tadweer, said, "Preserving the environment is sustaining the future of our community and children. It is impressive to see how creative the future generation is; we have witnessed tremendous innovations of which we are proud. Environmental awareness and education have always been of a great importance on a national level, with numerous initiatives led by the government."

The main highlight of the event was the Green Competition, inspired by ‘UAE Innovation Week,’ where students were empowered to become green warriors and help enhance the communities’ view on waste management and recycling.

"School recycling competitions incentivize students, teachers and parents alike, while encouraging them to apply new waste management techniques in their day to day lives. Such events drive meaningful actions towards recycling, and elevate overall awareness about environmental conservation, waste management and recycling. Educating the students at an earlier age helps them on the long run to lead an environmental friendly lifestyle," said Nasser Khamis, ADEC’s Extra-Curricular Activities Section Manager.

"It was a pleasure teaming up with Tadweer and ADEC in our efforts to go green. Involving the younger generation to understand the environmental implications of waste, and the importance of recycling will help us achieve our objectives and reduce waste by the maximum levels. We hope that this initiative motivates educational institutions across the region to adopt a practical approach to conserving the environment," said Indranil Dutta, Director, Dulsco Abu Dhabi.

The panel of judges included representatives from Tadweer, ADEC and Dulsco, and prizes, trophies and certificates were distributed to the 3 winning teams. All contestants received participation certificates for their efforts and interest in joining in the conservation of the environment through recycling initiatives.