The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) officially concluded the 29th cycle of the Emirates Recycling Awards, held in alignment with World Environment Day 2026.

The ceremony took place under the patronage and presence of H.H. Engr. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Civil Aviation Authority, Member of the Executive Council of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, and Honorary Member of the EEG.

Reflecting the global 2026 environmental directive, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” the event served as a critical benchmark for cross-sector sustainability in the region. The high-profile gathering convened senior government dignitaries, corporate executives, diplomatic officials, academic heads, and civil society leaders to honor outstanding contributions to waste diversion, material recovery, and circular economy practices across the Emirates.

A central highlight of the proceedings was the active participation of H.H. Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, who joined EEG Co-Founder and Chairperson Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi on stage to present the awards and certificates of recognition to the corporate, public, and academic winners.

His Highness’s patronage and direct involvement emphasize the government’s strategic backing of community-led environmental governance. By bridging the gap between state aviation and environmental leadership, the ceremony highlighted the growing importance of multi-sector alliance in driving the UAE’s national sustainability agenda, fostering a strict culture of resource conservation, and safeguarding long-term asset value for the country's built and natural environments.

In her opening address, EEG Co-Founder and Chairperson, Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, highlighted the urgency of climate action in today’s global context. She stated:

“We are living in a time where environmental responsibility can no longer be delayed. The signals from our planet are clear, and the need for action is immediate. The Emirates Recycling Awards stand as a reminder that sustainability is not an option—it is a shared obligation. Through collective effort, we can drive meaningful change and build a more resilient and sustainable future.”

She further emphasised the significance of 2026 being declared the Year of Family in the UAE, noting that sustainability begins at the household level.

“Just as we nurture and protect our families, we must extend that same care to our environment. The choices we make today will define the future we leave behind. True sustainability is built on shared values, responsibility, and collective action.”

Despite the ongoing global and regional challenges, the success of this year’s Awards demonstrates the resilience and commitment of stakeholders across sectors. EEG reaffirmed that sustainability efforts must continue uninterrupted, even in times of uncertainty, as they are fundamental to long-term environmental and economic stability.

The Emirates Recycling Awards remain one of EEG’s flagship initiatives, recognising outstanding contributions towards waste diversion, resource conservation, and circular economy practices.

Through its eight recycling campaigns, EEG continues to drive measurable environmental impact across the UAE.

As of 2025, EEG’s recycling programmes have achieved significant environmental benefits, including the reduction of 6,007 metric tons of CO₂ emissions, conservation of 46,387 billion BTU of energy, preservation of 11,215 cubic meters of landfill space, saving of 28,569 trees, and conservation of 16,752 gallons of gasoline.

In addition, participants successfully planted 2,266 trees, further contributing to climate action and environmental restoration efforts.

These included:

• Aluminum Cans: 38,596 kg
• Paper: 1,314,741 kg
• Printer Toners: 3,081 pcs
• Plastic: 128,458 kg
• Glass Bottles: 211,926 kg
• Mobile Phones: 4,159 pcs
• E-waste: 22,529 kg
• Scrap Metals: 20,838 kg

These results underscore the tangible impact of collective action and the strong collaboration between individuals, institutions, and organisations across the UAE.

Winners in Each Category: 

• Aluminum Cans Collection:
• Academic: Higher College of Technology Fujairah- Faseel Campus
• Individual/Family: Ibrahim Pasha
• Company/Institution: Emirates Flight Catering

• Paper Collection:
• Academic: Delhi Private School, Sharjah
• Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
• Company/Institution: Design Infinity LLC

• Toner Cartridges Collection:
• Individual/Family: Saeed Humaid Alshamsi
• Company/Institution: Novotel & Ibis World Trade Centre, Ibis One Centre Hotel Dubai

• Plastic Collection:
• Academic: Our Own High School, Dubai
• Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
• Company/Institution: Wasl Properties LLC

• Glass Bottles Collection:
• Academic: Sheikha Hissa Bint Saqr Private School
• Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
• Company/Institution: Dubai Duty Free

• Mobile Phones Collection:
• Academic: Our Own High School, Dubai
• Individual/Family: Shamma Humaid Alshamsi
• Company/Institution: Dubai Public Prosecution

• E-Waste Collection:
• Individual/Family: Mirana Gabin Mathew
• Company/Institution: Two Season Hotel & Apartments

• Scrap Metals Collection:
• Academic: Delhi Private School, Dubai
• Individual/Family: Ali Darwish Mubarak Salim Alzaabi
• Company/Institution: Citibank