Tadweer (The Center of Waste Management – Abu Dhabi) in association with the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) and Dulsco, organized its ‘Recycle and Innovate’ competition at the International Community School in Abu Dhabi. The event was targeted for students across the country with the objective of building awareness around a sustainable environmental friendly lifestyle, while encouraging creative thinking towards new recycling means and approaches.
“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”, said Fatima Al Harmoudi, Public Awareness Officer at Tadweer.
The main highlight of the event was the Green Competition, inspired by the ‘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 Mr. 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 importance of recycling will help us achieve our objectives and reducing waste to the maximum levels. We hope that this initiative motivates educational institutions across the region to adopt a practical approach to conserve the environment,” said Indranil Dutta, Director, Dulsco Abu Dhabi.
‘Recycle and Innovate’ contest is yet another initiative to bring out a recycling culture amongst the children in the UAE. The contest targeted boys from all UAE schools; every school nominated one team of 3 participants between Grade 7 and 12) who were asked to create something interesting out of recyclables such as plastic bottles, paper, cans and decorative materials that were provided at the venue. Students are also allowed to bring their own recyclables to create their piece of art. As per the guidelines, new items cannot be used and students can bring their own decoration materials - paint, glitter, and ribbons. Teachers were offering guidance and monitoring the competition.
The panel of judges included representatives from Tadweer, ADEC and Dulsco, and prizes, trophy and certificates were distributed on the 3 winning teams. All contestants received participation certificates for their efforts and interest to join in the conservation of the environment through recycling initiatives.
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