Dubai: The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) recently celebrated the 30th cycle of its Can Collection Day, themed 'Turn Your Can into Climate Action', emphasizing the importance of recycling as a national movement for climate responsibility. Coinciding with Valentine's Day, the event saw enthusiastic participation from communities across the UAE, highlighting the message that climate action begins with everyday responsibility.
According to Emirates News Agency, thousands of participants, including schools, universities, corporations, hospitality establishments, government entities, and families from all seven emirates, converged at six collection sites across the nation. The event resulted in the collection of 11,963 kg of aluminium cans, contributing to a total of 490,962 kg collected since the campaign's inception. This effort has helped prevent approximately 180 metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions.
The EEG emphasizes that recycling aluminium can save up to 95 percent of the energy required to produce new material, significantly reducing environmental impact and supporting the UAE's Net Zero 2050 strategy. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, noted that the Can Collection Day has shown the strength of shared environmental responsibility over the past 30 years. This year's theme reflects the powerful truth that meaningful climate solutions start with everyday choices.
The campaign received wide participation from the private sector, aligning operational practices with national sustainability priorities. By engaging students and families, the initiative promotes long-term behavioural change and intergenerational environmental responsibility. The campaign also aligns with the UAE's Year of Family theme, 'Growing in Unity', reinforcing shared responsibility across generations.
EEG extended its gratitude to its government partners, including Dubai Municipality; Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; Dubai Sustainable Tourism; Department of Tourism and Culture of Ajman Municipality; and Fujairah Environment Authority. Corporate logistics partners such as American International School Abu Dhabi, Abela and Co, and several others played a crucial role, while media partners like Al Murad Group and biz Today, among others, provided significant support.
As EEG aims to collect 42,000 kg of aluminium cans this year, they have already achieved 29.5 percent of their target, urging businesses and individuals to continue integrating responsible consumption into their daily lives.
