Abu Dhabi: Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, announced the UAE's ongoing initiatives to tackle plastic pollution at both national and international levels. In her statement for World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5th, she highlighted the UAE's unwavering commitment to environmental protection, drawing inspiration from the nation's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Dahak emphasized the UAE's dedication to preserving natural heritage and envisioning a future with flourishing ecosystems. This year's World Environment Day calls for unified action against plastic pollution, prompting the UAE to establish a comprehensive system for effective plastic product management. By January 1, 2026, the UAE plans to implement a full ban on importing, producing, and trading single-use plastic products, following the initial ban on plastic bags set for 2024.Dr. Al Dahak highlighted Erth Zayed Philanthr opies' Clean Rivers initiative, which addresses riverine plastic pollution by empowering communities and fostering innovative solutions for plastic-free waterways. She also pointed out the UAE's Circular Economy Policy as a crucial element in this transformation, focusing on optimal resource utilization in sectors like green infrastructure and responsible consumption.The policy aims to reduce plastic waste through sustainable packaging and recycling solutions. Dr. Al Dahak urged individuals to actively participate in eliminating unnecessary plastic from daily life, contributing to a vibrant and resilient environment. She called for a renewed focus on sustaining ecosystems and emphasized the community's role in building a greener future, aligning with this year's theme, Beat Plastic Pollution.
