Middle East Waste Summit 2009 implements a truly 'green' example

In line with the Summit's focus on waste management and recycling solutions, the organizers as well as the venue and platinum sponsor, Tadweer, have joined forces to take all the necessary measures to minimize waste throughout the duration of the event.

Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Minister of Finance and Industry and Chairman of Dubai Municipality, the Summit aims to be as 'green' as possible.

Dubai Airport Expo Centre will employ recycling companies during the summit to take care of the waste generated by visitors and contractors. Additionally, Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) has appointed the MEWS as a site for their annual 'Can Collection Drive' on May 28.

EEG has a designated area at the venue's car park where companies and the general public can bring their used aluminium cans. Top collectors will be recognized during EEG's Prize Giving Ceremony in June and all participants of the drive are invited to attend.

Tadweer will provide recycling bins for papers, plastics and cans which they will recycle at their plant. Lina Chaaban, EnviroCare Manager of Tadweer Waste Treatment, said, "We hope to underscore the challenges facing waste management in the region and share our experiences with international practitioners. As a waste management company, our message is always to preserve our environment. Our participation highlights our commitment to efficient waste management and validates our message to all the participants and exhibitors this year."

Turret Middle East, the event organizer, has prepared a host of 'green' initiatives such as using recycled paper for all printed materials, providing bio-degradable bags for visitors, utilizing recycled materials for lanyards, and supplying bins for the recycling of lanyards and badges at the summit. Moreover, they will collect all the discarded cardboards and hand them over to Mil-tek Middle East to compress live at the event. The compacted waste will then be given to Tadweer for recycling after the event.

Richard Hease, Chairman of Turret Middle East, said, "The Summit's first year has been an education in learning how to build a sustainable event with local suppliers and contractors. Every business has to make a start and we are proud of our achievements this year. However, a great challenge is still ahead of us and we remain hopeful that companies and individuals will do their part starting today. From simple steps, we can start to build a more sustainable tomorrow through eco-friendly practices."