Q:  The EAD introduced the single-use plastics ban in 2022 and styrofoam ban in 2024. How has the progress been in Abu Dhabi?

The ban on single-use plastic bags, effective since June 1, 2022, has achieved remarkable results. There has been up to 95% decline in the number of bags distributed at cash counters and in terms of weight, about 78-80% of the overall plastic bag usage has been avoided. This translates to more than 1200 tonnes of plastic bags being avoided in a year. 

The styrofoam ban applies to those items that are avoidable and have clear alternatives. These include cups, lids, plates and beverage containers made of expanded polystyrene. However, certain items like trays used for poultry, meat, and dairy products, as well as medical-related styrofoam products, are exempted. We worked closely with the private sector, retailers, and producers for a smooth implementation, much like we did with the plastic bag ban.

Q: What has been your observation regarding behavioural change in people since the ban?

The behavioural change has been remarkable, especially with the use of bags. In big supermarkets, you can see people relying more on reusable bags or even avoiding bags altogether by carrying items directly to their cars. As for styrofoam products, consumers simply don’t find such products on the shelves —they have been replaced with alternatives like paper plates and cups. 

Starting January 1, 2026, the UAE will impose a blanket ban on several types of single-use plastic products, including plastic cups, lids, cutlery, forks, knives, and spoons, plates, food containers and boxes. There will be a ban on styrofoam as well. This will be a significant milestone. 

Q: Recently, EAD, in collaboration with key stakeholders, installed Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) across Abu Dhabi. How has that contributed to reducing plastic waste and increasing recycling?

The number of RVMs has exceeded 120, which shows the private sector's strong interest in this direction. These machines collect bottles from high footfall areas and contribute to recycling efforts, although their impact on overall plastic recovery is minor. Last year, we set a target to collect 20 million bottles through these RVMs, and we are on the right path to achieve that. Additionally, we have collected over 1,000 tonnes of bottles from residential areas in Abu Dhabi, which are being recycled into plastic flakes and reintegrated into production. We aim to increase this number in 2024-2025. It is to be noted that in the UAE individuals consume between 400 to 600 bottles per person per year. 

Q: How do you see the momentum in the UAE, with various stakeholders working together to tackle plastic pollution?

We couldn’t have achieved what we have without the private sector's commitment, including big retailers who voluntarily started charging for reusable bags, which contributed dramatically to the reduction in the consumption of plastic bags at the cash counters. The Circular Packaging Association, with its key players, has also played a significant role in regulatory developments.

The third group I want to highlight is the producers. With the support of the Industrial Development Bureau, many plastic producers in Abu Dhabi and across the country actively engaged with us, particularly in shaping the specifications for reusable boxes. Recently, they have also been involved in discussions around styrofoam. 

Finally, I want to mention the contribution of online delivery platforms. We have been collaborating with them on various levels. We are seeing a promising precedent of cooperation that will continue as we work on piloting projects ahead of the full ban in 2026 by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). 

Q: What are the challenges in reducing plastic waste in Abu Dhabi, and how do you plan to address them?

We are not fighting plastic itself but single-use products, including plastic. Plastic waste is a major challenge, but it holds value when recovered and reused. We are working with MOCCAE and other stakeholders on enhancing the utilisation of Extended Producer Responsibility and allowing the use of recyclable content in packaging, and recovering valuable waste. We are still in the early stages, but we are making steady progress.

Q: What promising technological innovations do you see in reducing plastic waste in the UAE?

Technology and innovation are integral to sustainability solutions. We are seeing innovative solutions like decentralised water bottling systems for reusable bottles and technology-driven systems to manage reusable foodware in fast food chains and shopping malls. Technology can play a major role in capturing plates, cups, bottles and incentivising their reuse and recycling.  We are working on a pilot project that leverages these technologies. 

Are there any initiatives that the Environment Agency is taking to tackle marine plastic pollution?

We are involved in several research projects, including using remote sensing to identify pollution hotspots. We are also closely monitoring international negotiations such as the Plastics Treaty, which could significantly impact our approach.

Any other comments: 

Abu Dhabi is a first mover, and being in this position comes with its challenges. When you follow others, you can learn from their mistakes and avoid them. But as a first mover, you must bear the consequences of testing new technologies, policies, and regulations. Many of the actions we have taken on single-use plastics have been implemented elsewhere, but in some areas, we are leading the way. It’s an exciting journey, and we are pleased to see other Emirates following the same path. This national effort will hopefully grow into a regional one.