Ibrahim Al Ali’s journey with Abu Dhabi Waste Management Company (now Tadweer Group), started almost alongside its establishment, reflecting his deep involvement and contribution to its growth. Taking us through the history of Tadweer, he said that in 2005, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi transferred waste management responsibilities from the municipalities to specialised entities with the issuance of law number 21. 

In 2010, law number 17 established a dedicated center, initially known as the Abu Dhabi Waste Management Center, to focus on a more centralised and efficient approach to waste management. This marked a significant step in enhancing the Emirate's waste management capabilities, including the establishment of comprehensive facilities for recycling, composting, and hazardous waste treatment. 

Key milestones

One of the key achievements, recollected by Al Ali, was the development of the first integrated  “Waste Management Master Plan in Abu Dhabi” in 2013. “This plan aimed to provide a holistic approach to managing all types of waste across the Emirate,” said Al Ali, who played a significant role in the development of the master plan. 

By 2017, Tadweer Group had implemented several groundbreaking projects, including public-private partnership (PPP) models for managing hazardous and medical waste and the conversion of used cooking oil into biofuel. 

Al Ali emphasised that Tadweer Group's vision has evolved from being a conventional waste management service provider to a key player in the regional and global waste management sectors. The company's rebranding and restructuring, in alignment with Abu Dhabi Holding's broader strategy, have positioned it to not only serve the local market but also become a competitive force internationally. The Group has set a target of diverting 80% of waste away from landfills and has been working with international partners to adopt advanced technology in its operations.  

Challenges and Opportunities

Al Ali highlighted the fluctuating levels of public awareness about proper waste segregation, influenced by the transient nature of the population and varying cultural backgrounds. He also noted the importance of balancing stringent environmental regulations with the need to support economic growth and industrial development. 

To address these challenges, Tadweer Group focuses on comprehensive policy development, innovative financial instruments, and enhanced public awareness campaigns, he said, adding that the integration of new technologies and a commitment to research and development (R&D) are also critical components of their strategy. The company's partnerships with universities and research centers are aimed at fostering innovation and ensuring that Abu Dhabi remains at the forefront of waste management technologies.

The future of waste management 

Looking ahead, Al Ali anticipates significant changes in the waste management industry over the next decade. The revised master plan includes new key performance indicators (KPIs) to more accurately measure progress, such as specific targets for recycling rates. The concept of a circular economy and extended producer responsibility (EPR) are increasingly being integrated into the regulatory framework, driven by the UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.

Tadweer Group's approach to sustainability is not limited to waste diversion. The company is also exploring sustainable aviation fuel and other advanced technologies to further reduce environmental impact. Al Ali believes that by leveraging innovation, partnerships, and a clear strategic vision, Tadweer Group will continue to be a game-changer in the waste management sector.

Al Ali's passion for excellence is not just about meeting organisational mandates but also about aligning with national goals and contributing to the UAE's vision of a sustainable future. He has participated as an excellence accessor in Dubai Government Excellence Program (DGEP) and Sheikh Khalifa Government Excellence Program (SKGEP) locally and internationally. His role as an excellence assessor has provided him with a broader perspective on achieving organizational efficiency and effectiveness, he noted.