In a quiet household, Maria found herself staring at a stack of encyclopedias, once cherished by her children, now collecting dust in her attic. Confronted with the challenge of disposing of them responsibly, she found the perfect solution in the ‘Eco-Swap’ initiative. Meanwhile, Rashida, a young student eager to bring a touch of history into her home, swapped a beautifully preserved antique lamp for the books. This exchange not only breathed new life into old possessions but also underscored the beauty of sustainable living.

Eco-Swap is a unique initiative launched by the Dawoodi Bohra community in Dubai, with the aim of reducing, reusing and recycling waste generated in homes, offices and community centres. Launched in alignment with the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, which promotes collective action for environmental conservation, the two-day event was held at MSB Private School. The initiative, a part of the Dawoodi Bohras’ global philanthropic arm 'Project Rise', encourages change and builds advocates at the grassroots level.

Mustafa Fefco, a Project Rise volunteer in Dubai, said, “From cleanup drives to waste recycling events, the Dawoodi Bohras in the UAE are actively engaged in fostering a healthier and greener environment. Through initiatives such as Eco-Swap, we are not only reducing waste but also cultivating a culture of sustainability that resonates deeply with our values. Our leader, Sultan al Bohra Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, inspires us to take action and make a meaningful difference in environmental protection and conservation.”

Community members of all ages contributed over 3500 kg of used, unused, or unwanted items, ranging from clothes, books, and household goods to e-waste. Over 160 electronic devices, including mobile phones and home appliances were also contributed, quickly sorted and made available for swapping, ensuring no contribution went to waste.

Participants were rewarded with Eco-Swap coins for their contributions, which were redeemed for plant seeds and small plants, fostering eco-conscious behaviour. The coins also granted access to the garage swap, where participants freely exchanged items with their peers, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. The community partnered with Enviroserve to manage the sorting and recycling of unused waste items.

"Decluttering my home and removing legacy waste not only made my home feel lighter and more inviting, but it also gave me a sense of purpose. Knowing that my actions contribute to a healthier environment and promote sustainability in society fills me with joy," expressed Maria, who donated a set of encyclopedias.

As the UAE continues its journey towards a sustainable future, initiatives such as Eco-Swap play a vital role in supporting waste reduction and environmental conservation. By engaging communities in moving away from a linear to a circular economy, the country is fostering a culture of resourcefulness and collaboration that not only minimises waste but also maximises the value of shared natural resources.