Dubai: Environmental solutions for everyday needs are becoming increasingly available in the UAE. Everything from recycling batteries to light bulbs, buying tree-free paper made from algae, non-toxic wallpaper to carpet tiles or even water coolers that condensate humidity in the air to produce clear, clean drinking water are now possible.
In the past, getting environmentally friendly household items involved buying abroad and shipping. But today many small businesses offering these solutions have set up in the UAE.
They will come together to exhibit their wares at the first Future Green fair next week, held in partnership with Goumbook and the Energy and Environment Park (Enpark).
All products on display are currently available in the UAE and can be found on the goumbook.com directory that was launched earlier this year to help consumers and retailers source products, services and sustainable raw materials.
Randala Jishi Anabtawi, co-founder of Goumbook said the fair is an affordable platform for small businesses to showcase what is available to UAE residents."
"One of the most common questions we receive is ‘Where can I recycle?' So we will have a recycler's corner with bins and information on all the [recycling depots] available to the public," she said.
Sponsored by Nissan, Future Green visitors will be able to get more information on the new Nissan Leaf, a fully automatic car which could be making its way to the region in the next few years.
Ekotribe, a distributor of green gadgets and appliances is another main sponsor and participant bringing the number of exhibitors to more than 35.
"Because there are more businesses that are focusing on green products here it's finally creating some competition amongst them and providing more choices for consumers," said Tatiana Antonelli Abella, Goumbook's other co-founder.
"But just because something is related to nature does not necessarily mean that it is environmentally friendly. People still need to read and inform themselves," said Abella.
Growing niche
"The green movement is still very new," added Anabtawi, "but those who are interested enough have carved out a niche and it's definitely growing."
Future Green will offer visitors a broad range of eco-friendly products, technologies and services from clothing and accessories to education, energy, home and décor or transport all under one roof.
Tasters of organic coffee and snacks will be available from Raw Coffee and the Organic Foods and Café.
The details
- Where: Knowledge Village Conference Centre
- When: November 1 from 9am to 3pm
- Entry: Free
- Bring: Books, old batteries, light bulbs, ink cartridges, papers, plastic, cans and e-waste such as mobile phones, video games, PCs to drop in recycling bins on the day
Visit: www.goumbook.com
