Abu Dhabi: The emirate of Abu Dhabi’s most sustainable schools have decreased average waste generation per person from 99 grams to 55 grams per day over the last two years.
At the same time, these schools took steps to reduce daily water consumption per capita from 32.7 litres to 25.8 litres.
These gains were announced by the emirate’s environment sector regulator, the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) on Wednesday. The authority recognised the 23 most sustainable Abu Dhabi schools for their measures towards conserving the environment.
The award ceremony marked the conclusion of the EAD’s seventh Sustainable Schools Initiative, which ran from 2015 to 2017. The initiative was first introduced in 2009 to assess and improve schools’ environmental impact by empowering students and teachers.
A total of 135 schools participated in this particular edition of the initiative, said Ahmad Baharoon, executive director of environmental information, science and outreach management at the EAD. More than 3,400 students across these schools took active part in implementing environmental projects as part of the schools’ Eco Clubs. In addition, about 7,200 students also assessed their school’s environmental performance through green audits, and developed measures to improve sustainability.
“This initiative is helping to reduce schools’ ecological footprints. Just as importantly, it is changing behaviours in communities, and among a young generation that will be responsible for the future of our environmental and social welfare,” Baharoon added.
Among the winners, Al Talee’a Public School clinched the top prize in the lead school category. Al Samha Public School and the Philippine Global School were recognised for conducting the best green audits, and Al Montaha Public School and Brights Riders School undertook the best community outreach projects this cycle. Al Refa Public School in Al Ain and Mayoor School were awarded for being the best environmental educators, and Rooh Al Etihad Public School and Abu Dhabi Indian School were recognised for providing the best outdoor education.
The EAD also announced two new categories in which schools can compete in future editions of the initiative. The Environmental Innovation category will look for environmental creativity, recognising schools that implement innovative solutions to tackle climate change, reduce pollution and conserve resources. The People of Determination awards will be given to people with special needs who contribute towards a more sustainable future.
