UAE launches first EPR pilot to tackle electronic, packaging waste

Dubai: A six-month pilot project to manage targeted product waste under the UAE’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiative has been launched in Dubai.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tadweer Group to implement the first-of-its-kind project in the region. Primarily focusing on managing waste generated from electrical and electronic equipment, batteries, and packaging, it will be initially rolled out in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Tadweer Group will serve as the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO).

The agreement, signed in the presence of Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, and Engineer Ali Al Dhaheri, CEO of Tadweer Group, marks a major step toward building an integrated and circular waste management system in the country. The initiative is a core component of the UAE Integrated Waste Management Agenda 2023-2026.

Dr Amna highlighted that the EPR model supports the UAE’s broader sustainability goals and reflects its commitment to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We are pleased to continue our collaboration with Tadweer Group to support our goals for integrated management and safe disposal of waste, while also ensuring waste is reused optimally within the UAE’s advanced circular economy framework.”

Eng. Al Dhaheri noted that the initiative represents a major shift in accountability.
“This will play a key role in the waste journey, by holding manufacturers accountable for their role in waste creation. By piloting an EPR model, we are laying the foundation for a more accountable and resource-efficient waste management system.”

The MoU outlines joint efforts to raise public awareness, improve regulatory readiness, and assess key performance indicators throughout the pilot phase. It also supports private sector participation and investment in sustainable waste solutions.

A key highlight of the event was the signing of the EPR Pledge by 26 companies from sectors such as retail, manufacturing, and waste management.

Focus on awareness and data collection

These companies have committed to supporting the pilot by raising awareness of the project, incentivising consumers to segregate their waste and deliver it to designated collection points, and providing essential data for project management, both pre-implementation and ongoing, to assess key performance indicators and monitor collection rates.

Furthermore, these companies pledged to dedicate space and resources to efficient waste management, ensuring environmentally responsible practices in their logistics and financial planning. They also committed to processing all collected waste in an environmentally responsible way, in strict accordance with approved procedures.