Dubai’s immense economic growth in recent years has brought about significant waste management challenges to the booming emirate. To respond to the increasing quantities of generated waste as well as the need for innovative waste management solutions, Dubai Municipality lends its full support to the Middle East Waste Summit 2009 (MEWS) to be held at the Dubai Airport Expo Centre from 26–28 May.

Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Minister of Finance and Industry and Chairman of Dubai Municipality, the Summit mirrors Dubai’s commitment to addressing one of the region’s most pressing concerns.

Dubai Municipality has initiated the Summit as a major platform for environmental professionals from all over the world to engage in a variety of discussions focusing on caring for the environment through the implementation of sustainable waste management and recycling initiatives. Likewise, the event sets the stage for environmental experts to exchange experiences and know-how to positively impact the environment and the quality of life in the Middle East.

Eng. Hussein Nasser Lootah, Director General, Dubai Municipality said, “We are very pleased with the response from both pre-registered visitors and participants for our event, which reflects the successful bilateral relationship between the UAE and the Middle Eastern countries. Our plans and programmes for the development and improvement of the environment are sustained through our strong collaborations with regional and international nations.”

The GCC region ranks among the top ten biggest waste producers in the world. As such, Dubai Municipality is not only responding to the current demand for efficient waste management but safeguarding economic growth and social development.

Eng. Hassan Mohammed Makki, Director of Waste Management Department, Dubai Municipality commented, “Dubai Municipality has recently signed a contract with an international consultant to develop a national waste minimization strategy for the emirate of Dubai. We expect that the strategies for waste minimization along with an action plan will be submitted by the consultant before the end of 2009 for our review.”

Dubai Municipality currently houses a dedicated environmental awareness section which targets schools, colleges, private sector and government departments. It will soon implement a community patrolling program to help curb littering and illegal dumping in Dubai.

During the Summit, Dubai Municipality will reveal new waste systems and upcoming environmentally friendly technologies that are being pursued by the city such as automated vacuum waste collection systems, underground storage facilities, and underground static compactors for commercial districts.