Dubai Can Initiative Cuts Single-Use Plastic Water Bottle Usage By Nearly 18 Million In Two Years

In a significant stride towards environmental sustainability, Dubai has witnessed a remarkable reduction in the use of single-use plastic water bottles, thanks to the "Dubai Can" initiative. Launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, on 15th February 2022, this citywide sustainability movement has successfully curtailed the usage of nearly 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles within just two years of its inception.

With the backing of various partners and sponsors, "Dubai Can" has strategically placed 50 public water stations across the city, including parks and popular tourist destinations. These stations have collectively dispensed close to nine million litres of water, showcasing the initiative's significant impact on promoting sustainable practices among residents and visitors alike.

The initiative not only aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to position Dubai as a leading sustainable destination but also supports the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan. Furthermore, it contributes towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals and UAE NetZero 2050 targets.

As part of its future plans, especially with the UAE’s "Year of Sustainability" extending into 2024, "Dubai Can" aims to install an additional 30 water fountains by year-end. This expansion is anticipated to further encourage the adoption of refillable water bottles and the installation of water filters in homes, offices, and schools.

Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector at Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, expressed pride in the initiative's success. He highlighted that by reducing plastic waste, "Dubai Can" is not only protecting oceans and wildlife but also promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing carbon footprints. The initiative's success is attributed to the collective effort of city stakeholders, partners, and the public's overwhelming response.

The initiative has also inspired private companies in Dubai to install water fountains in their offices, further reducing single-use plastics in workplaces. This movement towards sustainability has encouraged residents and visitors to adopt more conscientious consumption habits.

All water stations across Dubai adhere to stringent hygiene standards, complying with municipal, healthcare, and federal regulations. The stations provide clean, safe drinking water tested in accordance with standards set by Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), Gulf Cooperation Council, and World Health Organisation. By maintaining the drinking water at a cool 10°C, these stations offer a refreshing alternative to single-use plastic bottles.

Statistics reveal that a resident in the UAE uses an average of 450 plastic water bottles annually. With "Dubai Can," there is a concerted effort to reduce this number significantly and prevent millions of plastic bottles from polluting landfills and oceans.

In December 2023, a second project under "Dubai Can," named Dubai Reef, was launched. As one of the world’s largest marine reef developments, Dubai Reef aims to increase fish stocks, support sustainable fishing practices, contribute to food security, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance marine biodiversity.

This comprehensive approach towards sustainability demonstrates Dubai's commitment to environmental conservation and its role as a pioneer in fostering sustainable practices globally.

With inputs from WAM