Dubai is one of the world’s favourite consumer hubs. But with a slew of all-you-can-eat brunches and gargantuan malls, the opportunity for waste is huge – about 7,800 tonnes per day to be precise. From glass bottles to last season’s wardrobe, there are plenty of things that can be recycled (or even upcycled) to be kinder to the environment. And if you want to take eco-living to the next level, there are even ways to shop, eat and live greener too….
Ahead of Earth Day ( a day in which we should all think more carefully about our environment) we reveal how to be eco-friendly in the UAE:
Recycling Waste
It’s never been easier to recycle in Dubai. Last year 40,000 recycling bins were distributed around residential areas, including the likes of Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah 1 and 2.
Those living in villa communities who don’t have recycle bins can sign up to Green Truck. For just Dhs100 per month, you’ll get a weekly collection service, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re doing your bit for the environment.
Although the majority of recycling initiatives are targeted at villas, apartment dwellers needn’t throw everything down the chute either. There are many recycling points around the city that you can drop off paper, plastic, bottles, cans and electronics. For a full list, visit here.
Upcycling Furniture
These days nothing is more de rigueur than furniture with a story. Antique, reclaimed and handmade have far overtaken the pull of mass produced items. If you’d like to have a go at upcycling yourself, how about fashioning a coffee table or mirror out of an old pallet? For a huge range of ideas and DIY projects visit 99 Pallets.
For an easier way to add eco-friendly character to your home, visit Antika Dubai. They specialise in vintage and reclaimed Indian furniture – most of which has that ‘shabby chic’ look that’s very on-trend.
Swapping Clothes
Unwanted items that are well past their best can go into a clothes-recycling bin. However, well-kept or designer pieces can be passed on to someone who will get as much joy from them as you once did – one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, after all! What’s more, you can swap your old wardrobe for a whole new one, giving you extra green points. Try My Ex Wardrobe or Shift Fashion.
Farmers’ Markets
Not only are farmers’ markets generally cheaper, the produce usually comes from a local source, meaning that you’re supporting the community. Best of all, less travel time often means less preservatives and pesticides, making eating clean easier than ever. Click on the links below for more information.
Tuesdays: Ripe pop-up at NYLA House
Fridays: Ripe Market, Farmers’ Market On The Terrace, Blue Planet, Green People
Saturdays: Ripe Night Market, The Souk Madinat Farmers’ Market, The Market At The Beach, Dubai Garden Centre
Organic Living
If you take organic living and sustainability seriously, it might be time to re-think the products in your cupboard. Organic foods and café have a huge range of stock for the environmentally conscious. Whether you want to order healthy food, find some “earth friendly” drain unblocker, or even invest in organic beauty products, this is a great way to weed chemicals out of your home. As well as three Dubai-based shops, there’s a free home delivery service on orders above Dhs250. organicfoodsandcafe.com
