Abu Dhabi Wants Residents to Help Kick Plastic to the Curb
Abu Dhabi is putting the power in people’s hands — literally. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has launched a quick online survey asking residents how they feel about the emirate’s single-use plastic rules. And the timing is no accident: the UAE is gearing up for a federal ban starting January 1, 2026, which will finally outlaw importing plastic cutlery, cups, boxes, and styrofoam.
Say goodbye to flimsy forks and foam trays — your takeout just got greener.
From Bags to Bottles: What’s Changed Already
This isn’t Abu Dhabi’s first battle against plastic. Since the 2022 plastic bag ban, the city has seen a 95% drop in their use. That’s a game-changer for landfills and coastlines alike.
On top of that, the emirate’s reverse vending machine initiative has already smashed its targets. More than 170 machines are scattered across Abu Dhabi, and together they’ve collected over 130 million bottles — far above the original 90-million goal. Clearly, residents are ready to recycle when given the tools.
Why the Public’s Voice Matters
Mohammad Ba Sahel, EAD’s head of evaluation of environmental policies, explained why this survey is different:
“We want to hear from the community – everyone who lives in Abu Dhabi. Their voices will directly influence the future of this policy, the incentives we introduce, and the campaigns we launch.”
The short survey (under three minutes!) asks about recycling habits, eco-friendly alternatives, and perceptions of single-use plastics on health and the environment. Available in Arabic and English, it runs until October 12, 2025.
Beyond Abu Dhabi: Why Plastic is a Global Headache
Here’s the big picture: the UN says humans have made 9.2 billion tonnes of plastic since the 1950s — with seven billion tonnes now considered waste. If current trends continue, the OECD warns annual plastic waste could balloon to one billion tonnes by 2060.
Abu Dhabi’s public-powered approach could be a model for other cities — showing how environmental policy works best when co-created with the very people it affects.
How to Get Involved
If you’re living in Abu Dhabi, this is your chance to shape the future. The EAD is encouraging everyone — from students to business owners — to take the survey. It’s short, simple, and could make your future shopping trips and takeaway orders more sustainable.
Because let’s be honest: who wouldn’t want to say, “Yeah, I helped design Abu Dhabi’s plastic-free future”?
