Dubai Can's Sustainable Water Stations Make A Splash

Dubai Can, the citywide sustainability initiative, has significantly reduced plastic waste. Over the past two years since its launch, the program has successfully curbed the use of nearly 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles. How did they achieve this? By strategically installing 50 public water stations across Dubai.

These water stations, conveniently located in parks and popular tourist spots, have dispensed an impressive nine million litres of water. The initiative, spearheaded by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, aims to tackle the environmental impact of plastic waste.

Dubai Can's mission aligns with the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Their goal is to transform Dubai into a leading, sustainable destination. By reducing reliance on single-use plastics, they encourage a positive mindset shift among residents and visitors regarding sustainability.

The initiative plays a vital role in supporting the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan. It contributes to the UAE's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the ambitious UAE NetZero 2050 targets.

As the UAE continues its "Year of Sustainability" into 2024, Dubai Can has exciting plans. They intend to expand their impact by adding 30 more water fountains throughout the city. These fountains will motivate residents and visitors to adopt simple lifestyle changes, such as using refillable water bottles and installing water filters in their homes, offices, and schools.

Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, expressed his enthusiasm for the Dubai Can movement. He highlighted the remarkable success achieved by the initiative since its launch two years ago. Residents and visitors alike have wholeheartedly embraced Dubai Can, aligning with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to position Dubai as a leading sustainable destination.

The city has witnessed consistent engagement with Dubai Can, and its positive impact over the past two years is evident. By reducing plastic waste, the initiative protects our oceans, wildlife, and natural landscapes and promotes a healthier lifestyle. Reusable options, such as public water stations, lower our carbon footprint.

Yousuf Lootah emphasized that Dubai can continue encouraging greener practices and lifestyle choices aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33 goals. This ambitious agenda aims to consolidate Dubai's position among the top three global cities for business and leisure in the next decade.

He further added, "As we strive to achieve Dubai's sustainability goals, we look forward to the continued success of Dubai Can, particularly in the UAE's 'Year of Sustainability', which has been extended into 2024 and invites everyone to join in the collective effort to adopt sustainable practices. Dubai Can has driven the behavioural changes needed to tackle environmental challenges. The success of this initiative could not have been possible without the support of our valued city stakeholders and partners and the overwhelming response from the public."

Dubai's commitment to sustainability has sparked positive change across the city. Private companies have taken inspiration from the Dubai Can movement, installing water fountains in their offices to reduce single-use plastics. But it doesn't stop there—the movement has also influenced residents and visitors to adopt more sustainable behaviours.

Promoting a 'Refill Culture'

Dubai's water stations adhere to the highest hygiene standards, meticulously following municipal, federal, and healthcare regulations. These stations give clean and safe drinking water, rigorously tested to meet the standards set by the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (Dewa), the Gulf Cooperation Council, and the World Health Organization. By driving a 'refill culture', these stations keep the drinking water cool at 10 °C, offering a refreshing and eco-friendly alternative.

Did you know a UAE resident uses around 450 plastic water bottles annually? That adds up to a staggering 4 billion plastic bottles across the country. The Dubai Can initiative aims to change this by encouraging residents and visitors to reduce waste and prevent millions of plastic bottles from ending up in landfills and our oceans.

Dubai Reef: A Marine Marvel

In addition to Dubai Can, another exciting project has surfaced—the Dubai Reef. Launched in December 2023, it's one of the world's largest marine reef developments. The Dubai Reef not only increases fish stocks and supports sustainable fishing but also plays a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and enhancing marine biodiversity. It's a testament to Dubai's unwavering commitment to a greener, more resilient future.

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