Initiative aimed at increasing recycling rates of plastic bottles in Dubai

14 March 2021 - Mai Dubai announced that it has partnered with DGrade, manufacturer of eco-friendly clothing, to support its ‘Simply Bottles’ recycling initiative for schools. The initiative has been designed to educate, engage and empower children to contribute to sustainability by increasing recovery and recycling rates of plastic bottles in the UAE.

The campaign, which runs until June 2021, will see Mai Dubai engage teachers, students and parents at Dubai schools to raise awareness on the importance of recycling plastic water bottles, so that they can be turned into uniforms, PE kits and accessories. The production of clothing items from recycled plastic bottles diverts plastic from landfill and provides a sustainable alternative to conventional clothing production. Mai Dubai and DGrade will jointly organize activities to create awareness for sustainability, including a competition to help incentivize schools to increase collection rates of plastic bottles for recycling.

Alexander van ‘t Riet, CEO of Mai Dubai, said: “We are aware of the importance Dubai government attaches to environmental sustainability in line with the UAE Vision 2021. Raising awareness among the youth is essential to bring about a fundamental change in this regard. Therefore, we are extremely pleased to partner with DGrade to support their ‘Simply Bottles’ initiative which strives to drive the recovery and recycling rates of plastic bottles in the UAE. The initiative aligns with Mai Dubai’s mission to be responsible to society and the environment and fits perfectly with the CSR objective to help close the recycling loop by reducing waste.”

DGrade’s Founder, Kris Barber added “Over the past year and a half we have partnered with Mai Dubai on a number of projects. Their support for the Simply Bottles school recycling initiative is another important way they are demonstrating their commitment to sustainability. Sustainability impacts all of us, but none more so than future generations, Mai Dubai understands that which is why they are so keen to engage schools and work with us on this program.”

Mai Dubai, the bottled water company fully owned by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), has a comprehensive strategy of building partnerships and producing high-quality products. Combining its mission with its commitment to giving back to the society through initiatives like this have helped the brand become number 2 and a household name across the UAE within a short span of time.