UAE Launches 'Valuing Our Roots' Campaign to Tackle Food Waste and Promote Sustainability

The UAE's National Food Loss and Waste Initiative, ne’ma, has launched the nationwide “Valuing Our Roots” campaign to raise awareness about reducing food loss and waste.

This initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to transforming its approach to food sustainability in line with its Food Security Strategy 2051.

The campaign, launched in collaboration with ADQ and Tadweer Group, celebrates Emirati traditions of environmental stewardship while encouraging resource conservation. Speaking at the event, Mariam Almheiri, Head of the Office of International Affairs and Chairwoman of the ne’ma Steering Committee, highlighted the importance of fostering a national movement towards food preservation, rooted in the UAE's heritage.

“This campaign is a strategic step towards societal transformation, emphasizing the need to balance present needs with the preservation of future resources,”

Almheiri said.

Khuloud Hasan Al Nuwais, Chief Sustainability Officer of Emirates Foundation, emphasized the role of intergenerational dialogue in shaping a culture of mindfulness around food. Tadweer Group CEO Ali Al Dhaheri reinforced the organization’s commitment to reducing food waste through expertise in waste management and sustainability.

The campaign launch brought together key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Emirates Food Bank, and Dubai Municipality. An exhibition showcased innovative solutions addressing food waste, sustainable consumption, and preservation practices.

The “Valuing Our Roots” campaign aims to reduce food loss and waste by 50% by 2030 while advancing initiatives that support a circular economy, ensuring long-term food security for the UAE.

News Source: Emirates News Agency