The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) collected over 11 tonnes of trash from nine sites across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain during its 15th edition of the Clean Up UAE.

Areas included the Al Samha area – the area surrounding the Emirates Heritage Club in Abu Dhabi and Al Nabaagh area in Al Ain. The event was attended by more than 2000 participants from all sectors of society who joined hands to be a part of the biggest environmental campaign in the UAE.

The event began with the hoisting of the Clean-Up UAE flag followed by the opening speech by Emirates Environmental Group, who welcomed all the participants and shared the details of the 10 day long campaign.

“The campaign truly reflects the unity that distinguishes this young and dynamic nation; and also gives testimony to the fact that environmental stewardship or commitment to the environment is a common concept that cuts across all barriers like class, sector, ethnicity, nationality, gender and age. We are delighted that from governments to companies, students to householders, experts to workers, Emirati to expatriate; – everyone has joined hands for this important cause”, said Habiba Al Marashi, Chairperson of EEG.

The cooperation between all the members of society added to the success of this celebration of the UAE. Enthusiasm filled the hearts of all the volunteers involved in cleaning up the Al Samah in Abu Dhabi. Thousands of volunteers were equipped with bio-degradable trash bags, cotton re-usable gloves, caps and t-shirts and picked up trash.

The first session of Clean up UAE began in December 2002, and only included Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman. Over the years, it has increased.