By Abdullahi Lukman
The Emirates Group has showcased its commitment to reducing single-use plastics and promoting responsible consumption, which aligns with the UN’s campaign to end plastic pollution.
It staged the showcase during its annual sustainability event, ‘Tomorrow Takes Flight,’ held on held on July 4, 2025, at the Emirates Group Headquarters in Dubai.
The event highlighted collaborative sustainability efforts by Emirates and dnata, focusing on a circular approach involving sourcing, reusing, repurposing, and reducing plastic use.
Dnata, which provides sustainable aviation services, demonstrated initiatives such as plant-based packaging, food waste reduction, and pollution prevention measures.
Key participants included representatives from Emirates Engineering, Flight Operations, SkyCargo, dnata Technical Services, and industry partners like the University of Cambridge, UAE GCAA, Airbus, and Boeing.
Emirates presented its ‘Aircrafted by Emirates’ program, which transforms retired materials into functional items, promotes recycled materials in service, and supports conservation through cleanup projects and biodigester technology.
Dnata emphasized actions like recycling programs in cargo, reducing food waste at Marhaba, and deploying river interceptors to prevent ocean pollution.
CEO Steve Allen stressed ongoing investments in renewable energy, electric ground equipment, and circular resource management.
Partners such as Ecyclex, Reloop, and Falcon Aircraft Recycling demonstrated waste recycling innovations, including e-waste and aircraft parts recycling.
Dubai Airport introduced creative waste management solutions aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
The interactive event engaged employees with quizzes and activities, including building a ‘Bottle Wall’ that was upcycled into plant pots for participants to take home.
Emirates Deputy President and COO Adel Al Redha emphasized the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility as part of its strategy to support the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 goals.
