More than 2 million empty aluminium cans were gathered from across the UAE on Saturday as part of a nation-wide collection drive in a boost to community-based recycling.

 

The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), a non-government organisation, has been spearheading the campaign for 20 years now – this year was the biggest haul and brought together some 300 participating entities from all the seven Emirates.

 

This year's drive collected 27,000 kilograms of aluminium cans, equivalent to about 2 million empty cans.

 

The twice-a-year campaign saw staff from government agencies, hotels, private companies, academic institutions, and families happily dropping off cans they collected at assigned points for weighing, collection and photo ops.

 

EEG gave a certificate to participants based on the number of kilograms they brought for recycling.

 

The campaign aims to bring people from all segments of society together, taking action to segregate and recycle, and allowing them to participate in environmental stewardship. However, that greater community participation is needed to make a difference. (GULF NEWS)