Tadweer, the Centre of Waste Management in Abu Dhabi, is looking to set GCC-wide standards for construction and demolition (C&D) waste.

In a statement released ahead of the 2016 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, Tadweer said it is looking to set the standards as part of a waste management master plan in the UAE capital, as Gulf municipalities grapple with increasing waste.

Construction and demolition debris is a significant contributor to waste generated in the GCC. As construction activity grows, governments in the region are faced with the challenge of managing waste – an issue exacerbated by limited C&D regulations.

Recycling C&D waste can conserve raw material, energy and water, while also cutting greenhouse emissions. In addition, recycled material is much cheaper and can be used in infrastructure projects.

“Construction projects are rapidly increasing in the region with Expo 2020 preparations in Dubai, and the World Cup 2022 to be hosted in Qatar. With these developments, municipalities across the GCC are recognising the need for robust strategies to minimise the negative impact of large amounts of C&D waste,” said Eisa Saif Al Qubaisi, general manager of Tadweer.

The Waste Management Master Plan, being developed by Tadweer for Abu Dhabi, includes studies about best practices, laws and policies related to waste management and cost-efficient processing. The plan will also propose methods to reduce commercial and industrial waste.

“As part of the master plan, despite the growth in C&D waste that increasing construction projects are likely to cause, we are aiming to reduce C&D waste levels,” said Dr. Salem Al Kaabi, deputy general manager of Tadweer.

“We hope to demonstrate how efficient C&D waste recycling can have a positive impact on the region’s environment, society, and economy.”

Tadweer plans to participate in EcoWaste, which will run January 18-21. The exhibition is part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, co-located with the World Future Energy Summit at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.