UAE is all set to welcome Ramadan this year. The whole city is buzzing with activities related to Ramadan like shopping, Iftar, Majilis etc. But this year UAE government, in line with its motto of sustainable living, has started a vigorous campaign towards no wastage of food during Ramadan.

Residents of UAE have been urged not to waste food as during Ramadan food wastage doubles in UAE that ultimately make its way into municipal landfills where left over food  decomposes and releases methane gas that contributes to global warming.

 At  a special food-waste awareness event Minister of Environment and Climate Change suggested that a community effort is needed to show restraint when cooking up huge food presentations for guests or customers.

Food waste during Ramadan contributes to an estimated $4billion in yearly food waste in the UAE as compared to the $2.6 trillion in annual food waste globally. Residents have been urged to be mindful while buying food stuff.

In addition, 40% of the waste generated in UAE comes from food waste and that is huge. It does not only harm the environment but it also affects the economy of the country as huge amount of money is lost dumping the waste food.

To combat the problem UAE has come up with a viable solution. UAE Food Bank has been installed where in leftover food processed, cooked or fresh food from grocery stores, restaurants and manufacturers will be accepted and will be passed  along to those who are in need. Fridges are being placed across the country where the donated food will be collected free, some of the food once bound for the landfill will be diverted, hence it will reduce the wastage of food.

This initiative by UAE government is not only a turning point towards reducing the greenhouse gas that is released due to the decomposition of food in the landfill, but it will also serve the needy especially during Ramadan. It truly justifies the vison of UAE for the year 2017 that is the Year of Giving.