Saving the Planet, One Step at a Time

World Environment Day (WED) occurs every year on 5 June, with this year’s theme being land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience under the slogan ‘Our Land, Our Future’. The day is celebrated to create awareness and encourage action towards the protection and restoration of the environment and is supported by many non-governmental organisations, businesses, and government entities. WED represents the primary United Nations outreach day supporting the environment.

At Middlesex University Dubai, we have many ongoing sustainable initiatives, including the dedicated MDX Institute of Sustainable Development (ISD), that fosters the advancement of sustainability in the university and wider community. As World Environment Day approaches, it’s the perfect time for students to engage in sustainable practices that contribute towards a healthier planet. Let’s look at some initiatives that can help you get started.

Refillable water bottles

Switching to a refillable water bottle is a simple yet effective way to reduce plastic waste. According to earthday.org, 8.3 billion metric tons (9.1 billion US tons) of plastic has been produced since plastic was introduced in the 1950s and 79% of plastic that has ever been made still sits in landfills or the natural environment (with the exception of the small amount that has been incinerated or recycled). Using a refillable bottle such as the MDX branded bottles, not only helps the environment but can inspire others around campus to stop using single-use plastic. These bottles will last for many years, and you can take advantage of the ‘Dubai Can’ public refill taps available at Dubai Knowledge Park to stay hydrated without contributing to the plastic pollution problem.

When not in use, turn off and unplug equipment

Did you know that keeping devices plugged in even though they are switched off can also consume electricity? It’s known as the phantom effect. So next time when you leave a room, make it a habit to turn off and unplug devices if they’re not being used. Small actions like this can reduce energy consumption and help lower the carbon footprint of the campus.

Tote bags for shopping

Tote bags are a great environmentally friendly alternative instead of using single-use plastic bags such as the ones found in supermarkets, gas stations and retail stores. You can use them to carry your food and other items around campus, plus take a few tote bags when you go grocery shopping. This way you’ll help cut down on plastic waste and support a more sustainable lifestyle. Many countries around the world have implemented bans on single-use plastic bags to reduce environmental impact and a good example is the recent ban on single-use plastic bags in Dubai. Customers used to be able to pay 25 fils to carry goods in single-use plastic bags, but as of 1 June 2024 will now be required to use their own sustainable alternatives. This total ban includes all types of single-use plastic bags, including those made from paper, biodegradable vegetable materials, and other biodegradable options. Initiatives like this will save the planet in the long run by reducing plastic waste.

Embrace circular fashion.

There’s a lot of inspiration within the campus when it comes to sustainable fashion and good consumer practices. If you’re a BA Honours Fashion Student, you will be taught within your classes about the hard realities of fast fashion and its impact on our planet. As part of the MDX BA Hons Fashion programme, students learn about the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12 to cut down waste by preventing, reducing, recycling, and reusing. They also explore how both digital and traditional technologies are important in fashion. This prepares them to make a positive impact on industry and society at large.

Also, during MDX events such as For the Love of the Planet (FTLOTP), we host sessions such as a denim patch workshop where old clothes are given new life. You can action things like this from home regardless of your experience: try upcycling some of your old jeans into simple shorts, weaving clothing strips into jewellery, or simply sewing ripped clothing back together instead of throwing it away. If you don’t have time for any of the above, giving away your used clothes to a clothing drive is a great option too. All of these will contribute to a decrease in landfill waste.

Use public transport to travel to campus.

As the global population continues to rise, so will the usage of vehicles on the road and transportation is one of the main causes of greenhouse gas emissions. There are plenty of public transport options including the bus, tram, metro, and Careem bikes easily accessible near MDX at Dubai Knowledge Park. If you have to travel by car, if possible, you can consider sharing a ride with others, which will save both money and environmental impact. All of these sustainable methods help minimise traffic on the road, maintain better air quality and lessen noise pollution.

If the car is your main mode of transport, consider the ever-more popular option of an electric vehicle, that offers a few environmental benefits compared to traditional gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles. Electric vehicles help save the planet by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and can be powered by renewable energy sources. This shift from fossil fuels to electric power decreases air pollution and reduces climate change impacts.

Green clubs

Green clubs not only raise public awareness but also encourage students to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle. Students can collaborate with other fellow students who are passionate about the environment and sustainability practices to organise activities such as composting initiatives, beach cleanups and awareness drives, share eco-friendly tips in classrooms, and run workshops focused on sustainability. These clubs are a great start to do your part as individuals for the benefit of the planet.

These are some of the steps students can take on a regular basis, as well as on World Environment Day, to help minimise the impact on our planet. Small changes made every day can gradually lead to bigger and greater results. We have only one planet to call home, so let’s do our part and work together for a better, healthier, and more sustainable planet.