ZOOM stores target an end to single-use plastic in the Emirates
The retailer has partnered with Emirates Nature World Wildlife Fund to promote sustainability by introducing reusable bags.
ZOOM, the convenience store chain operated by the Enoc Group, announced its partnership with Emirates Nature World Wildlife Fund to extend its support for the Rethink Plastic Campaign. The non-profit organisation is raising awareness towards banning single-use plastic bags usage in the United Arab Emirates and the retailer has joined its campaign with new initiatives.
As part of its support, the company has now introduced reusable bags which are environmentally friendly. Priced from AED 3 dirhams per bag, these Jute bags are 100% biodegradable and recyclable and therefore eco-friendly.
“ZOOM is committed towards forging long standing collaborations and CSR partnerships that focus on three primary components to achieve social, environmental and economic wellbeing. We are proud to partner with Emirates Nature–WWF’s Rethink Plastic initiative – in line with UAE’s vision to become a sustainable destination,” said Taleb Al Saleh, Director of Marketing at Enoc.
Additionally, as per the new government policy, ZOOM will also avail a mandatory charge of 25 fils per plastic bag from customers. A percentage of the proceeds will go towards protecting the UAE’s wildlife and environment, in partnership with Emirates Nature–WWF.
“It is more important than ever for corporates to take action in eliminating avoidable plastic waste, and in order to do so, we need to enforce positive behaviour change,” added Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emirates Nature-WWF.
In 2019, 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic were produced in the UAE only. 11 billion plastic bags are consumed yearly which is equivalent to 1,184 plastic bags per person per year in the UAE while the global average is 307 plastic bags per person per year. A recent study also showed that plastic materials were found in 80% of dead hawksbill turtles in Abu Dhabi while plastic bags are responsible for the death of 1 million birds every year.
