Question 1

What is the ultimate goal for Dubai Can?

Accepted Answer

The goal of Dubai Can is to reduce our reliance on single-use plastic. The reason behind that goal? We need to act now to help our planet. Across the globe we have created more plastic waste in 10 years than during the previous century combined – and 40% of all plastic waste in the UAE is single-use (Environment Agency).

Question 2

How long do single-use plastics take to decompose?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of plastic is hugely variable. Plastic bags and disposable coffee cups can last 20-30 years but some products can take far longer to decompose. Plastic straws may take around 200 years to decompose, and water bottles, coffee pods and toothbrushes could take 450-500 years (wwf.org.au).

Question 3

Will it really make an impact if I start using re-useable bottles?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can absolutely make a difference! But we all need to make a change together. We can create a cultural shift in Dubai – of refilling water, recycling and forming sustainable habits – ensuring a cleaner and healthier city for generations to come. Our refill stations will play a huge role in that, providing chilled, filtered water at convenient points around the city.

Question 4

Where can I find water refill stations in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

You can already find drinking water fountains in some parts of the city, including Kite Beach, Dubai World Trade Centre, Zabeel Park and Madinat Jumeirah. Dubai Can will increase access to clean water by launching up to 50 new refill stations across the emirate. Residents and tourists will have access to crisp, clean, refreshing water in key areas around Dubai.

Question 5

What kind of water do the Dubai Can refill stations provide?

Accepted Answer

The water you will get from a Dubai Can refill station is very similar to what you would get from a typical bottle of local, branded water – which is also similar to filtered tap water. The process of desalination removes unhealthy impurities from water at its source, with another layer of filtration at the refill station.

Question 6

Where does the tap water come from in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The vast majority of tap water and drinking water in Dubai is desalinated seawater from the Arabian Gulf. The rest of our water supply comes largely from underground sources or groundwater.

Question 7

Can I drink the tap (faucet) water in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Tap water in the UAE is safe to drink, according to the Conformity Affairs Department at the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology. The water goes through the process of desalination (removing any impurities) before it reaches your taps. Installing your own additional filter at home ensures the water is not affected by aging pipes or tanks.

Question 8

Will there be any Dubai Can events? How can I get involved?

Accepted Answer

Dubai Can is likely to host special events and activations once more refill stations are installed across the city. The best way to get involved is to register your business and install water filters. Contact us to find out more – and don't forget to refill!

Question 9

How can we (the public) make a difference?

Accepted Answer

Anyone in Dubai can adapt their lifestyle and choose more sustainable solutions when it comes to water consumption. Start by using refillable water containers and explore the water filter options from our preferred suppliers (above). When it comes to single-use plastic, consider the following options: refuse, reduce, re-use, recycle.

Question 10

How can we save sea animals from plastic?

Accepted Answer

Plastic is a huge threat to marine wildlife because of microplastics. The tiny pieces appear as a result of plastic degradation and are often toxic, impacting reproduction and causing diseases. Animals that ingest microplastics may suffer for months or years before they die (worldanimalprotection.org.au).

Question 11

How many animals die because of plastic?

Accepted Answer

It is estimated that 100,000 marine creatures die as a result of plastic entanglement every year. The numbers could be higher since many incidents are not observed. In addition, approximately one million sea birds also die as a result of plastic, which includes ingestion (oceancrusaders.org).

Question 12

How can my business get involved?

Accepted Answer

Your business can take part in Dubai Can and help pioneer a culture of sustainability. Contact us if you would like to know more about sponsoring a Dubai Can refill station.

Question 13

Why should we we reduce, re-use and recycle plastic?

Accepted Answer

Cutting down on the use of plastic will reduce its environmental impact. Some types of plastic, including polyethylene terephthalate, is used for bottles and is often recycled to create things like polyester fabric or automotive parts. However, a staggering 91% of all plastics are not recycled at all. That means they end up in landfills, or within the environment – including the ocean (nrdc.org).

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