By: Irene Garcia, Director of Sustainability, GMG

Earth Day 2024 marks a significant moment for global environmental action, reminding us of our shared responsibility to protect and preserve our planet. This year’s commemoration is the first since the pivotal COP28 conference that brought the world together to Dubai to set a roadmap for global transformative climate action. 

The UAE has established the ‘Green Agenda 2030’, a long-term plan to achieve sustainable development goals and make the economy more environmentally friendly. It has strategic objectives and includes various programs and initiatives to achieve them, including heightened investment in clean energy and vigorous climate action. 

Aligned with UAE’s sustainability vision and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), GMG actively champions sustainability through its “Make a Difference” sustainability strategy.  Launched in 2022, the strategy is built around practical ESG principles reflecting the company’s operational philosophy and supporting its ongoing efforts to positively and responsibly impact the business, society and the environment. Make a Difference is part of GMG’s commitment to supporting nationwide sustainable development and catering to the well-being of communities across the UAE. 

The theme for Earth Day 2024, ‘Planet vs. Plastics’, calls for widespread awareness of the health risks associated with plastics and advocates for rapidly phasing out all single-use plastics. GMG’s Everyday Goods stores have demonstrated their commitment to reducing plastic pollution and its detrimental effects on ecosystems by terminating the use of single-use plastics. In our warehouse, 35,000 square meters of plastic tape have been replaced by eco-friendly paper alternatives. Moreover, installing water filters in GMG offices has also reduced plastic waste, saving a total of 415,226 500ml plastic bottles from the landfill.

Furthermore, GMG has extended its environmental efforts beyond its operations by sponsoring a Dubai Can fountain at the Al Qudra cycle track. This initiative has proven successful, with the sponsored fountain eliminating up to 294,236 500ml plastic bottles. 

Additionally, last year, GMG undertook a strategic Ghaf trees-planting initiative at its Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) facility, complemented by installing a cutting-edge wastewater treatment system. With a capacity of 16,000 gallons, this system effectively treats 12,000 gallons of wastewater, showcasing GMG’s dedication to water resource management. By intelligently utilizing treated wastewater for irrigation, GMG reduces water waste and contributes significantly to environmental greening, exemplifying a sustainable loop in water usage.

Another notable example is the company’s proactive step to digitize its pharmacies, eliminating paper receipts. By going paperless, GMG’s pharmacies aim to reduce their environmental impact while conserving resources. 

As we celebrate Earth Day 2024, let us renew our commitment to environmental stewardship and work together to protect our planet’s precious resources. The recent weather events in our region remind us of our collective obligation to safeguard and maintain the well-being of our planet. GMG remains dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and inspiring positive change, ensuring a healthier and greener world for all.