Ajman Municipality Records High Air Quality and Waste Management Indicators in Q1

The Ajman Department of Municipal Affairs and Planning achieved notable environmental milestones in 2026 as part of its ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and develop its environmental operations framework. The Department recorded strong positive indicators in air quality and waste management, alongside the implementation of strategic initiatives and projects contributing to improved quality of life, in alignment with its strategic objectives of reducing pollution, advancing the transition towards carbon neutrality, protecting biodiversity, conserving natural resources, and strengthening integrated waste management, in keeping with Ajman 2030 directions for environmental sustainability.

Dr. Eng. Khalid Maeen Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Public Health and Environment Sector, affirmed that sustained efforts, intensified work, and integrated operations have contributed to the development of monitoring and inspection systems and the improvement of oil and grease waste management. The Department has also implemented qualitative environmental initiatives targeting environmental protection and the enhancement of compliance among establishments.

Al Hosani noted that the air quality index recorded 97.60% of days with good readings during Q1 2026, reflecting the success of efforts to reduce pollution sources, particularly in urban areas. The properly treated waste indicator reached 25%, signalling improved waste management efficiency and higher levels of compliance with environmental procedures.

Regarding oil and grease waste management, Al Hosani reported a significant increase in volumes during the first three months of the year compared to the same period in 2025. January recorded 232,411 gallons against 101,642 gallons, February recorded 210,872 gallons against 80,761 gallons, and March recorded 85,270 gallons compared to 34,866 gallons in March 2025, representing increases ranging between 129% and 161%. He attributed this to the implementation of a modern electronic system, improved data recording accuracy, greater establishment compliance and expanded coverage, as well as enhanced inspection and reporting mechanisms.

In the context of environmental initiatives, Al Hosani highlighted the ‘Carbon-Zero Schools’ initiative, with 60 schools registered during Q1, comprising 20 government schools and 40 private schools. Awareness workshops were conducted to promote environmental awareness among students, and work is under way to establish a specialised evaluation committee to monitor the application of the initiative’s criteria.

He noted the intensification of environmental monitoring efforts, with 500 inspection operations conducted since the beginning of the year, targeting establishments handling chemicals, oils, and high-impact environmental activities, as well as facilities located in sensitive areas, with the aim of ensuring compliance with environmental requirements and mitigating risks.

With regard to strategic projects, Al Hosani explained that the Department is working to operate a waste sorting line at the waste transfer station with a capacity exceeding 500 tonnes per day, contributing to improved sorting operations, increased recovery of recyclable materials, and a reduction in waste directed to landfill sites. Projects also include sewage sludge treatment, hazardous waste management, and waste-to-energy conversion studies, in support of circular economy directions.

He affirmed that these results reflect continuous improvement in the environmental operations framework through effective policies and qualitative projects, stressing the Department’s commitment to advancing environmental programmes and strengthening partnerships with the public and private sectors to achieve a healthy and sustainable environment for future generations.