Guest Blog: ISWA at EcoWASTE 2023

The World Future Energy Summit (WFES) is a premier event for professionals in the waste management industry. This year the summit took place from the 16th – 18th of January 2023 in Abu Dhabi, and featured the EcoWASTE Forum as one of its key attractions. I had the pleasure of travelling to the UAE for the first time and was greeted with wonderful hospitality from both ISWA’s members and hosts of the event. 

ISWA was the knowledge partner for the EcoWASTE Forum this year, where experts shared their invaluable insights into the latest developments in the future of waste management in a circular economy. ISWA’s platinum members Roland Berger and Tadweer along with ISWA’s National Member in Oman, be’ah were also present during the forum. In one of the sessions, Roland Berger’s Senior Partner Hani Tohme spoke on a key topic highlighting the role of governance in circularity strategies and which core polices are needed to be put in place to enhance these.  

During the three day event, there were also other concurrent sessions covering various topics including smart cities, climate change and energy that happened around the exhibition. 

This well planned event provided a great platform for visitors and ISWA members alike to network and meet potential partners in the region. I had also had the opportunity to meet some of ISWA’s members including those from the Middle East as well as from Asia and Europe!  

On the last day, I managed to meet with the CEO of Tadweer, Eng Ali. We discussed Tadweer’s role in ISWA as well as our roles at the upcoming COP28 in Dubai. He was very enthusiastic and positive with ISWA’s work and will be providing us with great support for our efforts in the waste industry.  

It may seem that it was all just work and no play. However, I did have some time to explore the beautiful city of Abu Dhabi. Fatima from Tadweer was an amazing host, she ensured that I was taken cared off during my stay. I tried many local sweets and ate an abundance of great Arabic food. I managed to visit a nice little Sauk and also had the chance to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque during sunset on the last day. It truly was a mesmerising.  

Overall it was a great experience being at the exhibition, meeting with members and partners from around the world is always a plus for me.