The United Arab Emirates University participates in two research projects in the Masdar initiative "Youth 4 Sustainability", from January 16-18, 2023, during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023. The university presents students’ research efforts related to environmental sustainability, which is one of the university's objectives to equip the students with future knowledge and skills to contribute to the development and growth of the nation.

Prof. Ahmed Ali Murad - Associate Provost for Research said that the participation of UAEU students in Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week is highly significant given that this event is of great importance as experts and specialists gather to present best practices that contribute to enhancing environmental sustainability. This week is a unique opportunity for our students to learn about the innovation best practices and to gain new experiences and knowledge from experts who present the results of their research projects. The university works to enhance the participation of students in major international events in order to get acquainted with the real labor market in the scientific field.

Prof. Ahmed Murad added that the university, through the research and innovation strategy 2023-2026, has identified environmental sustainability as one of the research priorities, due to its connection to the national strategic priorities and as a result of the existence and availability of capabilities that help achieve outcomes that contribute to finding innovative solutions to societal and global challenges. The university launched many research programs aimed at supporting students, including the Sustainable Development Goals Research Program. During the first cycle, students conducted 56 research projects addressing the UN SDGs, and our students start this year with 104 research projects.

He explained that our students present two research projects during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023. The student Noura Al Mazrouei from the College of Engineering and under the supervision of Dr. Walid Ahmed and Prof. Al Marzouqi, presents the results of the research that aims to reduce industry -generated organic waste and convert it into biomaterials. The results contribute to the creation of a composite made of waste and addition of a bio-welding material from industrial waste to contribute to improving mechanical properties of building materials.

Doctoral students Nouran Musa, Sabira Harris, and Dr. Emmanuel Galliwango from the College of Engineering, under the supervision of Prof. Ali Al Marzouqi and Prof. Bassem Jadayel, and in collaboration with the industrial partner palmade, present their research project, which aims to produce biodegradable cutleries made from date palm waste.