“Green dreams”, UAE innovators boost futuristic solutions for food and water safety

Doha: UAE innovators are making waves at the International Horticultural Expo in Doha, showcasing innovative projects aimed at addressing pressing environmental concerns. Under the theme "Green Desert, Better Environment," these environmental champions are demonstrating how futuristic technology can play a pivotal role in combating climate challenges.

Circa Biotech, a pioneering AgriTech company based in the UAE, is revolutionizing food waste management. Dr. Haythem Riahi, the co-founder, reveals their innovative process of utilizing black soldier fly larvae to metabolize food waste into valuable proteins and fats. With a new facility underway in Al Ain, Circa Biotech aims to process 1,000 tonnes of food waste annually, while also producing 1.5 tonnes of organic fertilizer per month.

Smart Acres, another UAE-based venture, introduces an indoor vertical farm equipped with hydroponic technology. Founder Abdulla Al Kaabi emphasizes the farm's ability to produce pesticide-free leafy greens using minimal land and water resources, aligning with the UAE government's initiatives on food security and sustainability.

UAE innovators are spearheading efforts to transform green dreams into reality, leveraging technology and ingenuity to tackle food waste and enhance water security.

Dr. Dinesh Shetty, from Khalifa University, presents an innovative water purification system designed to eliminate toxic pesticides and contaminants swiftly. This innovation holds promise in ensuring access to clean and safe water for both agricultural and domestic purposes.

Dr. Saeed Al Hassan, a professor at Khalifa University and co-founder of Emirati start-up Manhat, unveils plans for floating farms powered by solar energy. By harnessing the Sun's heat and the process of evaporation, Manhat aims to generate fresh water from the ocean without electricity, offering a sustainable solution to water scarcity in coastal areas.

The UAE pavilion, designed by Giulia Frittoli, reflects the country's vision of sustainability. Inspired by the resilient ghaf tree, the pavilion showcases a network of rammed earth walls and thematic gardens, highlighting the power of plants as a source of food, health, and energy.