Introduction

The project, in partnership with multiple stakeholders, aims to increase sustainability awareness and promote behavioral changes among Abu Dhabi Women’s College (ADW) constituents.

Project Overview

The initiative was designed to build effective partnerships between students, faculty, and industry to improve the recycling process of paper, plastics, and cans while enhancing sustainability practices on campus. The project includes students and faculty from three academic disciplines: Business, Computer Information Systems (CIS), and Applied Media.

Method

Developed a marketing and promotional campaign to increase sustainability awareness through a series of activities, including a Sustainability Awareness Symposium, Campus Sustainability Roadshows, and the introduction of a Sustainability Day.
Engaged students and faculty in practical research activities, including conducting a campus-wide survey on sustainability practices and performing a comprehensive assessment and waste audit of the existing recycling program.
Designed and produced a student-developed ‘SmartBin’ technology—a waste bin with an automated voice guiding users to dispose of waste correctly. The bin is also fitted with sensor technology to monitor recycling levels and facilitate efficient waste collection.
Enhanced the recycling program by installing SmartBins across campus.
Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the PPC Project.

Key Outcomes and Learnings

This project provided students with the opportunity to connect knowledge from different disciplines and develop valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and design thinking.
Initially, stakeholder engagement was minimal, but participation grew significantly over time.
Anecdotal results indicate positive feedback from ADW students and staff regarding the PPC Project and sustainability in general. Discussions about sustainability have noticeably increased, and many stakeholders have expressed their appreciation for the awareness events, reporting a greater understanding of sustainability and recycling opportunities in the UAE.