Empowering the next generation with water security
Youth worldwide, in facing climate anxiety and demanding action, have become vocal and innovative champions of change. Recognising this, Aldar Academies, a leading provider of private education in the UAE, has put student engagement at the forefront of its water conservation goals and efforts.
The need
Aldar Academies operates seven academies in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Established by real estate developer Aldar, the network is part of Aldar Education’s 29 schools, educating over 33,000 students across the UAE. Aldar has stated its goals to achieve Net Zero status by 2050 and is working to foster a sustainable and innovative operating model across its ventures, including water conservation, CO2 reduction and the elimination of plastic. As part of this broader Aldar network, Aldar Academies also needed to do their part.
“Our motivation for working on water stems from a deep concern for the environment and future generations,” said Michele Bahadar, Science Teacher and Sustainability Lead at Yas American Academy. “Witnessing the impact of water scarcity and environmental degradation has fuelled our students’ and community’s passion for sustainability. We are driven by the belief that every small action we take towards conserving water and promoting sustainable practices can make a meaningful difference in preserving our planet.”
Challenges
- Meeting important water conservation targets while providing students, teachers and staff with pure drinking water
- Reducing the need for single-use plastic bottles within school settings
- Ensuring the ongoing maintenance and efficient operation of a new system across various school environments
- Finding a seamless solution that integrated within school infrastructure without disrupting other activities
The solution
Aldar Academies partnered with A1RWATER to install air-to-water generators/dispensers across their campuses. The schools chose a combination of A1R30 machines, capable of producing 30 litres of pure drinking water per day, and A1R100 machines, which produce 100 litres per day, creating indoor and outdoor hydration stations that only require a simple power source.
Positioned in accessible areas, students, teachers and staff can easily refill cups or reusable water bottles between classes and activities, eliminating the need for single-use plastic. Water is constantly replenished as it is consumed, reducing the schools’ reliance on traditional water sources and helping them meet their broader sustainability goals.
“We have air-to-water systems that are actively being used by staff and students,” said Michele Bahadar, Science Teacher and Sustainability Lead at Yas American Academy. “We will also be doing an info session with students regarding the benefits of this innovative technology in addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainability.”
Impact
Since the first A1RWATER units were installed in 2022, Aldar Academies campuses have collectively generated over 435,000 litres of premium drinking water, eliminating 871,000+ single-use plastic water bottles and 79+ tons of CO2 in the process.
Not only do these efforts contribute to Aldar’s broader ESG goals, the schools are also educating a new generation of leaders, instilling in them the values of conservation and the importance of a collective effort.
435,000+ litres
Total water generated to date
871,000+
500 ml plastic bottles eliminated
79+ tonnes
Total CO2 saved
Begin your own water success story today. Contact our team to discuss your water needs and develop a custom air-to-water solution.