Abstract
This study investigates the integration of Circular Economy (CE) principles within higher education institutions (HEIs) in UAE as a method to address waste challenges in UAE. Despite the announcement of UAE 2021-2031 Circular Economy Policy, and the nationwide continues promotion of sustainability initiatives, HEI’s lack the availability of tailored policies and procedures as well as guiding framework to address their waste challenges and adapt CE within their institutions. To assess this problem, a survey has been distributed to 45 CAA accredited public and private universities in UAE. A qualitative approach has been used to analyze the survey responses. The survey has revealed that there is a low level of awareness of CE principles among the HEI’s employees. HEI’s face the challenge of insufficient policy enforcement, as well as inadequate infrastructure and financial constrains. Although many of the participants showed that their institutional leadership provides positive support towards sustainability initiatives. After analyzing all of these, a CE Framework has been proposed for HEI’s, that would enable the HEI’s to be on the path towards circularity. The framework is a considered a starting point, and could be enhanced further with further research.
Publication Date
1-10-2025
Document Type
Master's Project
Student Type
Graduate
Degree Name
Engineering Management (ME)
Advisor
Dua Weraikat
Recommended Citation
Ali, Muna, "Enhancing Waste Management and Circular Economy Practices in Higher Education Institutions in UAE: A Study on Current Policies and Strategic Framework" (2025). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/12232
Campus
RIT Dubai
