In an effort to reduce food waste in the United Arab Emirates, which reached nearly six billion dirhams annually before the sustainability year, WIN Sustainably organized “Zero Waste Night” event to highlight and discuss some solutions. This event was held in collaboration with Dubai Charity Association, Belgian Business Council, and Conrad Hotel – Dubai, in the presence of Her Excellency Leila Rahhall, Goodwill Ambassador, and Hisham Hassan, food safety expert at Dubai Municipality.
The event included the launch of “QA’LIL application with a special culinary surprise presented by Executive Chef Elias Doulamis from Conrad Dubai Hotel, demonstrating how consumers can benefit from surplus food, which is not sold at promotional prices through the “QA’LIL” app by WIN Sustainably, while turning food business’ losses into profit while maintaining the planet’s cleanliness.
The founders of the application confirmed that the goal of QA’LIL is to “highlight the importance of preserving the blessing of food in the United Arab Emirates and the world through sustainable practices and showcasing innovative methods and technology in sustainable development.” Consumers can benefit from unsold surplus food at promotional prices, which benefits both the environment and restaurant owners.
On this occasion, Arnaud de Harenne, Chairman of the Belgian Business Council, commented: “The Zero Waste Night showcased the essence of sustainability and conscious consumerism. A commendable initiative that not only enlightens us about combating food wastage but also underscores the significance of minimizing our carbon footprint.
The QA’LIL app has revolutionized the hospitality landscape in Dubai. By enabling restaurants, supermarkets and hotels to offer their unsold items to our residents, it seamlessly bridges businesses with our vibrant local communities. In reducing food wastage and fostering connections, This app is a win-win for everyone involved” he added
Fahmi AlMughairy, Co-Founder & COO of WIN Sustainably, expressed his happiness with the success of the event, saying: “I am delighted to be here, representing the QA’LIL food application from WIN Sustainablyy, in collaboration with the Belgian Business Council in Dubai. It was truly a transformative experience, bringing together a group of business leaders, executive chefs, entrepreneurs, and ambassadors under one roof to engage in discussions of such importance that cannot be achieved on a daily basis. The fine dining experience this evening was unique because it shed light on the components of food that may escape the minds of our esteemed guests. And the best part is that these foods, with their ideas and ingredients, embody what we believe in on the QA’LIL application; they are a living testament to the fact that good food doesn’t necessarily have to look perfect to be delicious and nutritious.”
WIN Sustainably primarily focuses on raising awareness and transforming sustainable practices into daily behavior, by changing the perception towards ideal food consumption.
Furthermore, speakers at the Zero Waste Night event emphasized the importance of proper food storage to maintain its freshness and physical properties without any changes in taste. This message was integrated into the QA’LIL application to emphasize that even “imperfect” food products can be excellent and useful, ensuring their consumability for future generations to experience.
The event witnessed a distinguished presence of young leaders and influencers in the fields of sustainability, environment, and peace and concluded with an open discussion session and knowledge exchange.
