Educating people about sustainability in the Middle East – while having fun.
The eco-curious public thronged Masdar’s open organic market and street fair last week. As at last April’s first event, people experienced renewable energy in the flesh, riding in neat little driverless pod cars that shuttled between the parking lot and the fair grounds. Once at the market, organic shwarma and snacks tempted appetites. Displays of colorful produce and shelves of organic cosmetics appealed to the health and beauty-conscious.
The Little Fair Trade Shop opened again, selling beautiful craft items made from recycled materials. Kids were treated to “Mad Scientist” and recycling workshops, magic shows and more. Education in sustainability lightly disguised as fun.
“The overriding message of The Market@Masdar City is sustainability,” said Ahmed Baghoum, the director of the Masdar City free zone. We aim to make Abu Dhabi the pre-eminent source of renewable energy knowledge, development and implementation, and the world’s benchmark for sustainable development.”
Judging from the estimated 10,000 people who turned out to see what it’s all about, the Masdar Organic Street Market is a success. Plans are to open it every 6 weeks on Fridays, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Masdar City, the big Middle Eastern experiment in sustainable life. Read more about it on Green Prophet:
Photo of Masdar market by Caline Malek via The National
Author: Miriam Kresh
Miriam Kresh is an American ex-pat living in Israel. Her love of Middle Eastern food evolved from close friendships with enthusiastic Moroccan, Tunisian and Turkish home cooks. She owns too many cookbooks and is always planning the next meal. Miriam can be reached at miriam (at) greenprophet (dot) com.
