Ajman University Shines at Environmental Public Speaking Competition with Groundbreaking Research

In an impactful display of environmental stewardship, Ajman University (AU) recently participated in the Inter-College Environmental Public Speaking Competition, showcasing research projects that tackled some of today’s most pressing ecological issues. Four teams from AU, representing various colleges, examined critical global topics, offering insights and solutions that highlighted AU's commitment to sustainable development and the UAE’s environmental goals.

A notable project, "Rising Energy Demands: Satiable with Renewable Energy or Oil Indispensable," presented by the College of Pharmacy and Engineering, explored the ongoing global dependency on fossil fuels against the rise of renewable energy. Citing projections from the International Energy Agency, the team discussed the inevitable 21% rise in global energy demand by 2040 and the urgent need for a balanced approach that incorporates both renewable and conventional energy sources to meet global needs. The research aimed to address SDGs #7, #8, and #13, calling for a strategic shift that can accommodate rising demands sustainably.

The College of Architecture’s project, "The Rebalancing Act," analyzed the complex role of multinational corporations (MNCs) in environmental and economic arenas. With only 21% of CEOs currently contributing to the SDGs, the team emphasized the responsibility of MNCs to adopt sustainable practices within their operations to prevent environmental degradation. Their recommendations aligned with SDGs #9, #11, and #12, promoting a more responsible corporate approach to natural resource use.

In another standout project, the College of Medicine addressed the global crisis of microplastics with "The Omnipresent Microplastics: The Unseen Pandemic." The team highlighted alarming statistics on plastic pollution, citing its pervasive presence from ocean depths to human bloodstreams. Their research recommended adopting a circular approach to plastic usage and aligning with SDGs #11, #12, and #14 to combat this hidden pandemic effectively.

Completing AU’s representation, the College of Engineering and IT examined "Multinational Corporations: Compelling Economic Growth or Environmental Degradation?" This project underscored the environmental impact of MNCs and the need for sustainable business practices that support both economic growth and ecosystem preservation, aiming to balance SDG targets with corporate goals.

Ajman University’s participation in this competition reflects its dedication to sustainability and its role in advancing knowledge on critical environmental challenges. Through these projects, AU students demonstrated their potential to influence meaningful change, showcasing how academic research can support the UAE’s vision for a sustainable, resilient future.