Emirati Initiative Utilises AC Water to Plant Five Trees Per Household

Emirati expert Dr. Mohammed Al-Shehhi has launched an initiative encouraging the use of air conditioning condensate to irrigate five trees per Emirati household. This approach seeks to repurpose water that would otherwise be wasted, potentially generating millions of gallons suitable for irrigation.

According to the initiative, each AC unit produces between 10 to 15 litres of condensation daily, depending on humidity and unit size, amounting to approximately 300 to 450 litres per month per household. By channelling this water to irrigate native trees such as ghaf, sidr and samar - species resilient to salinity and drought - residents can contribute to urban greening and enhance local food production by cultivating homegrown vegetables. Implementing this initiative involves connecting AC drainage systems to storage tanks, facilitating the collection of condensate for garden irrigation. Dr. Al-Shehhi has applied this system in his own residence and is expanding its use to include greywater from showers and sinks, further reducing water consumption and promoting environmental sustainability.

Beyond its impact on water conservation, the initiative supports broader environmental benefits. Trees play a crucial role in improving air quality, acting as natural filters that absorb pollutants while releasing oxygen. Their presence also contributes to temperature regulation, helping to mitigate the urban heat island effect by providing shade and reducing surface temperatures in densely built areas. Additionally, the introduction of flowering trees such as the sidr supports biodiversity, creating a habitat for pollinators like bees, which play a vital role in local ecosystems and honey production.