According to a statement issued by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, two infrastructure projects worth a total of $20m have just been approved. The first contract, worth $13.4m will focus on replacing the water supply network of several basins in Abu Dhabi.

This project, once completed, will enhance the operational efficiency and meet current and future needs of the population. The second project, worth $6.8m, is concerned with establishing parks and sustainable utilities that meet the needs of communities in Al Ain.

Both projects were approved by a committee chaired by Jassem Bu Ataba Al Zaabi. The committee is said to have reviewed multiple topics and memos relating to the implementation of projects and services, which were prepared by various state departments in Abu Dhabi.

The move is the latest made by Abu Dhabi decision makers that is designed to reduce the consumption of resources, and increase sustainability.

Earlier in the year, the Abu Dhabi Water & Electric Authority, Abu Dhabi General Services Company and General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments signed a memorandum of understanding in a bid to reduce the consumption of ablution water in the emirate’s mosques. The project aims to cut the consumption of water in mosques by 50%. A three-month pilot project ended in December 2016; the project saw the replacement of 259 standard ablution taps with high-efficiency, low-flow and self-closure models.

The drive towards sustainability is in line with the sustainable Estidama specifications set by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council.