ISWK declared ‘Overall Winner’ at Oman Sustainability Fair 2026

2026-02-11 - 15:49

Ten schools from Muscat and Sohar participated in the Oman Sustainability Fair 2026 wherein young minds with comprehensive solutions for a greener planet put forth a plethora of solutions that not just refine manufacturing methods but also mindsets The beautiful lawns of J W Marriot came alive on Tuesday evening with an even more beautiful array of environment-friendly projects, created by spirited teams of young school students who have undertaken a common goal of frugally using the resources of the planet in a sustainable fashion. Students from Indian School Wadi Kabir bagged the Overall Winner award for a set of six projects presented under the name ‘AROHAN’, the other winning schools were Azzan Bin Qais Sohar (Most Innovative Project), Downe House Muscat (Best Practical Implementation), Knowledge Gate International School (Best Presentation), and Azzan Bin Qais (Special award for outstanding effort). ISWK had been the overall winner in 2024, too, for their project titled ‘ECOSavvy’. Hosted by Environment Society of Oman (ESO), the Sustainability Fair 2026, brought together student teams from ten private schools to showcase innovative solutions for a greener future. Held on February 10 at J W Marriot Hotel, the event highlighted student-led projects addressing key environmental challenges and alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ESO took the lead as the primary organiser of the fair, which is now in its fifth edition, reinforcing its commitment to environmental education, youth empowerment, and community involvement in Oman. The exhibition arena was abuzz with enthusiastic descriptions presented by the students who had a host of innovative ideas to do away with hazardous old habits and usher in innovative ways of sustainable living. And they were ably supported by a number of stalls put up by supporters of the event who also displayed ways and means to keep the planet green. Asked about what sustainability meant to them, the students had varied ideas. Mustafa Abu Zeid (TAISM) said, “For me sustainability means being conscious of what we do, how it affects others and the environment,” while Isha Ahmed (KGIS) described sustainability as, ‘a movement wherein everyone needs to act responsibly and conserve natural resources, especially plants and animals around us, which we are using up carelessly.” Maria al Hadhrami (Downe House) added, “Sustainability for me means more than just representing and displaying ideas, rather it is about actions and behaviour. As students, we need to take the lead to secure the future, as we are going to be the future leaders.” Noora al Jamal (Ellesmere Muscat), however, stressed the need for limited use of cars (responsible for harmful emissions), pointing out the increasing use of cars and the growing rate of accidents in Oman. She supported the use of solar umbrellas which can be used outdoors for small errands in a hot climate. In addition to the dynamic lineup of student-driven projects on display, the exhibition showcased small and medium enterprises (SMEs), businesses, and innovators presenting real-world sustainability solutions. These exhibitors were selected to participate for their commitment, expertise and insights in promoting environmental stewardship and as inspiration to future generations and the community at large. Ulrich Emmer, Managing Director of Baur Nimr, globally renowned for developing the largest commercially constructed wetland in the world, commented, “Watching these students move from concepts to feasible, innovative projects is incredibly inspiring – it’s the exact energy Oman needs. Bauer Nimr has been the Fair’s main sponsor since its inception, and seeing the growth over these past five years has been a highlight for us. As a provider of nature-based solutions, we believe this Fair is more than a competition – it’s a launchpad for the next generation of environmental leaders.” Siemens Energy noted that, more than just a school event, the ESO Sustainability Fair 2026 served as a hub for inspiration and knowledge exchange, spotlighting emerging sustainability trends and fostering meaningful discussions. With 25 exhibits and more than 300 attendees, the fair promoted a shared culture of environmental responsibility and action, it added. Marla Valdez, founder of the ESO Sustainability Fair, highlighting the community spirit at the heart of the event, said, “We want to celebrate the innovation and commitment that businesses and SMEs are bringing to sustainability. The participants gathered today are leaders who are making real, measurable contributions to Oman’s sustainability goals.” The event featured exhibits by Three Pillars Environmental and Sustainability Consultancy, Be’ah, Five Elements Environmental Services, EFP (Egg Carton recycling), Nature photographer Nasser al Kindi, Marine Biologist Elayne Looker, Used book sale by the Olsen family, Tiny Stiches, and Verde & Green natural products made in Oman. The sponsors of the event included (Gold Sponsor) Bauer Nimr, (Silver Sponsor) Siemens Energy, and (Bronze Sponsor) Voltamp while ‘in-kind support’ was provided byMarriott Worldwide Business Councils Oman and J W Marriott, Makeen Design Studio and Production House, Apex Media (Muscat Daily), and Oman FM. The judging panel from the key sponsors – Baur Nimr, Siemens and Voltamp Participating schools ABA ABQ Sohar International ABQ Azzan Al Sahwa BeaconHouse Downe House Ellesmere Muscat Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir Knowledge Gate International TAISM Performers – Al Sawha Elementary School students Winners Limelight of learning