Dubai’s community shopping destination Time Square Center will host a four-day, full mall takeover “Sustainafest” during COP28 together with international broadcaster, retail and consumer expert, champion for sustainable living and founder of “Buy Smarter, Buy Greener” Kate Hardcastle MBE.
The long holiday weekend will see the whole Dubai community invited to a UAE National Day celebration like no other, where consumers are encouraged to ‘Buy Smarter, Buy Greener’ and celebrate all the great strides our home-grown businesses and brands are making in the bid to reduce the impact on the planet.
Kicking off on Friday 1st December and running until Monday 4th December, every day will see Time Square Center come alive with a schedule of educational and interactive talks and panels on the main stage, plus workshops and fun activities on upcycling, growing herbs, homemade beauty products, as well as music, dance and more fun suitable for the whole family. The event aims to not only teach visitors how to make greener buying decisions but to do so in a fun and accessible way, whilst celebrating all the great strides UAE businesses are making.
While COP28 will bring long-term commitments and announcements for the future of our planet, the power to create real change, and soon, lies with the consumer who can make a difference one buying decision at a time. By educating and empowering, we can teach consumers how to make better buying decisions and more sustainable choices – which can all add up to a big difference.
On partnering with Time Square Center to host this brilliant initiative, Kate Hardcastle MBE said, “It’s with excitement and a deep sense of purpose that I bring the ‘Buy Smarter, Buy Greener’ mission to Dubai as we set the stage for COP28. This initiative is more than just a campaign; it’s a call for consumers and brands alike to embark on a journey towards a more sustainable future.”
Hardcastle continued, “As consumers, our purchasing power is a tool for change. Every dirham spent is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. At ‘Buy Smarter Buy Greener,’ we’re not just talking about making eco-friendly choices; we’re providing actionable, supportive, and authentic advice to make those choices a seamless part of everyday life. We’re offering clear, straightforward pathways to greener living.”
Nancy Ozbek, General Manager at Times Square Center explains the vital collaboration between the community-driven mall and its tenants, “We are proud to be making a difference this upcoming National Day weekend, whilst also in alignment with COP28. By showcasing the pioneering UAE brands that are leading the charge in sustainability, visitors to Time Square will witness the commitment from local brands and mall tenants who are embedding eco-conscious practices into their DNA. Our community understands that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s the essence of forward-thinking business.”
‘Sustainafest: Buy Smarter, Buy Greener’ is set to be a vibrant hub of inspiration, education, and positive action. It is free to attend and visitors will explore how their choices can ripple outwards, fostering a healthier planet and a more sustainable society.
A full schedule for the four-day activation will be available in due course.,
Sustainfest: “Buy Smarter, Buy Greener”
Date and timing: Friday 1st December (2pm-6pm), Saturday 2nd December (2-6pm), Sunday 3rd December (2-6pm), Monday 4th December, (12pm – 2pm)
Location: Time Square Center, SZR, Dubai
For more information on Times Square Center and the upcoming event visit www.timessquarecenter.ae or follow @timessquaredxb on Instagram.
