Abdul Muqeet the child behind 'Mukku Bags'

Ten-year-old Abdul Muqeet, also known as Mukku, made saving the environment his life's mission when he was only eight. Inspired by a suggestion from his school principal to use paper bags, curious Mukku asked his father "why is paper better than plastic". As his father explained the impact of non-biodegradable plastics bags, Mukku began thinking of ways to help save the planet, what he can do personally and how he can get others to adopt the idea of caring for the environment. For the past two years, Mukku has been making bags using old newspaper. He creates the paper bags almost every day after school. To date, he has made and distributed about 4,500 bags to supermarkets, stores, malls and other outlets. "I make 10 to 15 bags every day, except on exam days," Mukku told Gulf News. His schoolmates call them "Mukku Bags" and earned him the monicker of "paper bag boy" among peers and supporters. His efforts of making paper bags and distributing them in the community are meant to encourage paper recycling and to reduce the use of both paper and plastic. Furniture stores like The One endorsed his idea and advised their customers to use "Mukku Bags". "Mukku is our hero. He has been delivering bags of different shapes and strengths for various purposes weekly for over four months," Clare Andow, The One Theater Manager, told Gulf News. Mukku is never shy about stopping a stranger in the store to deliver his message. He waits for customers at the checkout counter and politely asks for a minute of their time to explain about the environment. "I tell them that recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees," explained Mukku. The message and the messenger resonate with customers. "It's a very good idea to involve children, as the new generation is our hope for a better future," said Amani, an Egyptian shopper. Mukku has held demonstrations at events in various malls across the UAE. His mother said he has also received several honours from dignitaries for his commitment and efforts. One such honour is the Abu Dhabi award from Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Minister of Environment and Water Dr Rashid Bin Fahad and Director General of Abu Dhabi Education Council Dr. Mugheer Al Khaili. "When we saw his enthusiasm, we wanted to nurture his interest and support his efforts," said Andaleeb Fatima, Mukku's mother. Mukku's parents accompany him to spread his message. He has done more than 50 demonstrations across the country, such as at the Zayed University, Sharjah Museum, Al Ain Municipality, and Environmental Agency of Abu Dhabi. Mukku was invited by the Abu Dhabi Municipality to showcase his work and demonstrate how to recycle old paper during the Earth Hour at Corniche on March 31. Mukku's work seems never ending. "I want to tell mothers that every child can give back to the community. We are seeking permission to launch a club for children to encourage them to participate," Fatima said. For those pressed for time, Mukku summarizes his campaign with a slogan: "Plant more trees…Use less water…Recycle More…Use less plastic".