The Emirates Environmental Group, EEG, has announced the 16th edition of the ‘Clean Up UAE’ campaign to be launched on the 16th December, under the patronage of Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, at the Dubai Al Ain Road, near Dubai Outlet Mall.
Al Mansouri said that environmental protection practices are one of the most prominent manifestations of developed countries and societies. He highlighted the UAE’s keenness to instill a culture of preserving the environment and its resources, which are considered as assets for future generations and collectively form a pillar for achieving sustainable development. "The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan emphasised the importance of adapting to the environment on land and sea, which is not only a matter for government and official authorities, but one that concerns all," he added.
The minister went on to say that paying attention to the cleanliness of the environment, showing its beauty and elegance, and protecting it from waste and other dangers are vital to improving the environmental system and enhancing its sustainability. He also highlighted the great role of volunteer work in this regard, which is considered a great support to governmental efforts to protect the environment.
He emphasised the importance of ‘Clean Up UAE’ as a pioneering national initiative that stems from the values of Emirati society and is in line with UAE Vision 2021’s goal of maintaining a supportive and sustainable environment. He noted that this initiative represents a positive and practical reflection of the ‘Year of Giving’ which includes volunteerism among its three main pillars.
Habiba Al Marashi, EEG Chairperson, said that the role of the organisation to protect and preserve the environment has been clear and effective for 26 years. The Clean Up UAE Campaign, initially organised by the Group 16 years ago, coincides with the UAE National Day celebrations. The meaningful campaign hence contributes to the protection and enhancement of the natural heritage of the nation.
"When the campaign was first started in 2002, it gained participation from only four emirates. Successfully, with a large number of public, private and academic institutions joining the campaign in 2005, the group was able to unite all seven Emirates under the umbrella of this initiative.
"The current cycle of the campaign aims to emphasise the importance of working together to make the country a healthier place, as well as highlighting the responsibility and actions that the individual should take towards a better environment," she concluded.