JEDDAH, 1 August 2007 — A major move is being initiated today from all sectors of society and industry to protect the environment with a major awareness campaign. The drive, labeled “My Environment, My Responsibility,” will continue till Aug. 14.
Agencies involved in the campaign include the Center of Excellence for Environmental Studies (CEES), Presidency of Meteorology and Environment, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), King Abdul Aziz University (KAU) and the private sector including Tetra Pak.
The program will provide the community with an insight into sound environment protection techniques. One of the highlights of the program is a road show at Jeddah’s Aziz Mall where different topics will be addressed by environment activists and academics starting today.
The road show will focus on an Islamic perspective on environment protection, types and sources of pollution, effects on health, occupational safety and address home waste reduction and suggest tips to reduce health risk. Interactive sessions and fun-filled competitions have also been lined up for the kids.
“In today’s world, the environment has become a major concern for everyone. Like any other country, the environmental situation in the Kingdom is very challenging and needs solid efforts to help set up the stage,” Suhad Bahjiri, head of nutrition research unit at King Fahd Medical Research Center at the KAU, told a meeting yesterday. Faculty members, students and JCCI and private sector representatives were among those present.
“The environment is directly related to life — the quality of air, water, soil, energy and food,” said Suhad who also heads the environmental health group at CEES.
“Recent studies conducted by the Saudi Research Group revealed that environmental hazards constitute major factors that affect human health,” she said, adding that the studies estimate that 30 to 40 percent of all diseases may be attributed to environmental risk factors including ozone depletion and air pollution.
“We are delighted to see socially responsible companies from the private sector like Tetra Pak actively contributing to the success of our program and eventually leveraging the environmental awareness in the Kingdom,” Suhad added.
The JCCI is deeply committed to the protection of environment and has been cooperating with official and private agencies in creating awareness among all sections of people, said leading businessman Mohammed Ali Al-Attas on behalf of the JCCI.
“We are running our business in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner. We set goals for continuous improvement in our development, sourcing, manufacturing and transportation activities giving top priority to the environment,” said Rauf Hameed, communication and environment manager, Tetra Pak Arabia.
