“Dubai was the first Arab city to participate in Earth Hour in 2008 and has continued to relentlessly to do so by urging involvement from all sectors of the community as part of its leading role in building a sustainable future for the emirate,” said Saeed Mohammed Al-Tayer, vice chairman of the SCE and MD & CEO of DEWA, at a press conference.
Earth Hour is the largest global environmental event for the cause of planet earth in which millions of people across the world come together in a mark of solidarity against the biggest threat to our living environment caused by climate change, by turning off all unnecessary lights and electrical equipment between the hours of 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on March 31.
“As the threat of carbon emissions across the world becomes critical, it is vital that we all take action now to reduce our own levels of consumption by not needlessly wasting electricity and water. This will only be achieved by giving thought to our natural environment in our daily lives.” Al-Tayer added.
“All our properties, including Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall and The Address Hotels + Resorts will observe Earth Hour 2012, in addition to an array of events in Downtown Dubai, aimed at strengthening awareness of sustainable development,” said Ahmed Al-Matrooshi, managing director, Emaar Properties.
Last year’s Earth Hour celebrations in Dubai saved a record 204,000 kW/h and 122,000 kg of carbon emissions through the participation of individuals, businesses, government departments and educational institutions in the Earth Hour initiative. Festivities held by DEWA in Burj Plaza adjacent to the magnificent Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, attracted over 6,000 people who came together for the betterment of planet earth. This year DEWA is planning a similar celebration to further participation in the global cause.
Officials from Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (SCE), Emaar and Emirates Wildlife Society (EWS) also addressed the media.
The event, under the slogan “I will, if you will,” is held with the support of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and chairman of Dubai Executive Council.
Meanwhile, the environment department of Dubai Municipality said in a statement that it will mark the World Water Day with a range of activities during March 22-31 under the title “Water and Food Safety.”
Hamdan Khalifa Al-Shaer, director of environment department, said the objective of World Water Day is to focus international attention on the impact of rapid urban population growth, industrialization and uncertainties caused by climate change, conflicts and natural disasters on urban water systems. It also aims at encouraging governments, organizations, communities and individuals to engage actively in addressing the challenge of urban water management, educating the public and encouraging them to participate in environmental occasions.
