By ; Nelly All
The World Environment Day, which is celebrated on 5 June annually and focuses this year on ‘biodiversity,’ is particularly significant with the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The closures, quarantines, and the halt of air travel and transportation have contributed to decreasing greenhouse gas emissions around the world. The results of the measures are visible, as many countries that have implemented partial or full closures have reported a significant reduction in polluted emissions and greenhouse gases. Satellite imagery has shown signs of improvement air quality, as these emissions are usually associated with activities related mainly to transportation and the industrial sector. The World Environment Day helps direct global efforts to raise this environmental issue and make a positive change by encouraging stakeholders to protect the environment and biodiversity as well as promoting individual and collective responsibilities towards environmental issues. This contributes to combating climate change and achieve a balance between development and protecting natural resources,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
“Thanks to the vision and directives of our wise leadership, the UAE attaches great importance to biodiversity and protecting the ecosystem through several laws and legislation to sustain natural resources and rationalise their use, as well as creating natural reserves and raising awareness on the importance of protecting biodiversity. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) plays a pivotal role in protecting the environment by increasing its share of clean and renewable energy and launching several programmes and initiatives that encourage conservation to protect the environment and natural resources and ensure their sustainability for generations to come. In recognition to these efforts, DEWA received several environmental awards, including the Globe of Honour Award for Environment as one of only 7 organisations around the world, and with full marks. DEWA also received the Five Star Environmental Audit from the British Safety Council for 9 consecutive years. This puts DEWA at the forefront of sustainable organisations by fully complying with all local and international environmental requirements with zero environmental violations in all its facilities,” added Al Tayer.
