In celebration of National Environment Day, the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah (EPAA) has organized an initiative in City Centre Al Zahia. Taking place under the slogan “Climate Action Now”, the campaign will kick off with a beach clean-up in Khorfakkan on Friday, 4^thFebruary, followed by awareness-raising events and activities, environmental programmes, exhibitions, educational workshops, and lectures throughout the following week.

Supporting global efforts to preserve the environment

Her Excellency Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, said: “National Environment Day, which falls on 4 February each year, is one of the most important national environmental programmes. The event, which holds great meaning and serves as a reminder of the importance of the environment, has been commemorated for more than 20 years and we are keen to participate as part of our strategy, which is aimed at protecting and preserving the environment, biodiversity and sustainability.”

Her Excellency continued: “National Environment Day highlights the attention paid and care shown for environmental matters by our leadership. To honor this, the EPAA endeavors through this campaign to draw attention to preserving the environment and to promoting positive behavior among individuals.”

She urged community members to actively participate in protecting the environment and in supporting the Emirate of Sharjah in its global efforts to preserve the environment and to spread awareness of the need to take care of it and improve its resources, adding that the UAE has attained several achievements in this field over the years.

Importance of mangroves to the UAE

The campaign aims to introduce the public to the concept of air quality, which is measured by how clean or polluted air is. In addition, it aims to raise awareness of the importance of mangroves to the UAE, and how these trees reduce the percentage of carbon released into the atmosphere. As part of the campaign, a number of mangroves will be planted at Al Qurm protected area in Kalba.

The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah seeks to protect the environment, natural reserves, wildlife and their biodiversity through scientific studies and research. The authority publishes educational awareness material, implements policies for environmental awareness and programs, and launches specialized campaigns in the field of environmental awareness and education.