H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, confirmed that the alignment between environmental awareness and behavior is considered one of the main objectives that the ministry and related authorities seek to achieve through the recently announced National Strategy on Environment Education and Awareness 2015-2021.
Minister Bin Fahad said that the high level of environmental awareness will not have great value unless it is accompanied by positive behaviors towards the environment and its resources, pointing out that the importance of this event lies not only in its ability to raise environmental awareness, but also in its role as a medium for narrowing the gap between awareness and behavior, particularly in highlighting individual responsibilities in tackling global environmental issues such as climate change. Aside from the benefits that come from turning off lights and electrical appliances for one hour in the year, this event carries with it a symbolic significance of reminding society that its individual choices, no matter how limited, can make a significant difference for present and future generations.
The Minister also shared that generally, per capita electric power consumption in the UAE is high. In the domestic sector in particular, the region’s high consumption is responsible for a large proportion of greenhouse gas emissions, which everyone must actively work to reduce in numbers. The UAE has implemented an important set of actions in this regard, which includes setting mandatory national standards to enhance the energy efficiency of air conditioners, lighting lamps, and other household electrical appliances. However, individuals also share a big responsibility as their choices and daily practice can have a great impact in reducing energy.
In conclusion, Minister Bin Fahad urged all members of the community to minimize the consumption of electric power, either by buying low energy consumption appliances or modifying their routine at their homes or in their work places, He expressed his hope that Earth Hour will lead to positive habits that will enable society to maintain an appropriate and sustainable life style.
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