(Dubai) – Earth Hour 2016 has achieved outstanding results for Dubai, as organised by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority for the ninth consecutive year, in line with the directives of Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council.
Earth Hour 2016 activities saw a 222MW reduction in the consumption of electricity, and a reduction of 96 tonnes in carbon dioxide emissions. This reflects Dubai’s commitment to protecting natural resources and reducing the country’s carbon footprint.
Through this annual event, DEWA aims to raise awareness among the community and promote the rational consumption of resources as part of daily life, in addition to highlighting the importance of protecting the environment to make a positive change, and supporting national efforts to enhance sustainable development in Dubai.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, and MD and CEO of DEWA participated in the activities. Government organisations, private companies, universities, schools and individuals also took part.
Earth Hour 2016 included a host of family and entertainment activities to spread environmental awareness. In cooperation with the Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence, DCCE, DEWA launched the Carbon Neutral Initiative, to neutralise all carbon emissions during Earth Hour. This was achieved by projects based on the Kyoto Protocol, which is directly linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. DEWA also launched its ‘Shine a light on Climate Action’ campaign, to raise awareness about the dangers of the increasing effects of climate change, and emphasise the importance of the rationalised use of electricity and water.
(Courtesy WAM)