Dubai: An idea to set up a UAE air quality network has been approved for implementation by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The network will work on collecting unified data on the environment from all around the UAE with the aim of providing accurate data on the quality of air in the country.
Shaikh Mohammad approved the idea on the sidelines of the creative lab brainstorming session organised by the Ministry of Environment and Water, which was held at the Mohammad Bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation.
Shaikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, was present.
Shaikh Mohammad ordered the immediate implementation of the network following detailed studies carried out in this regard, which will pave the way for launching it as a project in the coming period.
Shaikh Mohammad listened to different suggestions and ideas proposed during the session, which saw the participation of more than 100 individuals comprising environment experts and representatives from the private sector and various federal government and local sectors who discussed a number of key environmental issues.
“The UAE and its citizens deserve so much from us, and at the forefront of such requirements is a healthy environment and fresh air. We have to be ahead of time by innovating more sustainable solutions,” said Shaikh Mohammad.
The Vice-President stressed that preserving and protecting the local environment is at the forefront of his priorities, and is a matter which he closely follows up because it affects the health of society.
“President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan continues to follow in the footsteps of the late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan in protecting the environment by participating in international efforts that aim to implement a green economy strategy. This includes implementing the UAE’s green development strategy, launching massive projects that serve the people of UAE and the world and preserving natural resources,” said Shaikh Mohammad.
Addressing the participants at the session, Shaikh Mohammad urged them to further expand their discussions and come up with realistic ideas. “This requires you to head out into the field in order to interact with the people, acquaint yourself with environmental challenges and come up with necessary solutions. We hope that you will come up with unprecedented ideas and solutions for tackling all environmental challenges,” said Shaikh Mohammad.
He emphasised the role and responsibility of the private sector as a key partner and supporter of environmental initiatives and projects that contribute to achieving an environment that is free of pollution for the health and safety of society and preservation of natural resources.
Also attending the session were Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd, Minister of Environment and Water, and other officials.
