Enthusiastic start to 'Clean Up UAE' campaign

Dubai: Attitudes and consumption behaviour have to change to combat long term environmental pollution and waste management, said the Minister of Environment and Water on Tuesday at the opening of the Clean Up UAE four-day campaign.

The ministry is setting up new regulations to limit the extensive reach of plastic bags issued from shops, among other initiatives.

"We have to reduce waste from the source. The UAE has taken some initiatives and practical measures," said Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahd.

Nearly 20,000 volunteers joined in to drive the green message home.

A dhow also took divers to Deira creekside to take part in an underwater clean up session to collect waste materials which have discarded into the ocean.

The campaign, which is observed under the banner "Start Today...Save Tomorrow," is being held between November 18 and 21 at various sites across the emirate.