Dubai-based FS International has signed a $47 million joint venture with Denaro International of the US for the sale and installation of the world's most advanced fuel vapour recovery systems.

FS, in collaboration with US and Japanese partners, will head the effort to substantially reduce the levels of gasoline vapour released at gas stations. This recovery system is unique.

"With more than 400 stations in the UAE there is a significant amount of gasoline vapour released into the air every year. Our mission is simple - a cleaner environment and less toxic air for our children," said Fadi Semaan, FS managing director.

"Our concern for the environment and people's health is a primary objective."

"We have the technology to make our air less polluted and to create a healthier working environment. People will feel the difference not just around gas stations but all over the UAE.

"We are a UAE-based company and would like to contribute globally; if not for us then for our children. We are hoping that this shall be the start of a similar operation with our American and Japanese counterparts that will be underway in the rest of the Gulf states as part of our phase two 12-18 months from now," he added.

Takamaro Toyooka, president of Denaro Japan, said the amount of gasoline lost to gas companies through evaporation has been estimated at more than $10 million every year.

Semaan said: "One can clearly feel it when one steps out of one's car and smells the gasoline in the air. The removal of that vapour is beneficial to the environment, the gas companies and to customers."