Muscat: An exhibition is currently taking place alongside Oman Climate Week, highlighting the latest advancements and technologies related to climate change and environmental conservation. This event is hosted at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.
In line with its dedication to bolster regional initiatives aimed at combating climate change and promoting sustainable development, the Qatar Foundation-affiliated center known as “Earthna” is showcasing its vision and key research findings on environmental and sustainability challenges.
The Qatar Foundation, in collaboration with the Environment Authority, aims to strengthen strategic partnerships and share expertise to develop policies and programs that support the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs) at the regional level, particularly in the area of environmental conservation.
Mohammed Alaa El-Din Mohammed, Sustainable Development Principal Expert at Earthna, stated, “Our participation in Oman Climate Week marks a significant advancement in fostering collaboration among GCC nations to tackle climate change. This initiative highlights the increasing focus on sustainable solutions and emphasizes the necessity of enhancing regional cooperation among leading GCC institutions to create a meaningful and lasting impact.”
He further noted that the Earthna center is informing participants at Oman Climate Week about the White Papers Initiative 2024, which was developed in line with the outcomes of the Qatar National Dialogue on Climate Change 2024.
The annual event, as explained by the speaker, was organized by the Earthna Centre in collaboration with various partners to tackle the challenges posed by climate change and to foster sustainable development. This initiative aims to facilitate dialogue among government officials, industry leaders, environmental specialists, and civil society representatives.
He further noted that the White Papers initiative encompasses a set of recommendations and policies designed to enhance efforts toward achieving a low-carbon economy in Qatar and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
Mohammed Alaa El-Din Mohammed emphasized that Oman Climate Week serves as an essential platform for presenting these papers to policymakers and experts, creating new avenues for dialogue and collaboration on the implementation of these recommendations.
He mentioned that the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development focuses on missions, programs, and initiatives centered around education, research, innovation, and community development, all aimed at fostering community growth in Qatar and beyond.
The exhibition, which took place alongside Oman Climate Week, showcased youth-led initiatives in environmental conservation, including a project titled “Our Footprint is Different.” This non-profit youth initiative addresses methods for achieving environmental sustainability and raising awareness within the community.
The initiative aspires to drive positive and sustainable change through a variety of innovative environmental programs and activities, promoting ecotourism, cultivating a sustainable culture, and encouraging individual participation in environmental protection. It also aims to implement activities and programs that offer creative solutions for enhancing the local environment, including initiatives such as “Let’s Plant,” “Sustainability Ambassadors,” “Women Environmental Leaders,” “Green School,” “Green View,” and “Capture Nature.”
The Climate Ambassadors Initiative is dedicated to addressing climate change and sustainability challenges by promoting environmental awareness and enhancing the capabilities of individuals and communities throughout the Sultanate of Oman. This initiative aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of climate change, biodiversity, and the management of natural resources, while also advocating for sustainable practices that mitigate environmental impacts.
The Environment Conservation Initiative focuses on environmental education, awareness, and media engagement. It utilizes podcasts to disseminate knowledge, aiming to elevate public consciousness and inspire positive environmental behaviors. Key components of the program include dialogues, audio content delivered through podcasting, and the creation of digital educational resources. The Oman Water Society addresses environmental challenges related to climate change, water, and air quality, exploring sustainable agricultural practices powered by green energy.
Eng. Zahir bin Sulaiman Al Salmani, Chairman of the Oman Water Society, highlighted the organization's commitment to water-related issues in Oman, emphasizing research and the development of effective solutions for associated challenges. He noted that the Society's objectives include promoting research, conducting training programs, and fostering collaboration among various institutions, organizations, and individuals.
The Madad Development Foundation, which specializes in youth empowerment and participates in Oman Climate Week, is focused on climate change, environmental conservation, and sustainability issues.
Alia Bilarab Al Batashi, a spokesperson for the Madad Development Foundation, stated that the exhibition serves as a platform for fostering collaborations with governmental and private entities, investors, and individuals committed to environmental conservation.
She further emphasized that the exhibition plays a crucial role in achieving tangible societal benefits by promoting environmental solutions and advocating for the adoption of more sustainable practices within the community. -ONA.
