Several initiatives mark World Environment Day

People around the world celebrated World Environment Day on Friday and participated in numerous activities according to a report in Gulf News.
The Department of Economic Development (DED) launched a series of environment-friendly initiatives to mark the day.
They were aimed at promoting general awareness about sustainable environmental practices. The celebrations were attended by the management and employees of the organisation.
"The initiative reiterates DED's commitment to abide by all environmental laws and regulations to ensure a healthy environment. Therefore, DED is committed to enhancing its role within the community in supporting initiatives that promote sustained development and increase awareness of crucial issues such as global warming and toxic waste, desertification, pollution and excessive use of energy," said Omar Khalifa, Director of Administrative Affairs.
DED has distributed approximately 500 recycling boxes and bags to each employee and has replaced plastic bags with recyclable ones. It organised an internal competition for staff members on environmental issues.
The organisation also urged its employees to conserve energy by turning off all electrical appliances after working hours.