By: Maj.Gen.Expert Rashid Thani ALMatrooshi, Director-General of Dubai Civil Defence Director
The declaration of 2023 as the year of sustainability under the slogan “Today for tomorrow”, by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, “God bless him”, represents the beginning of a sustainable future in various fields, as the UAE has been prioritizing the concept of sustainability since its establishment, and it continues to adopt sustainable future models based on balancing economic and environmental sustainability to enhance its security, safety and stability, earning it a position among the ranks of sustainable developed countries.
Throughout its eventful march to progress, the UAE managed to root its methodology in sustainability, as it continued to create a fertile environment with vast green spaces aimed at boosting and promoting environmental sustainability to make its land more sustainable.
This prompted the well-deserved selection of the UAE to host the global climate conference “COP 28” aimed at promoting international awareness of this climate issue and the associated challenges to help find solutions for climate change, environment, energy and other crises.
Furthermore, the choice of the slogan “Today for Tomorrow” highlights the UAE’s continuous efforts to strengthen the world’s role in dealing with sustainability challenges and finding innovative solutions for the present and future benefit of everyone in the fields of energy and climate change.
Moreover, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State said: “The slogan chosen for the Year of Sustainability embodies the UAE’s approach, goals and vision in the field of sustainability and its responsibility in facing challenges”, adding that: “Through our work, efforts and initiatives today, we create a better tomorrow for us, our children and grandchildren so that we can leave behind a positive legacy for future generations, as our fathers and grandfathers did for us”.
It is no secret that civil defence plays a major role in preserving and sustaining the environment, particularly the vital role entrusted to firefighters who fight fires in all their forms, to reduce the losses and environmental pollution resulting from them, as well as subsequent long-term effects on climate change.
Furthermore, cooperation among all members of society and the exchange of experiences as well as promoting the spirit of initiative and innovation in various fields with various institutions and local authorities represents a positive step towards raising awareness about the importance of sustainability and contributing to the achievement of its objectives through the launch of many initiatives and activities to support the 2023 environmental sustainability file.
