Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) will send some of their employees on a special expedition to the Amazon Rainforest in Peru in May 2016, as part of its ongoing efforts to achieve its vision to become a sustainable innovative world-class utility, and raise awareness about environmental issues, especially conserving natural resources and reducing carbon emissions.

The expedition, scheduled for May, was planned based on the success of DEWA’s last expedition to Antarctica, which was part of the 2041 International Antarctic Expedition initiative. The expedition aims to highlight the effects of global warming, raise awareness regarding the importance of preserving Antarctica and to stop major companies from drilling and mining in the Antarctic, by the time the international protection protocol expires in 2041.

"DEWA strongly supports the Dubai Plan 2021, and the long-term national Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative, launched by Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum , to make the UAE a pioneer in the field of environmental awareness," said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority.

Al Tayer explained that Peru was the destination of choice because of the clearly-visible effects of climate change within the Amazonian rainforest. He also mentioned that the expedition aims to study the effects of climate change on biodiversity, ecosystems and the inhabitants of the Amazon.

"DEWA takes priority in contributing positively towards the effects of climate change and is fully-committed to developing their employees and broadening their knowledge on the topic. Sustainability is a major part of DEWA’s government and public identity. Staff enthusiasm to participate in this expedition reflects their commitment as ambassadors to environmental issues and their desire to raise awareness on the importance of preserving our natural resources, for generations to come," added Al Tayer.

"The expedition will run for 12 days and will focus on 3 specific areas in Peru. These include the desert coast, the cloud forests of the Andes and the lowland rainforest. Once returned from the trip, the participating employees will join the ranks of already existing Climate Change Champions and share the knowledge they gained from the expedition, with the public, and other DEWA employees. Through this initiative, DEWA promotes a culture of sustainability among employees," Waleed Salman, Executive Vice President for Strategy and Business Development at DEWA.

Source:WAM