Barclays UAE participates in tree planting campaign across UAE

Barclays is a primary partner in the campaign which aims to draw awareness to this important environmental issue.

Under the patronage of UN Messenger of Peace HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, Ruler of Dubai, 'Stand Up and Take Action 2008' is part of the ongoing 'United Nations Millennium Development Goals Campaign', consisting of eight goals to be achieved globally by 2015.

Environmental sustainability is the seventh goal, with a worldwide tree planting initiative called 'Mission Green Earth' put in motion to drive this goal.

Barclays has set up dedicated areas within their service centres in the UAE to distribute ghaf tree seeds to volunteers.

The seeds will be distributed free of charge to those who register on the 'Mission Green Earth' website and pledge to plant trees as part of this exciting initiative.

The seeds, packaged in recyclable paper envelopes, aim to encourage UAE residents to plant the indigenous tree in their backyards, local parks or the desert.

Each envelope with clear planting instructions has been hand-packed and contains 10 seeds.

Barclays is a primary partner in supporting 'Mission Green Earth' - 'Stand Up Take Action'.

Ahmed Khan, Chief Executive of Barclays Emerging Markets Global Retail and Commercial Banking is delighted that Barclays is able to pledge their dedication to such a significant and important cause.

"We are committed to supporting this exciting initiative and encouraging citizens of the UAE to stand up and take action for the vital cause of environmental sustainability. Internally, Barclays employees across the UAE will be encouraged to participate in 'Stand Up Take Action' activities. It is critical that we take the important steps towards achieving environmental sustainability now, in order to preserve the world and its environment for future generations."

Considered the UAE's national tree due to its deep rooted role in the local environment and culture, ghaf is facing an uncertain future as it is slowly becomes endangered.

While ghaf grows naturally in the desert, they are being overgrazed by an increasing number of camels as well as being cleared to give way to rapidly expanding urban infrastructure.

The campaign is supported by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Humanitarian City. It is being organised by Art of Living and the International Association for Human Values.