Anti plastic bag campaign goes on road again

From December 25th to December 27th the ESO team visited areas such as Sohar beach, Sohar University and Sohar Park, aiming to provide an enjoyable and informative experience to all residents, and encourage a better understanding of the damage that plastic causes.

Said Al Saqri, ESO team leader of the tour, said:

"So far we have received an excellent response from the general public both in Sur and Sohar. We are aware of the fact that we play an important role in promoting a responsible, environmentally-conscious attitude amongst the general public, and seeing the response of the people is very rewarding."

To help Omani citizens and residents cut down on plastic bags, the ESO team has handed out 1,000 free reusable bags as well as informative literature and presentations. "ESO's effort is admirable; it is a long-due initiative and if we all change our behaviors and act together we will soon see the benefits," commented Khalid, a Sohar resident. Another Sohar resident, Muna, added, "We cannot change things overnight but education, information and alternatives are the keys for a plastic-free future."

H.H. Sayyida Tania bint Shabib Al Said of the ESO, said, "The success of the campaign would not be possible without the dedicated support and participation of all partners, organizations and citizens. We all need to make an effort at changing our behavior towards our frivolous use of plastic bags that often end up as Litter. Input and data from locals, residents, environmental experts and city officials are being used to create a document with Policy recommendations which could be used by the government as a stepping stone to regulating plastic bag usage in Oman."

As the main promoter of ESO Oman LNG can only be satisfied about the response, and Dr. Brian Buckley, CEO of Oman LNG, said, "The campaign so far has been very successful and we hope that everyone throughout Oman will take responsibility for preserving environment."

The road show will continue in 2009; next areas will be Nizwa in January and Ibra in February.