Zayed prize programme begins with high-powered conference

Addressing the gathering, HH Sheikh Abdullah thanked the overseas delegates who had flown in to attend the event and said, "This conference will debate on key issues that are of significance to the future of our environment. Pollution is a worldwide problem which is becoming a serious dilemma for politicians and scientists around the world and the aim of the Zayed Prize is to call upon the scientific fraternity to find effective solutions to make our world a better place to live in and for societies to harness their resources in a more environment-friendly manner."

He added that the whole movement would not become a reality unless we conduct ongoing scientific research and constantly look for advanced techniques to reduce stress on the environment. "In the UAE HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan our President has left no stone unturned to provide our countrymen with a good environment by providing adequate resources to attain this goal and we are confident that this conference will discuss atmosperic pollution and throw light on means to evade the potential environmental disasters that can arise from unsustainable development.

"The conference marks the inaugural segment of the Zayed Prize programme that is ongoing at the Dubai World Trade Centre till February 25th and is intended to turn the spotlight on a topic which is vitally important for all of us in today's world," said Dr. Mohammed bin Fahad, Chairman Higher Committee of the Zayed Prize. "Pollution of the atmosphere affects each and everyone of us, though fortunately we in this part of the world are not so affected by it as yet, it is imperative to draw attention to the need to curtail its spread even as our society continues its rapid development," Dr. bin Fahad added.

The day's proceedings, which drew a goodly crowd of delegates and invitees, began with the screening of a documentary on the Environmental H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, followed by speeches by Professor Godwin Obasi, Secretary General Emeritus, WMO on the State of the Earth Atmosphere and Climate; Professor Mostafa Tolba, Executive Director Emiratus, UNEP and President, International Center for Environment And Development on The Role of the UN in Developing Atmospheric Pollution Control Strategies and Institutions; and Professor Bert Bolin, Professor of Meteorology at Stockholm University on Integrating Science and politics in Atmospheric Pollution Control.

After the inaugural speeches poster presentations and informal discussions were held.

The Zayed International Prize for the Environment 2004 is worth US$ 1 million and is the largest and most valuable environmental prize in the world. It was established in recognition and appreciation of the environmental achievements of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence is the patron of the Zayed Prize, and will be presenting the award.

The Zayed Prize was instituted to promote the sustainable development and conservation of the environment through innovative pioneering contributions and achievements performed by various sources, ranging from scientists to institutions, and to reward outstanding achievements and contributions in the field.

The award ceremony will be held at The Dubai International Convention Centre. The event is designed to offer insights from international environmental experts while at the same time marking the launch of Envirotex and will provide an opportunity for participating exhibitors to come forward and display their commitment to the environment as well as exhibit environmentally friendly products.