(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Sharjah saved 22mw of energy during this year's Earth Hour. The earth hour event organised by The Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in collaboration with the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (Sewa) was held through a variety of activities at Al Majaz Waterfront on March 19.
Themed "This Earth Hour Shine a Light on Climate Action" the event was part of the emirate's initiatives to protect the environment and raise awareness on the importance of reducing energy consumption. The lights-off event included an awareness exhibition about Earth Hour a themed wall graphic selfies educational workshops audience competitions entertaining clowns glow-in-the-dark T-shirts and educational brochures. Hana Saif Al Suwaidi Chairperson of the EPAA said the event not only saved energy but also attracted a large crowd of people who learned a great deal about their necessary roles in conserving the environment. "This event reflects the attention paid by the emirate to the environment and its eagerness to lead the way in joining international environmental movements in support of sustainable development in the UAE." The EPAA lit candles on a sculpture that bore the Earth Hour "60+" logo during the lights-off period from 8.30pm to 9.30pm. Speaking to Khaleej Times Al Suwaid said Sharjah was able to reduce energy consumption by 30MW and reduce 18 tonnes of carbon emissions in the Earth Hour last year. The emirate aims to expand the participation to more organisations in the city of Sharjah and the Eastern Region of the Emirate to achieve even better results. The emirate called upon residents to switch the light and electrical equipment off to protect the earth. Dr. Eng. Rashid Al Leem the Chairman of Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) said: "We are pleased to take part in Earth Hour and make such great achievement of saving 22MW during this hour.... Public engagement in environmental initiatives would make a positive change in community." Public Private participation The departments and authorities which joined the Earth Hour included the Sharjah Police Headquarters Sharjah International Airport Authority
The Ministry of Interior Emirates Foundation For Youth Development represented by Sanid Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (Al Wafa School for Developmental Training) the Supreme Council of Family
Affairs (Department of Medical Services) and Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah. Afkar Abdullah