The workshop aimed to outline the importance of environment conservation ©UAE NOC

The United Arab Emirates National Olympic Committee (UAE NOC) has hosted the third edition of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) sports and environment lab, where a proposal to appoint an environmental ambassador was among a series of 30 recommendations discussed.

Held in Dubai, the workshop was attended by numerous experienced and highly qualified experts of the sporting and environment sectors, who were seeking innovative ideas.

Mohammed Al Kamali, general secretary of UAE NOC, and the organisation's executive office and event manager, Shaima Al Zarouni, were among those in attendance.

The participants were given a presentation by the UAE environment sector, which aimed to show the importance of conservation in creating a more sustainable and healthy environment.

Among the examples highlighted were the efforts of Beijing in attempting to reduce air pollution ahead of the 2008 Olympic Games, while Abu Dhabi’s nomination as an Arab Environment Capital in 2015 was also reviewed.

Following the presentation, the attendees were given the opportunity to submit their recommendations as part of the workshop.

Al Zarouni believes the event saw several new ideas raised with the aim of achieving their shared goal of reducing pollution and preserving the environment through sport.

A total of 30 recommendations were proposed by the participants
A total of 30 recommendations were proposed by the participants ©UAE NOC

"This workshop aligns the vision of our wise leadership that calls for enhancing creativity and innovation techniques in various disciplines,” he said.

“It helped us work out positive solutions and forward-looking ideas that bring about positives to future generations, and ensure sustainable development and translate the cherished aspirations and goals.”

Ahmed Al Hamidi, director of GCC Sports, outlined the recommendations, with the most vital seen as the appointment of an environmental ambassador who would spread their message.

Other key proposals included creating a star rating system for sports institutions in environment conservation, working with the media to raise awareness and the use of recycling tools in sporting events.

Reducing the use of private vehicles and encouraging public transport were also discussed, along with using smart water taps in sports facilities.