Manama, 28 Feb 2018 – Bahrain is taking a bold stand against marine litter and for the health of our oceans by joining some 40 other nations in becoming a member of the CleanSeas Campaign, pledging to keep our oceans healthy and litter-free.
In support of the Clean Seas Campaign, the Government of Bahrain will be implementing a range of initiatives to increase awareness on marine litter and its impacts through national campaigns on reducing plastics use; engaging with partners to undertake focused Clean Seas activities including beach clean-up days and other events; organise events to advocate for reducing the use of single use plastics and plastics packaging and promote the recycling of plastics and other materials, and continue the national focus on protection of national marine reserves and natural resources.
"It’s exciting to have Bahrain join us in the fight against marine litter,” Erik Solheim, head of UN Environment said. “By joining the CleanSeas campaign, they are showing great support from a vitally important region and we hope more nations will follow.”
The announcement took place at the premises of the Supreme Council for the Environment. Dr. Mohamed Bin Daina, Chief Executive Officer of the Supreme Council made the announcement, joined by Mr. Erik Solheim, Executive Director of UN Environment, and Mr. Sami Dimassi, the Director and Regional Representative of UN Environment.
UN Environment launched #CleanSeas in February 2017, with the aim of engaging governments, the general public, civil society and the private sector in the fight against marine plastic litter. Bahrain is the 41st country to join the global effort.
NOTES TO EDITORS
About CleanSeas
UN Environment launched #CleanSeas in February 2017, with the aim of engaging governments, the general public, civil society and the private sector in the fight against marine plastic litter.
By connecting individuals, civil society groups, industry and governments, UN Environment aims to transform habits, practices, standards and policies around the globe to dramatically reduce marine litter and the harm it causes.
About UN Environment
UN Environment is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. UN Environment works with governments, the private sector, the civil society and with other UN entities and international organizations across the world.
For media enquiries, please contact:
UN Environment News & Media, unepnewsdesk[at]unep.org
