The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) is taking part in the global event Earth Hour 2016 held in March each year, in conjunction with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. The move belongs to RTA's keenness to play an active function in achieving sustainable development in Dubai, and raise its profile through constantly catering to the requirements of the civilized world about conserving the environment.

Nasir Abu Shehab, Acting CEO of Strategy & Corporate Governance Sector cum Chair of the Energy & Green Economy Committee at the RTA, said: "The RTA has charted out a prepare for this year's Earth Hour events, which will be begun today from 08:30 pm to 09:30 pm. Occasions involve a number of activities highlighted by the participation of members of Energy & Green Economy Committee in celebrations at The Avenue Park, and the deployment of the Innovation Bus to run tests for children going to The Avenue Park focused on environment, energy, green economy, and paper recycling aspects among others.

"Events to be held by the RTA consist of turning off lights of 1393 light poles to save about 382.95 kilowatt within one hour only in the Business Street and other streets in the vicinity of the events place at the Business Bay, Al Saada Street, and the Boulevard Street at Burj Khalifa district. Lights as well as some air-conditioners will likewise be turned off at RTA Head Office, Public Transport building in addition to Al Rawiyya & Al Khawaneej stations, and Jebel Ali Bus Depot.
"RTA's activities marking the occasion will likewise be highlighted through the involvement of some bus motorists, cabby and parking inspectors put on in their official uniform in the accompanying march, besides encouraging staff members to take part in Earth Hour events through internal messages and the intranet.

"RTA's efficient participation in Earth Hour events is a testament to the priority put on environmental sustainability. In 2013 the RTA established the Energy & Green Economy Committee, launched a fantastic award in this field in 2014, and inspired workers to contribute ingenious concepts in support of this drive. The RTA sets the greatest standards for its jobs in order to deal with the global warming phenomenon threatening the healthy environment worldwide. The UAE in general and the Dubai Emirate in particular can attaining this goal," concluded Abu Shehab.