Green Cities

Earth Day in the Middle East and Africa

Earth Day 2014 is shaping up to be a huge success, particularly in Africa and the Middle East. Several countries in the region will have Earth Day events this year, including Tunisia, Ghana, Oman, and Iraq, just to name a few.

In Tunisia, the Maya Organization, an NGO hosted by the Higher Institute of Applied Biological Sciences of Tunis (ISSBAT) that promotes sustainable clean technologies and adaptation to climate change, will be hosting the “Go Greener Maya Competition,” through which university students will propose projects ideas to reduce, recycle and/or reuse waste within ISSBAT. The success of this micro-project will help the school decrease the amount of waste it produces. The best project idea winners will be announced on April 22nd and will receive an award.

In Ghana, the 4-H Million Tree Project is conducting a number of tree planting events at schools in celebration of Earth Day. In particular, the 4-Hers will start a mango tree planting project. The fruit will be sold to local retailers who make mango juice and the mango trees planted by 4-H students will help raise incomes among community members.

In Oman, students of GUtech, German University of Technology in Oman, are organizing an annual Earth Day Event at Al Sahwa Park. They will promote “green life” by selling local fresh products and encouraging people to plant trees. The event will also offer a variety of fun and educational opportunities for kids directed at teaching them how they can improve the world around them by planting trees and flowers.

And in Iraq, the Iraqi Green Peace Organization plans to create environmental clubs in primary schools and teach children how to protect the city and increase green spaces. Afterwards, they will work with the students on a volunteer reforestation campaign for schools, where they will be partnering with local foundations and volunteers from the community.

These are just a few of the hundreds of Earth Day events in Latin America and the Middle East. We wish all the participants the best of luck!