omran partners with environment society of oman

Published February 10th, 2008 - 08:05 GMT
Al Bawaba
Al Bawaba

Omran has partnered with the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) to launch the first of its kind recycling program in the Sultanate. Twenty recycling bins will be placed in fourteen international and private schools in Muscat with an estimated number of 13,000 students participating in the initiative.

In recent years, recycling has gain great impetus in regional and international communities due to its proven results of preserving forests, conserving resources and reducing pollution and solid waste. Rigorous scientific research also supports the benefits of recycled paper where government agencies, environmental groups, and other large purchasers across the world have adopted policies mandating its use.
On the occasion, Tim Redman, Chief Operating Officer of Omran said, “Tourism and the environment are closely interlinked and we are proud to be working with ESO to increase awareness on the importance of recycling to facilitate the transfer of knowledge for sustainable development.” He added, “When we recycle, we are taking a step away from ourselves and begin to think about our community, country and the Earth as a whole, taking a proactive step to preserving the environment for future generations.”
Nida Helou, Manager of ESO, expressed, “We must not underestimate the impact each individual has on making a difference and with this program, we hope to foster a new generation that is empowered with the knowledge and passion to save the environment by integrating simple recycling behaviors in their daily lives”.  Helou went on to say that with the overwhelming response received to date, the program will undoubtedly grow further to include new schools across the Sultanate and expand to other recyclable materials such as plastic and glass.
Established as a fully government-owned company, Omran is spearheading efforts to further expand the tourism industry in Oman through the development of more than 10 resort-style projects in excess of US$5 billion, which are expected to be completed within the coming five years. In addition to promoting Oman as a unique Middle East destination, the Company is deeply committed to sustainable tourism whilst preserving the environment and natural sanctuaries in the Sultanate.
The Environment Society of Oman (ESO) was officially established on 24 March 2004. ESO is the only environmental NGO in Oman. Its mission is to conserve the natural and human environments of the Sultanate of Oman through the enhancement of environmental knowledge and promotion of sustainable consumption and production practices at the community, business and decision-making levels.