The Dubai Municipality has announced that it will be launching the Dubai Green Malls programme with an ambition to promote an eco-friendly shopping culture across mall complexes.The programme has been developed similar to the international voluntary scheme - Green Key Programme, which was launched by the Foundation for Environmental Education for accommodation and leisure. Any retail outlet can join the Dubai Green Malls programme.

As a first step, the retail outlets will be supported by Dubai Municipality to achieve environmental sustainability by focusing on their waste, energy and water management. The second goal is to raise awareness among residents and expats in Dubai.

The green malls will educate the public to adopt greener choices while shopping. Through the programme, the malls will demonstrate their sustainable practices as well as assist the government of Dubai in reaching the wider public with the intended message.

Green malls will also impart environmental education to the public about protecting natural resources, reducing energy and water consumption, reducing greenhouse gases, reusing, recycling and reducing waste generation while engaging in shopping activities.

Shopping is a happy experience for many where they can enjoy the rewards of their hard earned money, but only if this is done in an environmentally friendly manner, the Earth will be a happy home to the future generations. So lets all go for happy and responsible shopping at all times.