On the subject of environment conservation and climate change, countries of the Middle East have a comparatively low profile. But over the years massive developments in business, industry and real estate have come about at the cost of the environment. Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain have some of the highest CO2 and greenhouse gas emmisions in the world.

The Reason:
Although rapid development and extensive use of petroleum and natural gas in the region may prove as a major contributing factor, I do feel that the common public have an equal share in the blame. For example in the UAE alone the people take full advantage of the extensively available electricity resources without reviewing their wastage of these resources. Having unnecessary lights turned on in the morning is nothing new in this part of the world. The 1991 Gulf War which is considered the biggest environmental disaster caused by a war also adds to a few of Kuwait's reasons.

The Figures:
Citizens in the Gulf states produce 10 times the amount of CO2 than an average world citizen. If everyone in the world lived like an average UAE resident, we would require 6planets to regenerate our resources and absorb CO2 emissions. Although awareness regarding such issues is on a massive increase the reduction of CO2 emissions sadly isn't. The Middle East as a whole contributes to only 5% of global emissions but that does not rule out the fact that if this continues in the current pace, we would be living in a dangerous environment in a decade or two.

What can be done?
Apart from awareness what are the major steps can be taken to drastically reduce our CO2 footprint? The UAE is a symbol for the region and the world for trying its level best to reduce emissions. Not only have they invested in projects like The Masdar City but they are looking to make all future development sustainable and environment friendly with minimal CO2 emissions. This has created a ripple effect and neighboring countries are initiating similar projects as well. It might not bring about an immediate change but it still safeguards the environment on the long run.

Do feel free to suggest what we as the youth can do to help tackle this problem.