We invite you to join us on this International Mother Earth Day, as we renew our commitment to protecting it and unite together for the preservation of our environment and the future of our generations.
Each year on April 22, the world celebrates International Mother Earth Day. As I reflect on this occasion while I write down these words, I’m struck by the notable increase in temperatures across various regions worldwide, including the capitals of countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), where we lived a normal life just a few years ago.
For instance, the Tunisian capital recently experienced temperatures surpassing their typical norms. As we enter the early stages of spring, this escalation makes us wonder about what awaits us in the upcoming summer due to climate change and its impact.
As a consequence of the climate crisis, our region has been plagued by devastating floods in recent years, such as those that inundated the Sultanate of Oman last week, notably impacting the state of Al Mudhaibi. The harrowing and sorrowful scenes unveiled the extent of the destruction, sparing neither structures nor lives. Tragically, dozens have already lost their lives, including children, and the aftermath has resulted in significant material losses and widespread infrastructure damage, profoundly affecting the lives and livelihoods of citizens. It’s crucial to highlight that the same catastrophic storm simultaneously affected the United Arab Emirates and several other countries in the Arabian Gulf, unleashing unprecedented amounts of rainfall within a single day, resulting in substantial losses and disrupting numerous businesses, even after it subsided.
These scenes serve as a stark reminder of the flood disaster that befell Derna and other cities in eastern Libya last September, claiming the lives of at least 4,352 individuals and displacing over 43,000 others, according to a United Nations report. Additionally, we must not overlook the torrential floods that ravaged the Al Haouz province in the Moroccan city of Marrakesh a few months prior to the catastrophe in Libya.
Recently, the region has witnessed escalating impacts of climate change, alongside environmental challenges that are exerting pressure on natural resources, necessitating urgent and efficient action to address them. Summer temperatures have surged across many countries, resulting in arid lands and water scarcity. Conversely, winter seasons have brought about very low temperatures and erratic rates of precipitation, varying from year to year. For instance, Egypt has grappled with drought conditions in recent years, while Lebanon faces major challenges due to soaring temperatures and seasonal wildfires, which have also afflicted Syria, Tunisia, and Iraq. Notably, Iraq ranks among the countries with the highest levels of air pollution and risks of drought in our region.
The succession of these extreme weather events serves as a stark reminder that our Earth confronts the daily threat of climate change throughout the year. This peril is no longer confined to abstract discussions but has evolved into a painful reality, affecting the lives of millions worldwide. However, can we enact change for the better? Absolutely! Through the “SAWT” platform, you have the opportunity to make your voice heard and initiate environmental petitions for change. Whether you seek to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change or advocate for reducing environmental pollution, such as minimizing plastic usage in urban areas, enhancing water quality, or safeguarding reserves and green spaces, SAWT provides a platform for action. Ultimately, International Mother Earth Day presents an occasion for collective introspection regarding the impact we have on our planet and how we can effect positive change and make a difference in the world. Every day should embody the spirit of International Mother Earth Day. Let us remember that our Earth does not pause its natural abundance, and it is up to us to diligently protect it and mitigate the harm we inflict upon it.
Let’s join forces to safeguard our planet, as it merits our utmost care and dedication.
Join us now!
The “SAWT” Platform Team
Are you concerned about an environmental issue? The solution is now one step away!