Electrolux, a global leader in household appliances, recently marked the launch of its annual ‘Give a Ghaf’ Tree Planting Programme with 500 students planting and dedicating Ghaf trees seeds at the Dubai British School in Dubai.

The programme is now in its fourth year of operation, with a total of 15,000 trees being planted so far across the UAE. This year, as part of the #ForTheBetter society, the programme aims to plant a further 5,000 Ghaf trees. The Ghaf tree is the national tree of the UAE and is part of the rich history and heritage of the UAE and Gulf countries.

Electrolux has partnered with Goumbook, a local social enterprise organisation in the UAE and GCC. The ‘Give a Ghaf’ Tree Planting Programme has been created to both educate and raise public awareness about the Ghaf tree and its properties, whilst encouraging people to plant indigenous trees to help protect the environment.

During the annual campaign Electrolux engages with local schools to talk about both sustainability and the importance of the Ghaf tree. At first even for this initiative in 2018, pupils had the opportunity to plant their own Ghaf tree seeds in the grounds of the school, in the attendance of the Swedish Ambassador Henrik Landerholm. Following this, the students then created a dedicated card to a friend or a family member, which they then hung on the dedication Ghaf tree, which would become a testament to their participation in the programme.

Lorenzo Milani, CEO of Electrolux Middle East and Africa said: "The Ghaf tree planting at the Dubai British School was a huge success. It was fantastic to see so many children participating in the planting programme and learning about the importance of sustainable development at the same time.”

“We’re also thrilled to play our role in the preservation of the regional environment as part of our commitment to the region and its drive for cleaner, healthier living. We have planted more than 15,000 Ghaf trees over the last three years, and we hope to reach 20,000 by the end of this year.

“We’re delighted to be here today, and I’d like to thank the Dubai British School for their hospitality, as well as the parents and children for being a part of this initiative,” he added.

Ros Marshall, CEO of Taaleem said: “Teaching the next generation about sustainability is a great way to foster the culture of giving back to the community from such a young age, and help enhance their understanding and appreciation for the  environment. The discussion and tree planting initiative was very informative, and the students learnt a great deal about how they can implement green practices and further their social responsibility.” – TradeArabia News Service