"Green Sheikh" speaks at Etihad Headquarters

Known fondly as ‘the Green Sheikh’ for his eco-friendly initiatives, His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi discussed his unique concepts and ideas about environmental sustainability at a presentation hosted by Etihad Airways at the airline’s Training Academy Auditorium on April 27.

Sharing his personal projects and achievements in environmental preservation and social empowerment in the context of the unique cultural heritage and history of the UAE, Sheikh Abdul Aziz discussed the major challenges faced today and how people can address them at home, in the workplace and in their communities.

Sheikh Abdul Aziz said: “As the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, it is vital that that Etihad staff understand the importance of protecting the environment.

“I am delighted to be able to share my experiences in promoting environmental awareness to the communities across the country and my ideas for a brighter future in a cleaner and more sustainable environment in the United Arab Emirates.”

Sheikh Abdul Aziz is the Environmental Advisor to the Ajman Government, CEO of Al Ihsan Charity Centre and Chairman of Green Base Environmental Services. He has a formidable list of academic qualifications, including a doctorate from Griffith University in Australia, bachelor degrees in petroleum and chemical engineering and several diplomas in environmental and related studies.

Sheikh Abdul Aziz is an active member of dozens of environmental groups and regularly makes appearances in the media as a representative of the environment, encouraging various initiatives in sustainability and eco-friendly development.

James Hogan, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “It was our honour to host His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi, a true visionary in the field of environmental and social sustainability.”

“His inspirational ideas were appreciated by everyone who attended our first management forum for the year, which focused this time on the subject of sustainability, one of the items at the top of our business agenda.”

The Green Sheikh was also on hand to officiate at the opening of Etihad’s ‘Green Room’, a project to showcase, trial and promote eco-technology and sustainable living practices, which may then be used more widely by the company and by its staff individually and within the community.

James Hogan said: “The green room is a milestone on our environmental journey, and is itself a work in progress. It is very much a dynamic initiative, changing and developing as our vision and achievements broaden and as new products become available which we feel are appropriate to sustainability in the corporate environment.”

The Green Room, which is located in Etihad’s Training Academy features a range of environment-friendly products, including automated blinds to minimize solar heat gain; occupancy light sensors to reduce electricity use; atmospheric water dispensers from humidity, and recycling bins.