In a context where raising awareness of the environmental impact of different economic sectors has become a priority, the collaboration between the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Civil Aviation in Egypt is of crucial importance. During the meeting between the Minister of Environment, Yasmine Fouad, and the Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh el Hefny, emphasis was placed on the need to intensify efforts to support environmental initiatives and promote ecotourism in the country.
One of the major issues discussed during this meeting is adaptation to climate change and the transition to a wider use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). This approach is part of a logic of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from aviation, while promoting the development of environmentally friendly tourism.
The Minister of Environment presented promotional films produced by her ministry on ecotourism and the Red Sea protected areas, which will be shown at airports to encourage tourism in Egypt. This initiative aims to raise awareness among travelers about the richness of local biodiversity and the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems.
In addition, the collaboration between the two ministries also aims to integrate the role of the Ministry of Civil Aviation in the national climate agenda, particularly through the implementation of Egypt’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the National Strategy for Combating Climate Change by 2050. This involves defining priorities for adaptation to climate change in the aviation sector and airport operations.
The ambition displayed by the Minister of the Environment is to work closely with the Ministry of Civil Aviation to set up an innovative waste management system in airports, starting with Cairo International Airport and Sharm El Sheikh International Airport. This approach is part of a logic of reducing waste generated by airport activities and promoting more sustainable practices.
Finally, the implementation of an interactive map on the impact of climate change reinforces the commitment of the two ministries to raising awareness and taking concrete action to protect the environment. This map will provide a clear and accessible visualization of the issues related to climate change, thereby raising awareness among stakeholders in the aviation sector and travelers of the environmental challenges we face..
This meeting between the Ministries of Environment and Civil Aviation in Egypt illustrates the government’s desire to take into account environmental issues in the aviation sector, while promoting sustainable and biodiversity-friendly tourism. This collaboration demonstrates the need to implement concerted policies to combat climate change and preserve our planet for future generations.