A new survey released by Procter and Gamble with YouGov Siraj, has found that concerns for water shortages in the region are higher than ever. In the UAE alone, water consumption is 550 litres daily per capita, three times the global average, resulting in massive fears for the future of fresh water for the next generation.
The survey has been conducted for the launch of P&G’s ‘PRO GEN’ educational campaign across the UAE and GCC, in collaboration with international research company YouGov Siraj to ‘Protect Future Generations’ by raising awareness of the tiny steps every individual can take today to make a big difference to the future of their own environment. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: · 25% of married couples with children in the UAE worry that there will not be enough fresh available water for their children · 28% of Emiratis worry that limited natural resources will be an issue for the next generation · 57% of Dubai residents take an active role in monitoring their water consumption to use only what is necessary · 24% of residents across Abu Dhabi and Dubai don’t believe their personal actions can make a difference to water consumption Commenting on the launch of P&G Gulf’s PRO GEN initiative, Yassin Attas, Director of External Relations, P&G Gulf, said: “This survey shows increasing awareness of the issues surrounding water conservation, but there is still a long way to go with a shocking 22% of people not believing their actions can make a difference. I hope the exciting P&G PRO GEN campaign will help turn that awareness into action, whether turning off taps whilst washing up or switching to a more environmentally friendly washing powder. The baby steps we all make today add up to a huge difference tomorrow, and may guarantee fresh water for our children in generations to come.” The educational and awareness aspect of this initiative includes P&G supporting the implementation of INJAZ-UAE’s Community Citizenship Programme with two pilot workshops for students, as part of its ongoing workshop series where students will learn skills to become good corporate citizens. During the workshops, students will be asked to come up with sustainable ideas that respond to pressing environmental issues. INJAZ-UAE works to mobilize the private sector to help create a new generation of motivated and professional graduates by sending corporate volunteers into classrooms to train students in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial literacy. INJAZ-UAE is an ongoing partnership between the business community, educators and volunteers to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy and an essential part of this is encouraging young people to become responsible corporate citizens and environmentally aware. Sulaf Al-Zu’bi, CEO of INJAZ-UAE said: “At Injaz, we know it is essential to work with business people and corporations to educate youth on key skills and concepts at an early age. We do this through a number of programs with different industries and sectors. In this case, students ought to know their important current and future roles in environmental protection and sustainability through such activities.” Jamie Wasky, Associate Director of YouGov Siraj, added: “Sustainability is a key issue in the region and this research shows there is an improvement in awareness but that there is still a long way to go in changing people’s perceptions on water and energy conservation. The survey indicated many people still do not believe their actions can make a difference. We look forward to repeating the survey next year and tracking the change in people’s attitudes.” Yassin Attas added; “Through our household brands from Ariel to Pampers, P&G touches the lives of people all around the world, and we recognize our responsibility to provide products that act to protect the environment for generations to come. All the brands driving the PRO GEN initiative have already changed their formulations to reduce the amount of water and energy used, and we look forward to working with other organizations like YouGov Siraj and Injaz-UAE.” How consumers can reduce water, energy and packaging consumption through P&G products: · Ariel detergent, designed specifically for front loading machines can use 40% less water than top loading machines, and is designed to be effective at 30 degrees instead of 40 degrees, using less energy. · A standard bottle of Fairy can wash up to 30,000 plates, reducing packaging requirements and saving in plastic and fuel. · Pampers Next Generation diapers are 20% slimmer than previous designs, allowing for a reduction in packaging waste and transport. · Duracell Rechargable batteries hold charge up to one year and can be recharged hundreds of times. · Always is behind some of the biggest innovations in feminine hygiene history.
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