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Qatar Tribune

QNB launches Blue Pledge campaign to protect marine environment in Qatar and globally

Tribune News Network Doha QNB Group, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, has organised the QNB Blue Pledge, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of preserving the marine environment in all the countries in which it operates, in implementation of its environmental sustainability strategy and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This initiative also aligns with Qatar's commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at protecting the aquatic environment and ensuring the sustainability of its resources, within the framework of global cooperation to address the growing challenges threatening marine ecosystems. QNB Group Communication Senior Executive Vice President Heba Al Tamimi said, 'The Blue Pledge initiative confirms QNB Group's commitment to establishing environmental sustainability standards and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which contributes to balancing economic growth with environmental conservation, in line with Qatar's vision for climate change. This step reflects QNB brand's commitment to the concept of sustainable business and its leadership in driving positive change in the countries in which we operate by supporting local initiatives aimed at protecting theenvironment.' In a symbolic gesture of great significance, QNB Qatar employees launched the #QNBBlue Pledge at Al Mathaf tower offices, marking the start of the initiative's simultaneous implementation across all subsidiaries and international branches. Employees released wish bottles containing their messages and aspirations for a sustainable marine environment for future generations. The Group's employees also conveyed messages via the bank's social media platforms calling for the adoption of environmentally friendly practices to combat the growing threat to the marine ecosystem caused by pollution. Ten lucky employees, who won the draw for sea wish bottles, enjoyed a unique sea excursion to observe whale sharks in Qatar 's northern waters, hosting one of the largest aggregations of whale sharks in the world. Over the course of two weeks, several international branches and subsidiaries implemented a series of initiatives under the umbrella of the #QNBBluePledge. The bank organised a workshop for its employees to paint sustainable bags inspired by the marine environment, a colorful, creative experience that transformed the bags into artistic objects. The initiative, titled 'Paint the Blue' was well-received by QNB Qatar employees, who expressed their love for the sea through the art of painting and colors. QNB also organised a seashell art workshop for the children of its employees. Participants in the event experienced a unique combination of creativity and immersion in marine life. They engaged with the beauty of the deep sea through painting and hands-on activities, gaining insight into the wonders and importance of Qatar's marine environment. QNB Egypt organised joined the #QNBBluePledge where employees shared simple eco-friendly practices to protect the marine environment at Al Alamein Beach in El Alamein City, Egypt. During this initiative, employees removed waste from the beach and engaged in other purposeful activities to preserve its natural beauty. They also convoyed messages on social media to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the marine environment and encourage the local community to take simple steps to protect the sea and the planet. On Ancol Beach overlooking the Java Sea, QNB Indonesia joined the #QNBBluePledge initiative by organizing an open workshop for its employees and their children. The workshop included several awareness-raising activities to protect the ocean from plastic pollution caused by single-use plastic. The event also included an educational and technical workshop on plastic recycling, where participants transformed plastic waste into innovative products such as sustainable bags and other accessories in partnership with 4GoodThings, a local company in Indonesia focused on sustainability and the production of recycled goods. During the workshop, the company organised an awareness lecture on plastic waste, during which participants learned about the harmful effects of plastic on the marine environment and the importance of recycling for conserving natural resources. The initiative helped motivate participants to protect the ocean from plastic pollution and take practical steps to reduce plastic use and dispose of it responsibly. QNB Tunisia, a subsidiary of QNB Group, organised a number of fun activities for the children of its employees under the theme 'Little Sea Guardians' to foster children's creativity and raise their awareness of the importance of protecting beaches and preserving environmental resources. Children participated in a variety of educational and hands-on activities under the supervision of specialists from the Al Aamaq Diving Association, stimulating their curiosity and deepening their understanding of environmental challenges. The events included an interactive scientific lecture about the impact of marine pollution on marine organisms and biodiversity in the seas and oceans, highlighting the importance of the marine ecosystem in the global fight against climate change. The children also participated in an art workshop to paint beautiful seascapes and marine life, expressing their attachment to the sea and their belief in the importance of their role in building a better future for our planet. Finally, participants signed the 'Blue Pledge' confirming their commitment to best practices to protect the blue environment for future generations. The workshop helped build awareness and instill simple habits among participants to become more environmentally responsible. In concomitance with the launch of the initiative, QNB Turkiye organized fun activities for children in nature within the 'Plastic-Free July' campaign. The activities took place in Belgrade Forest, Istanbul's largest and most famous nature reserve, known for its diverse trees, plants, and animals. During the event, children created sculptures from natural materials such as leaves, twigs, stones, shells, and more. They also had the opportunity to learn about the vital role forests play in protecting the environment, regulating climate, and preserving biodiversity. The event, organised in collaboration with the Turkish GYMY Kids initiative, which focuses on strengthening children's connection to nature and the arts, helped raise environmental awareness among participants through outdoor play and learning.