The Ministry of Finance has formed a special committee to apply  ”Green Policy” principles. The move emphasizes the keenness of the Ministry to adhere to concepts related to the environment and the importance of maintaining ecological balance and sustainable development

Mr. Ismail A. Al Marhoon, MOF Assistant Undersecretary for Resources and Information, said that the committee was formed according to the directives of H.E. the Minister of Finance to promote the Ministry’s contribution to creating a healthy, clean and safe environment.

He added that the environmental impact of activities conducted by the Ministry would be reviewed in order to identify the necessary measures that have to be undertaken.

Steps already taken in this respect include, among other things, increasing use of e-mail rather than paper in correspondence and internal memos, electronic faxing and archiving, giving priority in procurement decisions to products which comply with environmental standards, seeking the reduction of electricity and water consumption, and a total  ban on smoking at Ministry premises  in accordance with Decree No (8), 2009.

Mr. Al Marhoon concluded his statement pointing out that the Ministry of Finance would seek further progress in this direction through enhancing co-operation with the Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife as well as relevant international organizations and consulting firms.