Under the slogan “Race for Air,” Egypt marked the sixth annual World Clean Air Day for Blue Skies 2025 with a vibrant celebration at the Wadi Degla Protected Area. Organized by Egypt’s Ministry of Environment and supported by the World Bank-funded Air Pollution and Climate Change Management Project, the event united government officials, environmental experts, youth volunteers, and civil society members for a day dedicated to raising awareness and promoting sustainable actions to improve air quality.
Leadership Commitment and National Priorities
Dr. Manal Awad, Egypt’s Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, reaffirmed that improving air quality is a top priority for the Egyptian leadership. She emphasized that government efforts go beyond policies and projects—they aim to empower citizens, especially youth, to become active environmental advocates.
“The activities today reflect a collective commitment by civil society, the private sector, and diverse community groups,” Dr. Awad said. “This race is against time, harmful practices, and anything that threatens our children’s right to breathe clean air. It is a shared mission for a sustainable planet.”
Sustainable Transport and Awareness
Dr. Mohamed Hassan, the National Coordinator of the project, highlighted that the running and cycling races send a strong message about active, sustainable transport as a practical alternative to reduce emissions and improve air quality.
The event also featured a large-scale cleanup campaign, led by enthusiastic youth and children volunteers equipped with biodegradable gloves and bags. They removed plastic, paper, and other waste across the reserve—immediately enhancing the environment and supporting air purification.
Hands-On Workshops and Artistic Expression
Shaded tents hosted interactive educational workshops where participants learned to transform recycled materials into art, deepening their understanding of waste reduction and everyday air pollution prevention.
An awareness exhibition showcased recycled products, creative slogans, and artistic designs made by attendees, expressing innovative ideas to combat air pollution and protect the environment.
International Collaboration and Global Impact
Laurent Louis, Environmental Specialist at the World Bank, praised the strong partnership between the Egyptian government and the World Bank in addressing air pollution through integrated projects targeting major sources such as transport, waste, and industry. He emphasized that World Clean Air Day is a global platform to raise awareness of the health, economic, and environmental impacts of pollution and encourage cooperative action worldwide.
About World Clean Air Day
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2020, World Clean Air Day is observed annually on September 7 to spotlight air pollution challenges and motivate governments and individuals to take effective measures. The day particularly focuses on protecting vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly, while promoting eco-friendly transportation such as walking, cycling, and public transit.
A Joyous Conclusion and Renewed Commitment
The celebration concluded with award ceremonies honoring winners of races and competitions, reflecting a day filled with enthusiasm and hope. The event underscored a successful partnership model among government, civil society, and the private sector with one clear goal:
