As part of the “No to SUP” initiative launched by the Arab Office for Youth and Environment, a large-scale field campaign was held in Luxor Governorate on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. The campaign was organized in collaboration with the “Together for Development” Association in Luxor and engaged 20 young men and women from the local community. The primary objectives were to raise awareness about the hazards of plastic pollution and to clean the Nile River of plastic and solid waste, thereby enhancing the city’s cultural and aesthetic appeal.
The campaign commenced with a preparatory meeting that outlined the goals and significance of the initiative. Participants received detailed instructions on waste types, classification methods, and proper disposal practices. On the day of the event, participants were divided into teams responsible for waste collection and sorting, activity documentation, and the retrieval of wastes from the river.
Several local entities supported the campaign, including the Local Unit of Luxor Center and City, the Ministry of Social Solidarity, the Solid Waste Unit, and the Ministry of Environment. The collective efforts resulted in the collection of a substantial volume of waste, which was sorted and sent to recycling facilities. This initiative is a step toward improving the city’s image and presenting it in the best possible light to its visitors.
At the campaign’s conclusion, participants expressed pride in their contributions to the cleanup of the Nile River and emphasized the importance of ongoing environmental awareness and sustainable practices that reflect the cultural heritage of Luxor. The initiative aims to expand its efforts across other governorates in Egypt, striving to create a plastic-free environment while preserving the beauty and integrity of the nation’s tourist destinations.