The Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences at American University of Sharjah (AUS) stressed the importance of sustainability during the annual Environmental Day 2016 event held at the university's Main Building today, April 14, 2016.

The theme of the event was "Preserving the Future of Gulf Ecosystems." It drew approximately 400 attendees from schools across the UAE and aimed to inform high school students about the careers in the sciences as well as job market requirements. The event promoted awareness of local, regional and global environmental issues and protection measures. The program also highlighted the university's bachelor of science degree programs in biology, chemistry and environmental sciences.

During his welcoming remarks, Dr. Björn Kjerfve, AUS Chancellor, spoke about environmental sustainability and its importance for us and our future generations. He talked about coastal and estuarine physical oceanography and explained the relation between global warming and the effects of carbon dioxide on the ocean.

Dr. Mahmoud Anabtawi, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, also welcomed the high school students to AUS, encouraged them to pursue their degrees in science programs at AUS, and stressed on the notion of being part of a change in environmental sustainability. He concluded by thanking the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences for its hard work and for making this event a success.

Mohamed El Shahed, Director of Student Recruitment; and Dr. Sandra Knuteson, Chair of the Environmental Day Committee, spoke on the occasion as well, welcoming the students and delegates, and thanking them for their participation.

The day's activities also included an address entitled "Developing Policiesfor Biodiversity Conservation" by Nessrine Alzahlawi,AUS alumna, Unit Head- Biodiversity Policy, Abu DhabiEnvironmental Agency.

Professionals, members of the AUS community and students from UAE high schools attended the event, which also included an environmental quiz competition for schools in the afternoon.