Initiative on electric cars a huge step to protect environment

A UAE newspaper has said that climate change and the resultant global warming, pollution and depletion of natural resources have been plaguing our planet, forcing world leaders and the international community to fight the frightening consequences. What was once an abstract notion is today a challenge.

In an editorial on Tuesday, Gulf News said, "Dubai is paving the path for a cleaner, safer future by protecting the environment. Dubai has adopted a 360 degree approach in the fight to protect our planet.

"From saving the marine environment by guarding reefs and encouraging the growth of sea life to promoting home and organic farming, these steps are tailored to meet the challenges that we face. The latest decision, a huge step in environmental protection is to encourage motorists to switch to electric cars, thereby saving costs and reducing ground-level greenhouse gases.

"Under the incentives regimen, on offer until the end of 2019, new electronic vehicle buyers will be offered free electrical charging at Dewa-approved stations, free designated green parking in Dubai, free electric-vehicle registration and renewal, and free Salik tags. All electric cars will be have special licence plate stickers.

"In addition to the installation of 100 public electrical charging stations since 2014, a further 100 stations under the Green Charger Initiative will be built by 2018 in cooperation with the Supreme Energy Council and Dubai Carbon. Dubai Government has set a tariff of 29 fils per kilowatt hour at charging stations, reducing operational costs of driving when compared to traditional petrol-powered cars depending on size and model.

"This latest initiative supports the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 for Dubai to have the lowest carbon footprint in the world by 2050. A vision is needed to protect our planet. Dubai is leading the way," concluded the Dubai-based daily.