Two world-class German brands, Siemens and Volkswagen, and Rotana, the leading hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa, took part in the 'Clean the Desert' campaign as part of an environmental awareness drive focusing on the littering problem in the desert and the effects poor disposal of trash has on local wildlife.

The event, which took place on Saturday 17 March, saw 260 volunteers from Siemens, Volkswagen, Rotana and the general public, who registered on the Volkswagen Middle East "Think Blue" facebook page; embark on a cleaning spree which resulted in 1000kg of trash being collected during the one day event.

Commenting on the success of the initiative, Stefan Mecha, managing director, Volkswagen Middle East, said, "I am delighted that the 'Clean the Desert' campaign resulted in 1000kg of rubbish being collected by volunteers from all parties involved in this initiative. Through the Volkswagen Middle East "Think Blue" page more than 350 people registered their interest in supporting the 'Clean the Desert' initiative. It is very encouraging to see the commitment the general public has in supporting environmental issues and this is the first of many campaigns, as part of "Think Blue", which will focus on the wider environmental responsibility Volkswagen Middle East has to the region. I would like to thank Siemens and Rotana for joining forces with Volkswagen and to all volunteers that made this day a great success."

The trash collected will be disposed of in a safe and environmentally friendly manner by Averda Environmental Services, which specialises in turning waste into a resource.

"The desert has provided the lifeblood of the Middle East since the dawn of time, so it is critical that campaigns such as 'Clean the Desert' turn out to be a success because they help promote greater environmental responsibility in the community and subsequently the preservation of our ecosystem," said Erich Kaeser, CEO of Siemens in the Middle East. 

"Siemens has been present in the region for 150 years, so we understand the importance of taking care of the local desert environment and keeping it intact for generations to come. The initiative was a great success and we are committed, along with our partners, to organise more events of this kind and play our role in keeping the desert clean," Kaeser said.

Thomas Tapken, Area Vice President, Rotana Dubai & Northern Emirates, said, "We are extremely pleased with the outcome of this initiative and this is one of the environmental activities Rotana strongly supports. Rotana properties in Dubai & Northern Emirates were actively involved with more than 200 of our colleagues volunteering in this noble cause. We place great importance on corporate social responsibility and the 'Clean the Desert' campaign is definitely an environmental priority, and one of our many ways to help save the Earth."

"The campaign was a great success and I would like to thank all supporting parties including PlasticNotSoFantastic initiative, the online community expataktuell.de, Averda Environmental Services, KTM and Uschi Musch's camel farm," concluded Mecha.