Earthwitness starts its journey here, on a mission to promote ‘green values’ in the emerging Green Economy. When we began planning Earthwitness, we heard the question many a time, “A magazine on environment – that too in the Middle East?”
The cynics were of the opinion that the local market wouldn’t support the publication. But our massive optimism prevailed. It is easy to take a stand on protecting the environment, but when it came to launching a publication on the environment, we had to see it as a business proposition.
Guided by the essence of the old African proverb, “If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for something,” we decided to make a stand – for a better now. The founders of the magazine have a very clear vision: Earthwitness is only the medium, the witness; it can never be the message. The message, however, must come from you – government officials, industry and business principals, technocrats, and managers – the decision makers and takers.
The debate on climate change has hit the mainstream consciousness; global warming is taken more seriously by the world community as the scientific evidence becomes more undeniable. It is a good sign for our planet that people are more open to change than being comfortable in the status quo. Early indicators are encouraging; the Middle East is getting ready for the Green Economy.
For the green economy to work, we need people participation and partnerships. It is becoming clear that there are economic incentives in cleaning up our environment, and compelling disincentives in leaving it alone. The green economy presents a multitude of business and trade opportunities for everyone. Governments have a very key role to play; providing leadership in this war against global warming, and also in regulating the market where necessary. Masdar and WFES’08 are classic examples of Abu Dhabi government leading the way.
The influential private sector is massive in the Middle East; it too must play a positive role to make the ‘green economy’ work. Earthwitness will be your witness for the green economy, as we start our journey in this first edition. (Editorial, Launch Edition, February 2008)
