International Environment Day

American University of Beirut (AUB) Beirut - Riyadh Shooman International Day for Biological Diversity was celebrated  by the Ebsar Centre for the Protection of Nature for a Sustainable Future at the campus of  the American University of Beirut (AUB)  during the sixth annual exhibition called "Creativity”, with the participation of more than 150 students from ten departments of the university. The exhibition showcased environmentally-sound inventions by students including natural insecticides, double-glazed panels,  windows which work as a buffer during the day and a source of water during the night, an edible bottle which can store water and prevent evaporation, energy-saving curtains, spray made from pine oil  which makes the plants absorb more water, and a solution extracted from urine which helps plants grow faster. Students also produced posters, designs, stories, educational publications, summaries of research aimed at preserving biological diversity,  and highlighting the leading role of the university in the region. The common denominator between all the projects was that they are environmentally friendly, use a minimum amount of polluting substances and combat desertification. Jamal Bank representative Mohammed Fehily, following the  distribution of prizes to the winners said that the aim of this year's exhibition "is to show our support for the outstanding young talent in its efforts to protect the environment." Head of the exhibition, Dr Mohammed Abyad explained: "The exhibition has given the students the opportunity of research and innovation, participation, cooperation in multi-specialisation solutions to promote sustainability and the environment." Dr Najat Saliba, Head of the Ebsar Centre, said that this type of activity "encourages nature conservation through research, education and working with the community and we need to be supported by everyone.”