A survey has revealed that nearly two-thirds of 18-29 year olds in the UAE want to protect the environment and take part in events and activities that benefit the natural world.

The research, released on Arab Environment Day, was conducted by YouGov polled 500 people about efforts to protect the planet and found 65 percent of young people were keen to do more to protect the UAE environment.

Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, director general of Emirates Nature-WWF, said: “Young people are the change makers and future leaders of sustainability, so it is important that we find ways for youth to connect with nature and nurture their desire to make a positive impact in the UAE.

"The team at Connect with Nature has created a brand new app and a packed new season of exciting, inspiring and fun events to do just this. This programme has been created for youth, by youth and will adapt to the changing needs of young people, to drive environmental sustainability in a fun and engaging way.”

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Other key results from the survey included that 70 percent of young people want to have access to more information about ways to help the environment, while 72 percent want to spend more time outdoors in nature.

Connect With Nature, one of the UAE’s largest youth environment programmes, aims to reach and inspire 500,000 young adults, through digital and physical experiences, and plans to raise awareness and knowledge, plus provide the necessary skills for young people to become future sustainability leaders.

It has announced the launch of its brand new digital app and website, with a host of new features and a calendar of events that includes activities such as floating under the moonlight at the National Mangrove Park and riding through wadis and exploring ancient heritage sites, to youth panels, debates, and competitions focusing on sustainable fashion.

In addition to organised activities, people can also use the Connect With Nature app to get out and about in nature, with a selection of self-guided challenges.

The research also showed a strong desire among young people to actively alter their lifestyles for the environment, with 7 out of 10 young people saying they would make changes to their daily life in order to protect the planet.

“There is a real desire among our youth in the UAE to make switches to their lifestyles for the benefit of the environment and society. If many people make a small change it can add up to a huge positive effect and now through Connect With Nature, people can join the movement to explore, interact and make a difference,” added Abdullatif.