Cairo: Minister of Environment Yasmine Fouad announced that her ministry is actively working to include additional Egyptian cities in the Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI) global network, following the recent designation of Sharm El Sheikh as Egypt’s first green city by the network.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Sharm El Sheikh’s inclusion in the ICLEI network was achieved through its sustainable development strategy, which involved significant investments in renewable energy and infrastructure. The city has seen EGP 800 million invested in new and renewable energy sources, leading to the production of 51 megawatts of clean energy. Additionally, the city has developed 145 kilometers of bike lanes, introduced a public bike-sharing system, and implemented effective solid waste management systems.

Minister Fouad also highlighted that the next phase of their strategy involves activating the Sustainable Environmental and Social Strategic Development Strategy (SESSDS). This includes prohibiting the use of single-use plastics in 50 hotels, empowering local community initiatives in protected and coastal areas, and expanding collaborations with the private sector and international partners.