DAMASCUS, (SANA) - Ministry of State for Environment Affairs and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) on Wednesday signed a memo of understanding on launching a Paper and Plastic Waste Recycling project in state schools in the old city of Damascus.

The first stage of the project includes sorting out waste at source through ensuring special containers at the public schools in Old Damascus, which will be followed by other projects that contribute to achieving sustainable development and preserving environment.

Minister of State for Environment Affairs Kawkab Sabah al-Daya said the project will provide more job opportunities and support to the poor families, underlining the importance of cooperation among all sides to raise environmental awareness.

Al-Daya added that the project will be launched throughout the Syrian provinces in the future, indicating that a comprehensive campaign to raise awareness on the importance of recycling solid waste will be launched at the same time.

AKDN Resident Representative in Syria Mohammad Mufdi Saifo reviewed the AKDN role in developing rural societies, taking into account environment conditions to preserve natural resources and rationalize the use of water in agriculture.

Deputy Governor of Damascus Ahmad al-Nabulsi stressed the governorate's readiness to provide support to protect the environment.

R. Raslan/H. Said