It's sad that we have so much disregard for the place we live in (Bicycle among 1.3 tonnes of waste recovered in Sharjah underwater clean-up, February 9). I can't imagine the condition of marine life. It suffers so much because of our callousness.
Lisa Justice, Dubai
Some people seem to think that an ocean or a lagoon is just a giant bin to throw their rubbish into. Because they can’t see the rubbish once it sinks, they don’t realise the consequences of their behaviour.
Such actions damage the marine ecosystem. They can also harm other people, who could get injuries or diseases swimming in polluted, debris-filled waters. UAE residents must learn proper waste management. More awareness campaigns should be launched to show the devastating effects current habits are causing to our environment.
Naila Tariq, Sharjah
Why SMEs are crucial for our economy
We have to be careful in striking a balance between public and private sectors (Sheikh Mohammed announces major Government shake-up to prepare UAE for the future, February 9). It's clear that with falling oil prices, the Government can't simply keep spending.
However, what is equally required is incubator funding to help SMEs grow. SMEs are the backbone of any economy. They allow citizens to run their own business, thereby reducing their dependency on Government jobs.
If sustainable development is an objective then putting people in business should be the prime mover.
However, to be truly sustainable funding must be supported with education, training and mentoring.
Randall Mohammed, Dubai
Enforcement is the key
I agree that fog lights should be compulsory and people need to drastically change their driving habits (Fog lights aren't the full solution, February 9). But more importantly, the teaching methods need to be completely standardised. There also needs to be far more rigorous enforcement of all laws. And start teaching them young with traffic safety lessons at school.
Dave Pryce, Dubai
I think the problems on the roads here are far bigger than a set of lights that illuminate the first five metres in front of the car.
Luca Cima, Dubai
Here’s an idea that I guarantee would change things for the better: set up police checkpoints and pull over motorists at random. Test the tint of their glass and if it’s illegal impound the cars there and then. Fog lights are only of any use if the driver can see through the windscreen in the first place – time to get tough and not allow anyone to get away with this stuff.
It won’t take long for people to change their ways; they just need to feel some hardship now and then. You can have all the money in the world but if you’re left stranded on the side of Sheikh Zayed Road in rush hour because your Land Cruiser has just been towed away then you’ll feel some genuine pain. And you just might think twice about your motoring habits in the future.
Name withheld by request
City honey a new trend
I admire the efforts of Slow Food Dubai volunteers (Dubai's first urban rooftop garden proves good food can be grown in the heart of the city, February 9). They should add a beehive. City honey is the newest trend in Berlin. Plants in the cities don't have as much pesticides as in farmland.
Omar Jaramillo, Germany
Propaganda is never helpful
Thank you for the article London exhibition showcases unity between Muslims and non-Muslims in battle (February 9). It is one of the best I have read in a very long time. Propaganda and lies breed fear when there is nothing to be feared. The UAE is a prime example of acceptance of different nationalities, cultures and religious beliefs. It's all about accepting and respecting the differences. If we all follow these examples, the world will probably be a better place to live.
Name withheld by request
