Dubai, Feb 7 (IANS) The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has observed its 13th National Environment Day, WAM new agency reported Sunday.

Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat) took part in the celebration with its slogan 'Emirates free of plastic bags'. The event was organised by the environment ministry.

The event aimed to raise awareness on environment and social health issues. Various government departments, economic institutions, schools, universities and civil society organisations participated.

Hussain Kazim, Emarat corporate communications manager, said the corporation is well aware of the risks posed by the use of indecomposable plastic bags on the environment.

He said: 'Emarat stands committed to taking strict measures to ensure that we play a responsible and active role in the local community to reduce such waste.'