MANAMA, Bahrain – Military and civilian personnel attached to Bahrain Naval Support Activities (NSA) and Bahrain Public Works Department (PWD) donated their time to participate in events marking Earth Day on 22nd and 23rd April.
Earth Day is celebrated annually around the world with the goal of raising awareness, inspiring change and fostering a deeper connection with nature. Earth Day offers installations and commands a unique opportunity to build relationships with local governments and communities. The theme for Earth Day in 2024 is “The 3 C’s: Community, Critical Infrastructure and Climate Action.”
“This year’s Earth Day event contributed to conserving the host nation’s environmental resources and demonstrated the U.S. Navy’s commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Hawla Abu Idris, supervisor of environmental resource assessment.
To celebrate Earth Day, NSA Bahrain’s Environmental Resources and Assessment team, in collaboration with Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Bahrain, hosted a recycling booth aimed at informing facility personnel about proper recycling procedures, waste minimization and water conservation.
During the event, a blind tasting was conducted comparing Base produced drinking water with bottled water, with over 70% of participants preferring Base water. Joel Mathew, Energy Manager at the facility, explained the importance of global water conservation efforts and the steps NSA Bahrain is taking to support it.
“Water is a precious and limited resource,” says Matthew. “At NSA Bahrain, we purchase water from local authorities and then treat it to meet strict standards – a process that requires significant energy. So every drop of water we save translates into a dual benefit – saving both water and electricity. By implementing water conservation measures, we ensure the continued operation of our facilities while minimizing our impact on the environment.”
Bahrain NSA Commander Capt. Zakaria Aperauchi, Bahrain NSA Deputy Commander Cmdr. Jimmy Harmon, Bahrain PWD Public Works Officer Cmdr. Riley Smith, along with officials from the Bahrain Environment Agency and MWR, planted the native palm trees as a symbol and highlight of Bahrain NSA’s commitment to environmentally friendly efforts.
“We are continually implementing energy conservation measures across NSA facilities here in Bahrain,” said Mathews. “This includes retrofitting buildings with LED lighting and smart controls to promote energy. Every kilowatt saved enhances energy security and reduces environmental impact. Earth Day is a reminder of our shared responsibility to the planet. By embracing energy efficiency, renewable energy sources and innovative technologies, we are ensuring a safer, more sustainable future for our Navy and our planet.”
NSA Bahrain’s mission is to support U.S. and Allied maritime operations throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations by ensuring the security of ships, aircraft, and tenants aboard NSA Bahrain and assigned contingents. NSA Bahrain provides efficient and effective shore services to keep the fleet operational, the warfighter operational, and our families operating with honor, courage, and commitment.
