Green Sharm Project Achieves Milestone: Cuts 85,000 Tons of Emissions and Installs Solar Streetlights

Egypt's green transformation in the tourism hub of Sharm El-Sheikh is gaining significant momentum through the 'Green Sharm' project, which has successfully reduced greenhouse gas emissions by the equivalent of 85,100 tons and installed 891 solar-powered streetlights across the city. According to official data from the Cabinet's Media Center, the initiative is a cornerstone of the national strategy to transform Sharm El-Sheikh into a leading sustainable and eco-friendly tourist destination on both regional and international levels.

Project Scope and Strategic Goals

The 'Green Sharm' project is being implemented over six years in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the South Sinai Governorate. It aims to establish Sharm El-Sheikh as a comprehensive model for green cities, supporting Egypt's broader sustainability and environmental conservation efforts. The project covers a 42-square-kilometer land area of the city, in addition to marine and coastal zones within the Ras Mohammed, Nabq, and Abu Galum nature reserves, thereby enhancing the protection of biodiversity in one of Egypt's most vital tourist destinations.

Tangible Results and Solar Energy Investments

To date, the project has delivered concrete outcomes, including the implementation of 50 public and private sector projects with total investments of approximately $19.9 million. In the clean energy sector, a package of solar energy projects with a combined capacity exceeding 4 megawatts has been completed. These installations include solar stations at Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport, the city museum, and several schools, hospitals, and hotels. Additionally, 891 solar-powered lighting poles have been installed throughout the city, significantly reducing reliance on the traditional power grid.

Driving a Sustainable Future

These efforts have raised the total renewable energy capacity in Sharm El-Sheikh to around 55 megawatts, representing approximately 18% of the city's total electricity consumption. This milestone solidifies Sharm El-Sheikh's status as a green tourist destination and a pioneering model for sustainable development in Egypt. As global markets increasingly pivot toward clean energy in tourism and transportation, the 'Green Sharm' project is expected to attract further investments in green infrastructure, benefiting both the tourism sector and the local environment on a global scale.