On 8 November 2013, Azadea Foundation, an NGO managed, financed and sponsored exclusively by Azadea board members and employees, hosted a Media Roundtable, in collaboration with Jouzour Loubnan and AFDC, which highlighted the increasing need to preserve Lebanon's greenery and the importance of green public spaces in our community. Led by Azadea Foundation's Chairman Marwan Moukarzel, the discussion shed light on Azadea Foundation's latest project: the restoration of the Rene Mouawad, Sanayeh Garden. The dedicated Foundation, which is the CSR arm of regional retail operator Azadea Group, introduced guests to its 'Green Booth' which is set to tour several locations in Lebanon throughout the month of December to spread much needed 'green' awareness, giving Lebanese citizens, both young and old, an opportunity to engage and be part of the restoration project.
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Moukarzel said, "We strongly believe in the wealth our natural environment presentsto us and as a dedicated and committed Foundation, it is our dutyto preserve its quality and diversity. Azadea Foundation is proud to have teamed up with AFDC and Jouzour Loubnan to foster environmental awareness while assuming a proactive role in protecting our precious natural resources and maintaining green breathing areas in Lebanon." He adds, "With the Rene Mouawad Sanayeh Garden restoration, we would also like to create a path for future green opportunities, only hoping that other organizations take on such initiatives and contribute to the betterment of our Lebanon."
Dr. Magda Kharrat, Vice President of Jouzour Loubnan, said, "Azadea Foundation's 'Green Booth' will revive the green pulse in the urban population and most importantly raise awareness amongst the youngest generations. We are counting on them because they are the decision makers of tomorrow!"
With green in mind, the booth's first set up will be in Le Mall Dbayeh, followed by Le Mall Saida, Beirut Souks and Le Mall Sin El Fil. The activities scheduled to take place will allow people from all ages to participate in interactive yet educational environmental activities such as seed planting and recycling, and puzzle making and drawing for children. The Green Booth will also engage and excite visitors about the restoration of the Rene Mouawad Sanayeh Garden through a live documentary and a fun Facebook game created specifically for the occasion.
Azadea Foundation is looking to preserve the greenery in the historical perfect 22,000 square meters garden. Located in the heart of Beirut, the garden will include several amenities including children playgrounds, bicycle and running tracks, an amphitheater, an exhibition area and reading areas, all in line with international standards. The restoration of the Rene Mouawad Sanayeh Garden is planned to be completed by May 2014 and Azadea Foundation has commissioned itself to take care of maintaining the garden for the upcoming 10 years, investing not only $2.5 million for its renovation, but a projected $2 million for its maintenance as well. Azadea Foundation is dedicated to providing the public with a park of international standards, allowing citizens the luxury of having a green public place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
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