The Egyptian newspaper Al-Watan has been awarded the Arab Network for Environment and Development prize for its film "Farewell to Diesel, Hello to Renewable Energy". The film, produced by Al-Watan's investigative team, explores Egypt's transition to renewable energy. The award was announced on September 20, 2026, and was celebrated on the evening program "Masaa DMC". The program, hosted by journalist Dina Al-Wakil, highlighted the achievement and its significance in promoting environmental awareness.
The film "Farewell to Diesel, Hello to Renewable Energy" was created by Al-Watan's investigative journalist Khaled Abdel Rasul, who leads the newspaper's investigative team. The film is accompanied by a written investigation of the same name and was produced with the help of colleagues Osama Hamam, Saeed Hamdi, and Ahmad Faraj. According to Abdel Rasul, the film's goal is to shed light on the challenges of relying on diesel and the benefits of switching to renewable energy sources.
The transition to renewable energy is a crucial aspect of Egypt's national security and future, according to Abdel Rasul. With experts predicting that oil reserves will run out within the next 10 to 20 years, the need for alternative energy sources has become increasingly urgent. The film showcases the difficulties faced by farmers who rely on diesel-powered irrigation systems, including high costs, frequent breakdowns, and maintenance requirements.
The use of diesel-powered irrigation systems has become a significant burden for many Egyptian farmers. The high cost of diesel, combined with the scarcity of fuel and the disruptions caused by global events such as the Iranian war, has made it increasingly difficult for farmers to maintain their livelihoods. As a result, many farmers are turning to renewable energy sources, such as solar power, to reduce their costs and improve their productivity.
Solar energy, in particular, has proven to be a viable alternative for many farmers. Although the initial investment in solar panels can be high, the long-term benefits are substantial, with farmers reporting savings of up to 80% on their electricity and irrigation costs. This reduction in costs enables farmers to improve their products and increase their competitiveness in the market.
The success of Al-Watan's film has been celebrated by environmentalists and journalists alike. The Arab Network for Environment and Development prize is a prestigious award that recognizes outstanding contributions to environmental journalism. Al-Watan's achievement is seen as a significant step forward in promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices in Egypt.
The Egyptian government's efforts to promote renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels are ongoing. The film "Farewell to Diesel, Hello to Renewable Energy" is seen as a valuable contribution to this effort, highlighting the benefits of sustainable energy sources and the need for a rapid transition to renewable energy. The film's message is expected to resonate with a wide audience, inspiring individuals and organizations to take action in support of a more sustainable future.
Key points
- Al-Watan newspaper wins Arab Network for Environment and Development award for film on renewable energy
- Film explores Egypt's transition to renewable energy and the challenges of relying on diesel-powered irrigation systems
- Solar energy emerges as a viable alternative for farmers, offering significant cost savings and productivity improvements
