Deal an ‘opportunity to promote sustainability in sport,’ Vipers’ owner says DSC will help team to boost its green credentials LONDON: UAE cricket franchise Desert Vipers has teamed up with the Dubai Sports Council to improve its sustainability credentials, it was announced on Friday. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The agreement will see the DSC become the lead partner in the Vipers’ sustainability program, as well as endorse its “Sustainability Match” against the Gulf Giants at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday. The council will also play a role in supporting the International League T20 club’s schools program, which is introducing cricket and the issue of sustainability into Arab and international schools across Dubai. Some of the measures already implemented by the Vipers include ending the use of single-use plastic water bottles in dressing rooms and replacing them with reusable ones filled with locally sourced water. The club is also the first Dubai-based sports organization to sign up to the United Nations Sports for Climate Action framework. The agreement was signed in the presence of Saeed Hareb, secretary-general of the DSC, and Vipers owner Avram Glazer. “Dubai has already set a precedent (in this field) by organizing international events, such as the European Golf Tour Championship – Race to Dubai and the SAIL GP race, that adhere to sustainability standards,” Hareb said. “Looking ahead, our commitment extends to expanding this initiative to include various sports, tournaments and facilities. Our goal is to spread the practice of sports and elevate its societal status, promoting health and happiness for everyone. “(The DSC) remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering an effective contribution of sports toward a green future. By doing so, we aim to create a world where all can enjoy a healthy and happy life for ourselves and for future generations.” Glazer said: “This is a proud day, a landmark day for the Desert Vipers, to join with the Dubai Sports Council in addressing the fundamentally important opportunity to promote sustainability in sport. “We are thankful for the farsighted approach of the Dubai Sports Council in joining with us to lead the way in this matter. Together we will set the path for others to follow.”