The CIOG said the UN 2010 Champion of the Earth award bestowed on President Bharrat Jagdeo is testament to the numerous contributions he has made to environmental issues both nationally and internationally.

In a press release the CIOG said Islam promotes the protection of the environment which guarantees healthy living.

The group said it is pleased to note that Jagdeo’s efforts to protect the environment are in keeping with the teachings of the Prophet Mohamed who promoted the planting of trees as food and shelter for man and animal.

The CIOG said it is hopeful that the world will recognise the benefits of protecting the environment and the disasters that can occur if it fails.