The UAE pavilion in Yeuso Expo 2012 in Korea witnessed a positive response to efforts by the UAE to protect the marine environment. The UAE’s efforts were highlighted in a movie titled ‘Turtle’, and a series of other films produced by the National Media Council that touch upon issues related to the environment. Ali Khamis, an Emirati actor that featured in the 12-minute film ‘Turtle’, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the film is a message from the UAE to the world on its efforts to protect the marine environment and oceans, and its leading role in preserving environmental balance. “The film was shot in 13 days in various locations in the UAE, like Fujairah, Dibba, Abu Dhabi and the Western Region. I hope the movie is shown in the UAE in various universities, schools and TV channels to spread the message of environmental awareness,” said Khamis. Ahmad Al Dahoori, who plays the role of a boy called Ali, said that he would not use non-biodegradable plastic bags anymore due to the dangers it cause to the marine environment, an initiative which has also been adopted by the UAE government. In the movie, Ali experiences deep sadness over the passing of a turtle, Lu’lua (Pearl in Arabic), who has been the subject of study and observation for 40 years and passes away due to swallowing a plastic bag thinking that it was a jellyfish.