Desert formations made from gypsum deposits and ancient coral reefs nonetheless make for a worthwhile visit when you travel to Qatar.

Just across the border with the United Arab Emirates is Jebel Qihwi, which offers some of the best hiking in Oman.

Near the oil town of Dukhan, Qatar, is a spectacular canyon formed by gypsum deposits and ancient coral reefs.

A former chemical engineer turned environmentalist, Sheikh Al Nuaimi of Ajman does his part to educate and persuade his people to moderate their lifestyles.

During our day trip to Musandam, Oman, I caught this sunrise as we drove through Sharjah. The desert haze and lone palm tree sum up this trip to the Middle East: warmth, an uncertain future, sublime beauty and promise.

One of the most beautiful sights in Oman’s Masandam Peninsula is Khor Najd, a 30 minute drive from Khasab.

Kamikatsu, a small town home about 2000 people in rural Shikoku, Japan, is a true zero waste community. I feature the town’s recycling efforts in Earth911.com.

My latest article in Guardian Sustainable Business is about the success Panasonic has gained from recycling appliances in Japan. The UK and other countries can learn from Panasonic’s success.