Abu Dhabi Recognised As First GCC Member Of UN University Network For Sustainable Development Education

Abu Dhabi has been recognised as a member of the United Nations University (UNU) network of Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs) on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). This achievement makes Abu Dhabi the first centre in the GCC region dedicated to environmental education and sustainability. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) will lead this initiative through its digital platform, naha, aiming to enhance knowledge sharing and promote best practices in sustainable development education.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, highlighted the significance of this recognition. "The recognition of Abu Dhabi by the United Nations University as the first regional centre for environmental education in the region underscores our forward-thinking approach to sustainability. It marks our commitment to strengthening environmental awareness and education for sustainable development. By harnessing the latest innovations and modern technologies, we continue to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s leadership in global environmental action."

The EAD is committed to enhancing community involvement and building partnerships globally and regionally. This aligns with their strategic framework aimed at fostering conservation and development. By engaging communities, they support Abu Dhabi's vision for a sustainable future that benefits both current and future generations.

The naha platform integrates various initiatives designed to empower community participation in environmental stewardship. Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director of Environmental Information, Science, and Awareness at EAD, stated that these initiatives include the Sustainable Schools Initiative, recognised by UNEP, the Sustainable Campus Initiative, and the Sahim Citizen Science Programme.

The RCE network operates under a multi-stakeholder governance model involving government entities, NGOs, universities, and international organisations. This collaborative approach ensures effective operations with all stakeholders working towards advancing sustainable development education and ecosystem restoration.

EAD will establish a Steering Committee as part of its role within this network. This committee will guide strategic direction and oversee operations across various entities involved. Additionally, an advisory committee will be formed comprising experts in ecosystem restoration and sustainable education to provide specialised insights.

Nurturing Future Leaders

The naha platform plays a crucial role in accelerating sustainability efforts locally and globally while nurturing young leaders equipped to drive meaningful change. The platform builds on the success of events like the 12th World Environmental Education Congress held in early 2024 in Abu Dhabi.

This acknowledgment by UNU also supports Abu Dhabi's commitment to the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration Action Plan Challenge 6.3. It called for establishing an RCE in Abu Dhabi as part of its roadmap for Education for Sustainable Development.

Through these efforts, EAD aims to safeguard the environment while improving life quality for present and future generations. Their initiatives are designed not only to protect natural resources but also to inspire new leaders who can champion sustainability causes effectively.

With inputs from WAM