Abu Dhabi’s EAD Demonstrates Global Best Practices In Conservation

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) took part in the 10th International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Regional Office for West Asia (ROWA) Regional Conservation Forum (RCF) in Riyadh. The delegation was led by Secretary-General Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri. The forum concluded yesterday.

During the event, EAD showcased its ongoing projects and research aimed at preserving biodiversity. They highlighted their achievements in using advanced technology to conserve blue carbon ecosystems and assess vegetation health. These efforts are crucial for maintaining ecological balance.

Dr. Shaikha participated in her first panel discussion as Regional Councillor for West Asia at IUCN, titled 'IUCN Programme 2026-2029’. She emphasised the role of IUCN protected area classification in establishing the Zayed Network of Protected Areas in Abu Dhabi.

In another session, 'Mainstreaming of Nature-based Solution in Policies and Strategies in the Mena Region and Implementation Opportunities’, Dr. Shaikha discussed a UAE project called 'Nature-based Solutions (NBs) for Climate, Biodiversity and People’. This project focuses on managing and restoring blue carbon sinks like mangroves, corals, and seagrasses.

EAD’s initiatives also include monitoring and restoring marine biodiversity in Abu Dhabi. They are working on preserving plant resources and rehabilitating endangered wildlife through the Arabia to Africa project. Additionally, drones are being used for mangrove restoration.

Innovative Projects

Dr. Shaikha also highlighted Abu Dhabi’s coral restoration programme, launched in 2021 under H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan's directives. This initiative aims to restore coral reefs, which are vital to marine life.

The first sea cages aquaculture project in Abu Dhabi was introduced this year. It features an advanced monitoring system that uses artificial intelligence, making it unique in the Middle East.

Science for Conservation

In a session titled 'Science for Conservation’, Dr. Salim Javid, Division Director of Terrestrial Biodiversity at EAD, spoke about conservation science in West Asia. He explained how the UAE and Abu Dhabi use IUCN standards to shape local conservation priorities.

EAD’s participation underscored their commitment to biodiversity conservation through innovative projects and strategic collaborations. Their efforts aim to protect natural resources while promoting sustainable development.

With inputs from WAM