Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi Showcases Drone Technology For Mangrove Planting In Bahrain

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has demonstrated its latest drone-based mangrove planting technology. This initiative, part of the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative (ADMI), is in collaboration with Nabat, a climate tech company launched by VentureOne. The demonstration took place during a visit to Bahrain, showcasing EAD's commitment to regional cooperation and expertise exchange.

Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, highlighted their achievements. He stated: "With a proven track record of rehabilitating 17,600 hectares, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi is now strategically deploying its expertise and innovative drone planting technology, in partnership with Nabat, to amplify regional impact."

Nabat's technology uses AI-powered autonomous drones for planting mangroves. This method offers benefits like low environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. Developed by the Technology Innovation Institute, it ensures restoration efforts are data-driven and tailored to each habitat's needs.

Reda Nidhakou, Acting CEO at VentureOne, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. "It was an immense privilege for us to join the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi in conducting a live demo of Nabat’s cutting-edge mangrove seeding technology in Bahrain," he said. The partnership aims to make ecosystem restoration scalable and adaptable.

The delegation included Ahmed Al Hashemi from EAD and Shahab Issa Abu Shahab from the Advanced Technology Research Council. They were joined by experts who explained the innovative project to Bahrain’s Minister of Oil and Environment, Dr Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Daina.

EAD's efforts align with the UAE's goal to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030. This initiative supports the UAE-led Mangrove Alliance for Climate. By using advanced technology, EAD aims to mitigate climate change effects through nature-based solutions.

The agency is committed to maintaining Abu Dhabi’s leading role in ecosystem rehabilitation. Their collaboration with Nabat focuses on planting over 10 million trees using drones. Sharing this experience with Bahrain underscores their belief in knowledge exchange for environmental conservation.

EAD's strategic partnerships aim to position Abu Dhabi as a hub for environmental restoration excellence. Their work influences regional policies towards sustainability while ensuring a better future for coming generations through nature conservation projects.

With inputs from WAM