NCW Partners With UK Oceanography Center To Advance Marine Biodiversity Initiatives

The National Center for Wildlife (NCW) has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the UK's National Oceanography Center (NOC). This agreement aims to create a regulatory framework for collaboration on marine biodiversity projects, monitoring marine protected areas, and exchanging scientific visits. The focus is on knowledge sharing and enhancing biodiversity through joint efforts.

Under this agreement, both organisations will work together on marine biodiversity initiatives and the sustainability of marine ecosystems. Their cooperation will involve monitoring the health and population levels of various species such as sharks, whales, dolphins, turtles, dugongs, mangroves, and seagrass. Additionally, they will study benthic organisms and the effects of human activities on marine ecosystems.

The memorandum includes using advanced technologies to track human activities impacting marine life. By doing so, they aim to mitigate potential harm to marine and coastal wildlife. This involves implementing best management practices for protected marine areas and organising training workshops focused on conservation and habitat protection.

Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of NCW, highlighted that this partnership with NOC is significant for managing protected marine areas and biodiversity projects. He stated that the agreement aligns with NCW's goals of protecting wildlife and conserving ecosystems while restoring ecological balance.

Qurban emphasised the importance of international cooperation in enhancing wildlife conservation. He noted that leveraging global expertise and best practices is crucial for achieving NCW's strategic vision of thriving wildlife and sustainable ecosystems. This vision supports Saudi Vision 2030, the National Environment Strategy, and the Saudi Green Initiative.

Since its inception in 2019, NCW has focused on preserving wildlife and biodiversity through comprehensive programs aimed at environmental sustainability. These efforts include improving environmental performance, promoting sustainable management approaches, and maximising conservation impacts both ecologically and socially.

NOC's Role in Marine Science

The NOC is a leading research institution in marine science based in Southampton and Liverpool. It is the UK's largest organisation dedicated to sea-level science and developing coastal and deep-sea technologies. Their expertise will be instrumental in supporting the objectives outlined in the memorandum with NCW.

Research and innovation are key priorities for NCW as it seeks to enhance wildlife conservation efforts by drawing on national and international expertise. The collaboration with NOC represents a step forward in achieving these goals while reinforcing Saudi Arabia's leadership in environmental development globally.

With inputs from SPA