UAE Ministry Of Climate Change Launches Our Green Emirates Initiative To Promote Planting And Sustainability

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has introduced the 'Our Green Emirates' initiative, part of the 'Plant the Emirates' National Programme. This initiative aims to inspire individuals, families, government bodies, and private sectors to engage in planting activities across the UAE. The programme encourages collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance green spaces and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

‘Our Green Emirates’ kicked off with ‘Planting Week,’ an annual event designed to increase awareness about the importance of planting. This initiative seeks to preserve and expand green areas while encouraging community participation in greening efforts throughout the UAE. The week began with events in Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, focusing on sustainable agriculture.

In Fujairah, school students partnered with the Fujairah Environment Authority to plant local tree species at the UAE Flag yard area. They learned essential planting and care techniques during this event. Asilah Al Mualla from the Fujairah Environment Authority and Alia Abdul Rahim Al Harmoudi from MOCCAE attended this event, highlighting its significance.

A new park was inaugurated in Wadi Isfani, Ras Al Khaimah, through collaboration with the Public Services Department and Emirates Red Crescent. Local residents and students participated in this event, which was attended by Eng. Khalid Fadel Al Ali from Ras Al Khaimah's Public Services Department and Alia Abdul Rahim Al Harmoudi from MOCCAE.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, stated: "‘Our Green Emirates’ initiative encourages everyone in the UAE to embrace planting as a lifestyle, and to actively contribute to increasing our green spaces and fostering a deeper connection with nature throughout the nation." She emphasised that ‘Planting Week’ honours Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s legacy by promoting local agriculture.

She further added: "’Planting Week’ reinforces the UAE's commitment to the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme. By encouraging community involvement in sustainable agriculture practices and adopting modern technologies, we aim to build a resilient agricultural sector that meets local food needs." The focus is on using advanced technologies and innovative methods for effective planting.

Expanding Green Spaces Across UAE

The 'Planting Week' initiative has been running for over 40 years, engaging people of all ages in agricultural activities. It highlights municipalities' roles in promoting agricultural values and underscores green spaces' importance for climate sustainability. Events are planned across various emirates to involve communities in planting local tree seedlings.

Future events will continue involving community members in planting activities while providing training on tree care techniques. These efforts aim to foster a culture of sustainability by instilling agricultural values among participants of all ages throughout the UAE.

The 'Our Green Emirates' initiative aligns with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision for supporting agricultural development goals. It seeks to enhance national food security sustainably while expanding partnerships with private sectors for broader green space development across the nation.

With inputs from WAM