Abu Dhabi's Environment Agency Showcases International Best Practices in Conservation
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EAD highlights Abu Dhabi's international best practices in conservation
ABU DHABI - The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) participated with a delegation headed by the Secretary-General Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri in the 10th International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Regional Office for West Asia (ROWA) Regional Conservation Forum (RCF) which concluded yesterday in Riyadh. During its participation, the Agency's efforts in preserving and protecting biodiversity were highlighted, focusing on EAD's key ongoing projects, research, and achievements. This is in addition to accomplishments made in biodiversity conservation using modern and advanced technology to preserve blue carbon ecosystems and assess the health of the vegetation cover. EAD's projects in monitoring and restoring Abu Dhabi's marine biodiversity and preserving and rehabilitating plant resources in Abu Dhabi were also highlighted, in addition to restoring endangered wildlife in the Arabia to Africa project and using drones for mangrove restoration. As Regional Councillor for West Asia at IUCN, Dr. Shaikha participated in her first panel discussion, 'IUCN Programme 2026-2029'. She highlighted that the IUCN protected area classification as one of the key inputs in the establishment of the Zayed Network of Protected Areas in Abu Dhabi. During her second session: 'Mainstreaming of Nature-based Solution in Policies and Strategies in the Mena Region and Implementation Opportunities', she emphasised the importance of a UAE-based project known as 'Nature-based Solutions (NBs) for Climate, Biodiversity and People' which focuses on the management and restoration of blue carbon sinks such as mangroves, corals and seagrasses. She also discussed other projects, such as Abu Dhabi's coral restoration programme, which was launched in 2021 under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of EAD. She also showcased the first sea cages aquaculture project in the emirate of Abu Dhabi which was launched this year. The project also includes an advanced monitoring and data collection system, utilising artificial intelligence - which makes it the first of its kind in the Middle East. In a third session: 'Science for Conservation' Dr. Salim Javid, Division Director, Terrestrial Biodiversity in the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity sector of EAD, spoke about science for conservation in West Asia. He highlighted how the UAE and Abu Dhabi use IUCN standards to develop and shape local conservation priorities.
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EAD highlights Abu Dhabi's international best practices in conservation
During its participation, the Agency's efforts in preserving and protecting biodiversity were highlighted, focusing on EAD's key ongoing projects, research, and achievements. This is in addition to accomplishments made in biodiversity conservation using modern and advanced technology to preserve blue carbon ecosystems and assess the health of the vegetation cover. EAD's projects in monitoring and restoring Abu Dhabi's marine biodiversity and preserving and rehabilitating plant resources in Abu Dhabi were also highlighted, in addition to restoring endangered wildlife in the Arabia to Africa project and using drones for mangrove restoration. As Regional Councillor for West Asia at IUCN, Shaikha participated in her first panel discussion, 'IUCN Programme 2026-2029'. She highlighted that the IUCN protected area classification as one of the key inputs in the establishment of the Zayed Network of Protected Areas in Abu Dhabi. During her second session: 'Mainstreaming of Nature-based Solution in Policies and Strategies in the Mena Region and Implementation Opportunities', she emphasised the importance of a UAE-based project known as 'Nature-based Solutions (NBs) for Climate, Biodiversity and People' which focuses on the management and restoration of blue carbon sinks such as mangroves, corals and seagrasses. She also discussed other projects, such as Abu Dhabi's coral restoration programme, which was launched in 2021 under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of EAD. She also showcased the first sea cages aquaculture project in the emirate of Abu Dhabi which was launched this year. The project also includes an advanced monitoring and data collection system, utilising artificial intelligence - which makes it the first of its kind in the Middle East. In a third session: 'Science for Conservation' Salim Javid, Division Director, Terrestrial Biodiversity in the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity sector of EAD, spoke about science for conservation in West Asia. He highlighted how the UAE and Abu Dhabi use IUCN standards to develop and shape local conservation priorities. (ANI/WAM)
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The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) highlights the emirate's conservation efforts at the IUCN Leaders Forum. The agency emphasizes its successful programs in protecting endangered species and preserving biodiversity.
Abu Dhabi's Environmental Leadership on Global Stage
The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) has taken center stage at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Leaders Forum, showcasing Abu Dhabi's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices. The forum, held in Abu Dhabi, provided a platform for the EAD to highlight its innovative approaches and successful initiatives in preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species
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.Spotlight on Conservation Achievements
During the forum, the EAD presented several key conservation projects that have garnered international recognition. One of the most notable achievements is the successful reintroduction of the Scimitar-horned Oryx to its natural habitat in Chad. This initiative, part of Abu Dhabi's efforts to protect endangered species, has seen the Oryx population grow from extinction in the wild to over 600 individuals
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.Marine Conservation Efforts
The agency also highlighted its marine conservation programs, particularly the preservation and cultivation of mangrove forests. Abu Dhabi's ambitious plan to plant 100 million mangroves by 2030 underscores its commitment to combating climate change and protecting coastal ecosystems. This initiative not only aids in carbon sequestration but also provides crucial habitats for various marine species
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.Technological Innovation in Conservation
EAD's use of advanced technology in conservation efforts was another focal point at the forum. The agency has implemented cutting-edge solutions such as satellite tracking, drone monitoring, and artificial intelligence to enhance its wildlife management and habitat protection strategies. These technological applications have significantly improved the efficiency and effectiveness of Abu Dhabi's conservation programs
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Collaborative Approach to Environmental Protection
The forum also emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing global environmental challenges. EAD's partnerships with international organizations, research institutions, and other government entities were highlighted as key factors in the success of its conservation initiatives. These collaborations have facilitated knowledge exchange and the implementation of best practices in environmental management
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.Future Outlook and Commitments
Looking ahead, the EAD reaffirmed Abu Dhabi's commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation. The agency outlined its plans for expanding protected areas, both terrestrial and marine, to safeguard critical habitats and species. Additionally, EAD emphasized its ongoing efforts to integrate conservation with sustainable development, ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of the environment
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