In a significant step toward environmental conservation, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), in collaboration with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Emirates Nature – WWF, has launched the Mangrove Restoration Guidelines for the UAE. This initiative is designed to support the country’s ongoing efforts to conserve, protect, sustain, and restore its vital mangrove ecosystems. The guidelines serve as a comprehensive tool for government bodies, NGOs, businesses, and local communities looking to engage in meaningful mangrove rehabilitation efforts.
The Importance of Mangroves in the UAE
Mangroves are crucial to the UAE’s environment, providing habitats for a variety of marine and terrestrial species, supporting biodiversity, and playing a critical role in protecting coastlines from erosion and storm surges. These natural barriers help to shield coastal areas from damage while playing a pivotal role in carbon sequestration, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation. Additionally, mangroves improve water quality by filtering pollutants and are economically beneficial, supporting fisheries and eco-tourism. They also hold deep cultural significance, symbolising resilience and heritage for many in the UAE. Preserving these ecosystems is vital for ensuring a sustainable future in the country.
Empowering Stakeholders for Restoration
The Mangrove Restoration Guidelines act as a practical resource for diverse stakeholders, offering detailed recommendations for effective restoration efforts. These guidelines foster collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and create a unified approach to sustaining the UAE’s mangrove ecosystems.
Key Features of the Guidelines:
- Best Practices: Clear strategies for successful mangrove restoration, ensuring projects are environmentally sound and aligned with national regulations.
- Community Engagement: The guidelines stress the importance of local participation, encouraging communities to take part in restoration efforts and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.
- Monitoring and Assessment: The document provides frameworks for tracking the health of restored mangrove areas, allowing for the evaluation of success and continuous improvement of restoration practices.
- Collaboration Framework: By promoting partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, the guidelines aim to strengthen joint efforts for mangrove conservation.
A Milestone in Environmental Stewardship
As part of the broader Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative, the launch of these guidelines aligns with national and global sustainability goals. With the UAE committed to planting 100 million mangroves by 2030, the guidelines will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of restoration projects and the protection of these ecosystems.
Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, emphasized that this initiative honors the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who began the UAE’s first mangrove restoration project in 1966. She highlighted how these guidelines consolidate decades of knowledge and expertise, ensuring that restoration efforts adhere to the highest standards, both locally and globally.
Furthermore, this initiative supports the international Mangrove Breakthrough movement, a joint effort aimed at restoring 15 million hectares of mangroves worldwide by 2030.
The launch of the Mangrove Restoration Guidelines in the UAE marks a pivotal moment in the country’s environmental journey. Individuals and organisations are encouraged to get involved in mangrove restoration efforts, helping to preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations. This initiative not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the UAE’s long-term sustainability and climate goals.
Let’s take action today and join us in restoring the UAE’s mangroves. Get it touch to get involved!
For more information – https://www.ead.gov.ae/en/Media-Centre/News/MANGROVE-INITIATIVE-GUIDELINES