Dubai launches conservation centre to focus on fungi
The world's first conservation centre dedicated to fungi has been launched in Dubai, to plug one of the biggest gaps in global biodiversity protection.
The Centre for Species Survival – Fungi, unveiled on Tuesday at Terra, Expo City Dubai, aims to boost international efforts to assess and protect fungi species, most of which remain undocumented despite their critical role in the ecosystem.
Fungi regulate greenhouse gases, support plant health, break down pollutants and offer potential breakthroughs in food, medicine and materials. They represent more than 90 per cent of the world's unidentified biodiversity, but are often overlooked in environmental frameworks and funding.
Established in partnership with the International Union for Conservation (IUCN), the centre will produce assessments for a global fungi-focused Red List.
'There are currently 1,300 fungi on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, so there is a lot to do to document and understand their threats to guide policy and action,' said Prof Jon Paul Rodríguez, chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission. 'As a group, the number of species that they encompass is mind-boggling, certainly reaching into the millions.'
Tracking local and global fungi
The Dubai IUCN Species Centre – the first in the Middle East – will initially focus on fungi native to the region before expanding its scope globally. It will be staffed by local experts in collaboration with IUCN's Fungi Conservation Committee and a global network of more than 11,000 scientists.
'It is imperative that we leave no stone unturned as we tackle the interconnected crises of climate change and biodiversity loss,' said Marjan Faraidooni, head of education and culture at Expo City Dubai.
'Out of the potential two to three million species of fungi that are out there, we haven't even touched the tip of the iceberg. We probably have an understanding and definition for 160,000, if we're lucky.'
Scientists estimate there could be around 10,000 fungal species beneath the Middle East's deserts and coastal areas, yet fewer than one per cent have been studied or assessed.
Global Fungi Facts
• Scientists estimate there could be as many as 3 million fungal species globally
• Only about 160,000 have been officially described leaving around 90% undiscovered
• Fungi account for roughly 90% of Earth's unknown biodiversity
• Forest fungi help tackle climate change, absorbing up to 36% of global fossil fuel emissions annually and storing around 5 billion tonnes of carbon in the planet's topsoil
Ms Faraidooni told The National that there will be a heavy emphasis on public engagement, with the possibility of a global annual fungi conference led by the centre.
'Part of our mission is to create different types of programmes that are not only centred on exhibitions, but also education, engagement and participating in global events where [they focus] on biodiversity.' said Ms Faraidooni.
Prof Rodríguez told The National that a key mission would be to help the public understand how to identify species of mushrooms. 'One great thing that that Expo City Dubai and the centre could do is create a guide for fungal citizen science, because there are particular traits that help with fungi identification.'
The UAE will host the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi in October, where the Centre for Species Survival is expected to feature as an example of regional leadership in nature-based solutions.
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Khaleej Times
10 hours ago
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Dubai opens world's first fungi conservation centre in 'global step forward'
Dubai has opened the world's first conservation centre dedicated exclusively to fungi. This initiative, a significant step for global biodiversity, was established in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The new Centre for Species Survival officially opened on Tuesday at Terra in Expo City Dubai, marking both a regional and global milestone. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai, explained the motivation behind the initiative. "There are many species survival centres around the world, but there hasn't been one in the Middle East. Because Terra is committed to conservation and research, and we realised nobody was focusing on fungi, we wanted to set up the centre with the IUCN," she said. "This is a global step forward that aligns with the UAE's environmental values and its commitment to biodiversity. Through this centre, we're raising awareness about ecosystems and their role in addressing global issues like climate change and biodiversity loss," she added. "We're very proud to be the first in the Emirates because we believe in the mission and the impact it can bring." Faraidooni emphasised that fungi are not only adaptable but essential to life across varied environments, including the UAE's deserts. "The beautiful thing about fungi is that they grow in places you can't imagine. They're resilient, and they thrive when the environment is right—whether in the Amazon or beneath our desert sands. We used to harvest truffles here, known locally as 'Fagaa,' which were used for both food and medicine. That tells us fungi have always been a part of our heritage," she said. The centre will initially focus on fungi native to the region, launching Red List assessments to evaluate extinction risk. "There are currently 1,300 fungi on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, so there is a lot to do to document and understand their threats to guide policy and action," Faraidooni added. What is mycelium? During the launch, experts from IUCN and the broader mycology community emphasised the pivotal role of fungi in ecological systems. Although often overlooked in conservation efforts, fungi play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, soil formation, and plant health. Underground fungal networks, known as mycelium, help trees communicate, share nutrients, and protect ecosystems from invasive species, acting as silent engineers of the natural world. Beyond ecology, speakers at the event highlighted the innovative potential of fungi in sustainability and design. Mycelium-based construction materials are being developed as biodegradable, modular building components. Mycelium-based construction materials have been utilised in a project that created a fully circular pavilion. This pavilion, made from locally sourced mycelium, was designed to be dismantled and reused for coral reef restoration. Another concept involved modular refugee shelters made from agricultural waste—these structures are low-cost, easy to assemble, and environmentally friendly. Events to foster awareness In the UAE context, fungi such as truffles and other desert fungi species are part of both ecological and cultural landscapes. Traditionally foraged after desert rains, these species have been used in medicine and are emblematic of the deep relationship between people and their environment. The centre also aims to engage local communities through education and cultural programming, with a focus on ethno-mycology—studying how people have historically interacted with fungi. Upcoming public exhibitions, school partnerships, and citizen science walks are planned to foster greater awareness. The centre is not just for scientists, it's for chefs, farmers, artists, teachers, and families. People are invited to step into Terra's "Under the Forest" exhibit for interactive experiences that showcase the impact of fungi on the ecosystem.
The National
11 hours ago
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The world's first conservation centre dedicated to fungi has been launched in Dubai, to plug one of the biggest gaps in global biodiversity protection. The Centre for Species Survival – Fungi, unveiled on Tuesday at Terra, Expo City Dubai, aims to boost international efforts to assess and protect fungi species, most of which remain undocumented despite their critical role in the ecosystem. Fungi regulate greenhouse gases, support plant health, break down pollutants and offer potential breakthroughs in food, medicine and materials. They represent more than 90 per cent of the world's unidentified biodiversity, but are often overlooked in environmental frameworks and funding. Established in partnership with the International Union for Conservation (IUCN), the centre will produce assessments for a global fungi-focused Red List. 'There are currently 1,300 fungi on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, so there is a lot to do to document and understand their threats to guide policy and action,' said Prof Jon Paul Rodríguez, chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission. 'As a group, the number of species that they encompass is mind-boggling, certainly reaching into the millions.' Tracking local and global fungi The Dubai IUCN Species Centre – the first in the Middle East – will initially focus on fungi native to the region before expanding its scope globally. It will be staffed by local experts in collaboration with IUCN's Fungi Conservation Committee and a global network of more than 11,000 scientists. 'It is imperative that we leave no stone unturned as we tackle the interconnected crises of climate change and biodiversity loss,' said Marjan Faraidooni, head of education and culture at Expo City Dubai. 'Out of the potential two to three million species of fungi that are out there, we haven't even touched the tip of the iceberg. We probably have an understanding and definition for 160,000, if we're lucky.' Scientists estimate there could be around 10,000 fungal species beneath the Middle East's deserts and coastal areas, yet fewer than one per cent have been studied or assessed. Global Fungi Facts • Scientists estimate there could be as many as 3 million fungal species globally • Only about 160,000 have been officially described leaving around 90% undiscovered • Fungi account for roughly 90% of Earth's unknown biodiversity • Forest fungi help tackle climate change, absorbing up to 36% of global fossil fuel emissions annually and storing around 5 billion tonnes of carbon in the planet's topsoil Ms Faraidooni told The National that there will be a heavy emphasis on public engagement, with the possibility of a global annual fungi conference led by the centre. 'Part of our mission is to create different types of programmes that are not only centred on exhibitions, but also education, engagement and participating in global events where [they focus] on biodiversity.' said Ms Faraidooni. Prof Rodríguez told The National that a key mission would be to help the public understand how to identify species of mushrooms. 'One great thing that that Expo City Dubai and the centre could do is create a guide for fungal citizen science, because there are particular traits that help with fungi identification.' The UAE will host the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi in October, where the Centre for Species Survival is expected to feature as an example of regional leadership in nature-based solutions.
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The Centre for Species Survival Fungi (CSS Fungi) – based at and staffed by experts from Terra, Expo City Dubai – is testament to the UAE's commitment to sustainability and biodiversity, with Expo City Dubai serving as a hub for collaboration on environmental solutions and Terra driving awareness, innovation and action. The CSS Fungi will work closely with the IUNC SSC Fungi Conservation Committee and the fungi specialist groups that are part of the largest network of volunteer experts in the world, with more than 11,000 members in 186 territories. Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture, Expo City Dubai, said: 'It is imperative that we leave no stone unturned as we tackle the interconnected crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. The UAE has always pushed the boundaries of innovation, and the new Centre for Species Survival demonstrates our commitment to fulfilling the UAE leadership's vision for Expo City Dubai: a hub to launch initiatives focused on preserving and sustaining our planet. 'We are proud that Terra – the heart of Expo City's sustainability legacy – will house and drive this pioneering initiative in partnership with the IUCN SCC, powering global exploration into this great scientific frontier as we continue to test and scale nature-first ideas with global impact.' The centre will be the first IUCN Centre for Species Survival in the Middle East and will initially focus on fungi from the region. Its priority is to launch assessments for a global fungi-focused Red List – IUCN's comprehensive, scientific evaluation of the extinction risk of species and a credible source and catalyst for safeguarding and mitigation efforts. Rarely included in environmental frameworks, fungi represent more than 90 per cent of the world's unknown biodiversity, supporting nearly all plant life, regulating greenhouse gases, repairing polluted environments and offering breakthrough innovations in climate solutions, food systems, medicine, agriculture and architecture, as well as in fashion and design. Professor Jon Paul Rodríguez, Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission, said: 'Fungi span from the smallest (a chytrid fungus) to the largest (humongous fungus, Armillaria ostoyae) organisms studied by the network of experts of the IUCN Species Survival Commission. As a group, the number of species that they encompass is mind boggling, certainly reaching into the millions. 'There are currently 1,300 fungi on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, so there is a lot to do to document and understand their threats to guide policy and action. I am delighted by the creation of the Centre for Species Survival for Fungi at Terra, Expo City Dubai, and look forward to the transformative conservation impact that it will bring.' To mark this milestone, Terra hosted an official launch event, open to media, on Tuesday 24 June, bringing together mycologists, conservation organisations, F&B and wellness providers, academic institutions and government representatives to highlight the array of fungi's unexplored applications and their potential benefits to people and planet. Designed as a blueprint for sustainable urban living, Expo City Dubai advances a vision for a better future – one that lives in harmony with nature, engages the public on pressing social and environmental issues and serves as a hub for collaboration around global sustainability. Its strategic location, with direct access to the MENA and North Africa region, makes it the ideal base for the latest Centre for Species Survival (CSS). Terra brings the city's commitment to sustainability to life, acting as a catalyst for change across the UAE, the region and beyond. Designed as a net zero energy and water building, it offers a transformative experience that highlights fungi's vital ecological role, empowering visitors to make more sustainable choices. As the heart of Expo City's sustainability education, Terra sparks curiosity among students through immersive, beyond-the-classroom learning, and is also home to the Jane Goodall Roots & Shoots youth education initiative. The IUCN SSC Centres for Species Survival are hosted by leading zoological and conservation organisations actively focused on species conservation efforts. The centres work closely with relevant SSC groups in catalysing priority efforts for 'assess-plan-act' at various geographic scales or taxonomic or thematic focuses. IUCN will hold its prestigious World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi this October, bringing together global leaders, scientists and policymakers to drive nature-based solutions and sustainable development, and demonstrating the UAE's dedication to international environmental collaboration and leadership. For media enquiries, please contact About Expo City Dubai Expo City Dubai, the legacy city of Expo 2020 Dubai, is an innovation-driven, people-centric community rooted in the belief that collaboration can propel sustainable progress. Its prime location and world-class connectivity place it at the centre of Dubai's future – the lynchpin between Dubai Exhibition Centre, Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port and a key driver of Dubai's Economic Agenda (D33) A world-class free zone, it is home to a thriving business community that supports cross-sector collaboration and provides a springboard for businesses of all sizes to scale and grow, enhancing Dubai's position as a global centre of trade and reinforcing the UAE's development and diversification ambitions Its residential communities redefine urban living, exemplifying best practice in innovative, environment-friendly design with a focus on wellbeing and happiness An incubator for innovation, it is a testbed for solutions and a platform for groundbreaking ideas that benefit both people and the planet Packed with educational, cultural and entertainment offerings, with more than 30 indoor and outdoor venues attracting globally significant events, it celebrates human creativity and ingenuity and inspires future generations Designed as a blueprint for sustainable urban living and one of five hubs on the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, its roadmap to achieving net zero by 2050 and its broader decarbonisation targets raise the bar on responsible urban development About the IUCN Species Survival Commission With over 11,000 members in 186 territories, the Species Survival Commission (SSC) is the largest of the seven expert commissions of IUCN and enables it to influence, encourage and assist societies to conserve biodiversity by building knowledge on the status and threats to species, providing advice, developing policies and guidelines, facilitating conservation planning, and catalysing conservation action. The IUCN SSC has been recognised as 'the world's largest volunteer conservation-science network' by Guinness World Records®. Learn more at About Terra Terra – The World's Living Wonder – is the beating heart of Expo City Dubai's sustainability vision, and a regional catalyst for climate solutions, biodiversity intelligence, and systems innovation. Beyond its immersive architecture and educational outreach, Terra acts as a consulting platform to co-develop scalable, science-backed strategies that drive climate resilience, nature-based solutions, and data-informed development.
