Latest news with #MinisterOfClimateChange
Times of Oman
2 days ago
- General
- Times of Oman
UAE committed to protecting oceans, advancing their sustainability: Amna Al Dhahak
Abu Dhabi: Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE's Minister of Climate Change and Environment, affirmed the UAE's ongoing commitment to protecting ocean ecosystems and enhancing their sustainability as a vital resource at both the national and global levels. On World Oceans Day, Al Dahak said, "Covering more than 70 per cent of the Earth's surface, our oceans are undeniably essential to human lives and livelihoods. They are the lifeblood of our planet, regulating our climate, providing sustenance, and supporting countless ecosystems. We recognise, however, that our oceans face unprecedented challenges. From the impacts of climate change, evidenced by coral bleaching and rising sea levels, to the pressures of unsustainable fishing practices, the health of our oceans is at risk." She added, "As a nation deeply connected to the sea, we understand the urgency of these challenges and are committed to leading the way in finding solutions. We recognise the responsibility we have to safeguard these resources for future generations, and we are actively implementing strategies to mitigate these threats and restore the health of our marine ecosystems." She continued, "This year, World Oceans Day is being celebrated under the theme 'Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us", a theme that resonates deeply with the UAE's vision for a sustainable future. It reminds us of the awe-inspiring beauty and immense value of the sea and underscores the urgent need to protect it from the threats of pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Our efforts in mangrove preservation and coral rehabilitation have been highly successful. Work is underway on our coral rehabilitation project to outplant more than four million coral colonies in the emirate's waters by 2030. We are also working to achieve our 100 million mangrove plantation target by 2030. These are goals that we must all work together to achieve." Al Dahak highlighted the UAE's international cooperation in ocean protection, saying, "Our commitment extends beyond our national waters. The UAE is proud to be the first nation in the Middle East to join the '100 per cent Alliance,' a UN initiative by the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, calling on coastal states to commit to sustainable management of all ocean areas under their jurisdiction." "On this World Oceans Day, I urge each of you to become an ocean advocate. Learn about sustainable seafood choices. Reduce your plastic consumption. Support organisations dedicated to ocean conservation. Instil in your children a love of the oceans and teach them about the wonders of our seas. Every action, no matter how small, makes a difference. Let's work together to restore the vibrancy of our oceans. Let's ensure that the 'Wonder' of the ocean endures," the minister concluded.
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Science
- Zawya
UAE deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity: Minister of Climate Change and Environment
DUBAI - Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to preserving our natural ecosystems and safeguarding life on land and in water. In a statement on the International Day for Biological Diversity, marked annually on 22nd May, Dr. Al Dahak said that this year's theme, 'From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity,' perfectly captures the urgency of the UAE's mission, noting that the 'General Framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031' reflects this understanding. She added, 'We recognise that protecting biodiversity and championing nature-based solutions are not simply environmental add-ons; they are the essential foundation upon which all our efforts to combat climate change and achieve lasting sustainability must be built.' Dr. Al Dahak emphasised that the UAE is deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity, embracing it as a cornerstone of its sustainability efforts, reflected in the designation of 49 protected areas, encompassing over 15 percent of the nation's territory, which preserves its desert, mountains, and the marine environment, providing critical habitats for endangered species. 'Our success in bringing the majestic Arabian Oryx back from the brink of extinction stands as a testament to our dedication to wildlife conservation. Furthermore, we are leveraging technology to enhance our conservation strategies, from using drones to combat desertification to pioneering research in marine life preservation," she further said. Beyond our borders, Dr. Al Dahak stated, the UAE champions international collaboration, exemplified by its partnership with Indonesia to launch the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC). 'As part of this alliance, we are also investing in cutting-edge research, as demonstrated by the groundbreaking of the Mohamed bin Zayed-Joko Widodo International Mangrove Research Centre on the island of Bali, in collaboration with the Republic of Indonesia.' 'Here in the UAE, we are actively engaging stakeholders across multiple sectors to boost our local agriculture and safeguard the country's rich biodiversity,' the minister explained, adding that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, taking place from 28th to 31st May, offers an opportunity to turn goals into tangible actions. 'In addition to our focus on supporting farmers and increasing the local production of strategic crops, we will place special emphasis on the development of our livestock and fisheries, key pillars in strengthening both biodiversity and sustainable food security,' she added. 'I invite you to join us at this important event to explore innovative strategies that ensure a better future for both nature and humanity. Let us build a lasting legacy that future generations will be proud to carry forward,' Dr. Al Dahak concluded.
