Mangrove forests and coral gardens become part of UAE’s drive against climate change

Tens of thousands of mangroves will be planted and coral gardens cultivated around the UAE to reduce the effects of climate change.

About 30,000 mangroves will be planted to develop the marine areas, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said yesterday. The mangroves will help prevent erosion in coastal areas and the corals will serve as an incubator for marine species as part of the ministry’s objectives for the Year of Zayed.

“Mangrove trees play an effective role in reducing carbon emissions and contribute to minimising the impacts of marine natural disasters,” said Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment.

“They are also incubators for many marine species, and help maintain the ecological balance, while protecting species from the risk of extinction, in addition to supporting and encouraging ecotourism.

“Coral gardens provide a natural habitat and an incubator for several marine species, and the ministry has succeeded in cultivating 24 species of corals.”

The ministry is also keen to work with partners to develop sustainable ecotourism.

The ministry will co-ordinate with local authorities in each emirate to determine the locations for the mangroves and coral as part of its 2017-2021 strategy.

“The Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment’s announcement of the two initiatives to expand the numbers of mangroves and coral gardens in the country stems from their environmental importance,” Dr Al Zeyoudi said.

Developing ecotourism was also part of the ministry’s plan since a sustainable model would reduce pressure on resources caused by regular tourism.

“We seek to focus on such efforts and highlight the most important areas that tourists can enjoy in the country,” Dr Al Zeyoudi said.