Abu Dhabi: Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Aldar, and Emirates Nature-WWF have joined forces to conduct marine habitat studies at Saadiyat Marine National Park. This collaboration aims to preserve the region's marine ecosystems.
According to Emirates News Agency, the partnership highlights a commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation, which was initiated when Aldar became part of the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative partnership programme in May 2024. By signing EAD's partnership pledge, Aldar has vowed to conserve coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass, and salt marshes.
The collaboration involves using innovative research methods, including environmental DNA surveys and remote underwater surveys, to study Saadiyat Marine National Park's nearshore areas. The park, a part of the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network since 2017, is a crucial marine habitat managed by the Agency, housing species like the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle.
This partnership aims to develop a biodiversity stewardship blueprint that Aldar can apply to its projects in Abu Dhabi. It also seeks to enhance environmental awareness in Saadiyat Island communities through events and citizen science activities.
Ahmed Al Hashmi of EAD emphasized the importance of such partnerships in preserving Abu Dhabi's marine biodiversity. Salwa Al Maflahi from Aldar stated the group's goal to protect Saadiyat Island's marine environment and promote sustainability. Laila Mostafa Abdullatif of Emirates Nature-WWF highlighted the initiative's focus on community engagement and awareness.
Abu Dhabi's ecosystems, including mangroves and coral reefs, are vital for marine species like dugongs and turtles. Saadiyat Marine National Park is crucial for conserving this biodiversity.