The Role of Mangroves in Overcoming Climate Change: Lessons from the United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the mangrove ecosystem is not just part of natural beauty, but is the foundation for responding to the challenges of climate change. Mangrove planting initiatives in the UAE, especially those driven by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), not only reflect a commitment to sustainability, but also feature technological innovations that speed up the process
As a nature-based solution, mangroves are not only a shelter for marine life, but also an irreplaceable carbon store. With five times more carbon absorption and storage than land forests, it is a solution in dealing with climate change.
The UAE has embraced the mangrove ecosystem as an integral part of its heritage, with an ambitious target of planting 100 million mangroves by 2030. ADNOC, is the main driving force behind this initiative.
The UAE is taking concrete steps by collaborating with the Environmental Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). This collaboration is a model for public and private sector collaboration to achieve environmental goals.
One interesting aspect of the ADNOC initiative is the use of drone technology in planting mangroves. In 2023, 2.5 million mangroves will be planted from the air. This innovative step not only speeds up the process, but also brings a technological dimension to the realm of environmental conservation.
Drone technology paves the way for high efficiency, accuracy and speed in mangrove conservation efforts.
Beyond carbon sequestration, mangroves also play an important role in maintaining coastal resilience and preventing coastal erosion. The health of mangrove ecosystems plays a central role in supporting the tourism and marine sectors, providing invaluable economic benefits. Therefore, this initiative not only creates environmental sustainability but also stimulates local economic growth.
The mangrove ecosystem in the UAE is home to various species of flora and fauna. Starting from the Gray Mangrove (Avicennia marina), Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), Western Coral Stork (Egretta gularis), to the River Kingfisher (Todiramphus chloris kalbaensis).
Apart from that, there are also species of Monkey Crab (Metopograpsus messor), Spotted Eagle (Clanga clanga), Spotted Grouper (Epinephelus coeruleopunctatus), Hooded Oyster Clam (Saccostrea cucullata) and Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas).
The UAE’s mangrove planting initiative is not just about protecting the local environment, but also provides valuable lessons for other countries. The use of modern technology and strategic partnerships between governments and private companies is paving the way for nature-based solutions that can be implemented throughout the world.
Source : Bappenas
