Hamdan bin Zayed issues Abu Dhabi biodiversity policy

Alignment with global environmental efforts

The decree coincides with the ongoing IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the emirate’s leading global role in environmental protection.

Implementation and oversight

The decree mandates that EAD, in coordination with relevant entities, will monitor and implement the policy’s instruments within a set timeframe. The agency will also oversee impact assessments through systematic procedures to ensure the policy’s objectives are met.

Goals of the biodiversity policy

The policy aims to sustain biodiversity by addressing key threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and unsustainable resource use. It focuses on protecting and restoring terrestrial and marine ecosystems vital for the survival of native species. Additionally, it seeks to strengthen legislative frameworks, apply nature-based solutions, and raise public awareness about biodiversity’s role in human health, community well-being, and sustainable resource management.

Collaborative development and national alignment

Developed in collaboration with government bodies, private sector institutions, and local communities, the policy is fully aligned with national biodiversity strategies. It considers current challenges and outlines protective measures for marine, coastal, and terrestrial ecosystems.

Statement from Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri

Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, emphasised the policy’s importance in achieving the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031 and Abu Dhabi’s Environmental Centennial 2071 goals. She highlighted biodiversity’s crucial role in food and water security, climate change mitigation, and quality of life, calling for integrated efforts to rehabilitate habitats, conserve endangered species, and expand scientific knowledge.

Abu Dhabi’s diverse ecosystems

Abu Dhabi hosts diverse ecosystems, including plains, sand dunes, coasts, islands, coral reefs, mangroves, and mountains, supporting unique terrestrial and marine species. These ecosystems face growing challenges that require sustainable interventions.

Future measures and technologies

The policy will implement measures to enhance ecosystem resilience, foster multi-sector partnerships, and utilise modern technologies to protect and restore Abu Dhabi’s rich biodiversity for a sustainable environmental future.