The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center and Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi Organize First Regional Seagrass Scientific Workshop
The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, the largest dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return center in the region, recently hosted the first Arabian Regional Scientific Seagrass Workshop, organized in partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) – Dugong-MOU Secretariat and in presence of professor Emma Jackson, President of the World Seagrass Association. The event brought together leading marine researchers and environmental experts from United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Oman to spotlight the vital role of seagrass habitats in our Arabian coastal ecosystems, sharing the current status of seagrass research and knowledge in the region and discussing the way forward to improve the conservation of seagrass. Seagrasses are marine flowering plants found in coastal areas worldwide, providing vital ecosystem services such as oxygen production, sediment stabilization, blue carbon sequestration, and essential habitat for numerous marine organisms, including migratory species like dugongs and sea turtles. For example, with nearly four percent of the world's seagrass, Abu Dhabi's shores are home to a large population of the vulnerable species of dugongs, commonly known as sea cows, relying almost exclusively on seagrass, with adults consuming up to 40 kg a day.Despite their importance, seagrass meadows have been declining globally at an alarming rate of 110 km2 per year since 1980 due to significant global and local threats (coastal development and marine heatwaves for example). This workshop highlighted the urgent need to address any knowledge gaps and promote scientific-based conservation strategies. It served as a platform for knowledge exchange, enabling regional scientists to share insights on the current state of seagrass research, identify critical research priorities and foster collaborations aimed at advancing conservation efforts across the region. It also strengthened sustainable research partnerships that support ongoing scientific dialogue and advance initiatives to preserve these vital ecosystems in the Arab world.Ahmed Al Hashmi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector from EAD said: "The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi commits to collaborate with local, regional and international partners to develop tools to protect our marine ecosystems, including the use of artificial intelligence and advanced monitoring technologies, to enhance our understanding and protection of seagrass meadows across the Arab region, given their importance in conserving biodiversity and sequestering carbon, thus enhancing the resilience of our coastal ecosystems. This regional workshop marks a significant step toward strengthening scientific collaboration and sharing expertise to ensure a sustainable future.'Dr. Elise Marquis, Director of the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, said, 'Seagrass meadows are not only vital for marine biodiversity, they also play a crucial role as blue carbon habitats. Through our dedicated seagrass research program, the Center is committed to advancing our understanding of seagrass ecosystems in the Arabian Gulf and the broader region. This workshop represents an important step toward initiating a dynamic, collaborative effort to enhance seagrass research. We are entering a new era of opportunities for seagrass conservation, and we are immensely proud to be actively instigating it.'CMS representatives highlighted the 2030 Seagrass Breakthrough Initiative, initiated at COP28, which aims to establish a global framework for seagrass conservation, which is a crucial habitat supporting migratory species such as dugongs and sea turtles. Ms. Rouba Abou-Atieh, Executive Coordinator of CMS Office – Abu Dhabi said, 'Seagrass ecosystems are vital for migratory species like dugongs and sea turtles, yet they remain under-researched and at risk. This workshop strengthens regional collaboration to bridge knowledge gaps and advance conservation. We hope this workshop will foster further collaboration within the Arabian region to advance the seagrass conservation agenda.'
By hosting this event, the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center reaffirmed its pivotal role in supporting marine conservation efforts and strengthening partnerships that contribute to impactful scientific research, enhancing the protection of marine biodiversity in the region and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Ammon
5 hours ago
- Ammon
EMRC: Radiation levels in Jordan within natural limits
Ammon News - The Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission (EMRC) has confirmed that radiation levels across the Kingdom remain within natural background limits, following a new round of nationwide assessments. The Commission emphasized that its environmental radiation monitoring network is operating continuously and efficiently around the clock. Ziad Al-Sa'aidah, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners at EMRC, stated in a press release on Monday that the national monitoring system comprises a network of fixed stations and mobile field laboratories operated by qualified technical teams and aligned with international standards and best practices. Recent monitoring and analysis, conducted since early Sunday using mobile laboratories and advanced radiation detection equipment at multiple sites, revealed no abnormal readings. Al-Sa'aidah noted that the results fall well within normal background radiation levels, confirming there is no risk to public safety and no need for additional action. These efforts are part of EMRC's comprehensive and precautionary daily monitoring plan. The Commission operates mobile radiation monitoring units that serve as a core component of Jordan's national radiological emergency response strategy, allowing for rapid and precise assessments in sensitive locations. Al-Sa'aidah also highlighted Jordan's leadership in regional monitoring efforts, noting that the country was among the first in the Arab world to integrate its fixed radiation stations into the International Atomic Energy Agency's global monitoring network (IRMIS). The system allows for real-time data sharing and analysis during emergencies, enhancing decision-making speed and accuracy. He emphasized that the Commission's work falls under a broader regulatory framework aimed at safeguarding public health and institutional continuity. "These efforts reflect our commitment to a proactive, transparent, and integrated national system for environmental radiation monitoring," Al-Sa'aidah said. He further stressed that EMRC is working in full coordination with the National Center for Security and Crisis Management and all relevant government bodies to maintain the highest levels of preparedness. "Our approach is aligned with Jordan's national strategy of proactive risk management to ensure the safety and protection of all citizens," he added. Petra
Al Bawaba
3 days ago
- Al Bawaba
Abu Dhabi University Faculty Member Secures German Patent for Breakthrough Sustainable Packaging
In a significant step toward sustainability and scientific innovation, Dr. Rahaf Ajaj, Chair of the Department of Environmental and Public Health at Abu Dhabi University's (ADU) College of Health Sciences, has been awarded a German utility model patent for her pioneering research into biodegradable polymeric films. This achievement underscores ADU's commitment to driving impactful research with real-world applications that benefit both the environment and student by the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA), the utility model titled "Composition of polymer films based on pectin containing a boswellic acid derivative for improved functionality' represents a breakthrough in active packaging materials. Developed in collaboration with an international team of scientists, the innovation combines pectin, a natural plant-based polymer, with a specially synthesized compound derived from boswellic acid, resulting in enhanced antioxidant activity and improved water new biodegradable film holds significant potential across several sectors. In the food industry, it has the potential to extend product shelf life by protecting against spoilage, while in healthcare, it introduces safer and more efficient drug delivery systems with wider biomedical applications. Engineered with an optimized formulation, the film delivers the ideal balance of durability and flexibility, paving the way for large-scale industrial Rahaf Ajaj, Chair of the Department of Environmental and Public Health at Abu Dhabi University, said: 'This patent reflects years of applied research aimed at replacing harmful plastics with sustainable alternatives. With the support of Abu Dhabi University, I am proud to see our work recognized on an international stage. By synthesizing a novel bioactive compound and integrating it into pectin-based films, we've created a material that delivers both environmental and functional value. This milestone reflects our mission to develop sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics and contribute to a circular economy. It also enhances opportunities for ADU students, who are involved in applied research that prepares them to be changemakers in environmental science, healthcare, and beyond.' This achievement reflects ADU's broader strategic vision to be a hub for global research collaboration and environmental innovation. By empowering faculty and students to co-create sustainable solutions, the university strengthens its contribution to the UAE's environmental goals and nurtures the next generation of scientific leaders.
Al Bawaba
04-06-2025
- Al Bawaba
Abu Dhabi University Signs MoU with Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology to Advance Innovation and Talent Development growth through scientific research
Reinforcing its commitment to advancing the UAE's national industrial strategy, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), marking a significant step toward deepening cooperation in the fields of industrial innovation, academic engagement, and national capacity building. The agreement outlines a framework for joint initiatives that foster industrial innovation, connect academia with industry, and empower national talent by aligning scientific research with market needs. It also includes the development of specialized training programs for students and startups in support of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology and the 'Make it in the Emirates' MoU was signed recently by His Excellency Osama Amir Fadhel, Assistant Undersecretary for the Industrial Accelerators Sector at MoIAT and Dr. Hamad Odhabi, Vice Chancellor of AI and Operational Excellence at Abu Dhabi University, on the sidelines of the fourth edition of the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum. The signing followed ADU's active participation in the event, where the university showcased a range of student-led innovations aligned with the UAE's strategic industrial priorities.H.E. Osama Amir Fadhel, Assistant Undersecretary for the Industrial Accelerators Sector at MoIAT, said: 'The Ministry, in collaboration with strategic partners, continues to boost the industrial sector's growth, competitiveness, and investment appeal. Academic institutions play a key role in building capacity and empowering national talent for sustainable industrial growth. Our partnership with ADU is a practical step to align research with industry needs, empower students, and deliver innovative solutions, strengthening the business environment and supporting a resilient, competitive, knowledge-based economy.'Commenting on the occasion, Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, said: 'This MoU reflects our shared commitment with MoIAT to empower today's students - who are the architects of tomorrow's robust economy - and to position academic institutions as key drivers of sustainable economic growth and global competitiveness. By aligning academia with national priorities, we are nurturing a new generation equipped with the skills, knowledge, and innovative mindset needed to lead sustainable growth on a global scale.'The partnership will drive various collaborative initiatives and projects to advance the UAE's industrial transformation. These efforts will promote innovation across priority sectors, facilitate knowledge exchange in advanced technologies, and develop professional training programs for students, specialists, and startups. It also aims to strengthen the impact of local initiatives such as Make it in the Emirates by highlighting the critical role of universities in shaping the industrial ADU's participation at Make it in the Emirates, students presented diverse, innovative projects that reflected the university's commitment to applied research, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary learning. Highlights included PipeGuard Falcon, an AI-powered robotic system for pipeline inspection and predictive maintenance; 3D-printed concrete solutions using locally sourced materials to support sustainable infrastructure; and AiMM, a smart medication management system designed to enhance patient safety and healthcare efficiency. Other highlights included a drone detection and tracking system, an autonomous marine vessel for debris collection, an AgriTech dispersion device for precision farming, and custom circuit boards advancing automation and Dhabi University reaffirms its role as a key contributor to the UAE's industrial transformation and its continued participation in ambitious national initiatives such as Make it in the Emirates. By cultivating innovation and talent, ADU is preparing the next generation of engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs to lead in a future shaped by advanced technology, sustainability, and knowledge-based growth. For more information about Abu Dhabi University, please visit:
