
Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri: Abu Dhabi is at the Forefront of Global Efforts to Mitigate Climate Change
Abu Dhabi, June, 2025: On World Environment Day, Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), affirmed the Agency's unwavering commitment to protecting the environment, conserving natural resources and biodiversity, and proactively addressing the impacts of climate change, in line with the UAE Vision 2071 for sustainable development.
'Under the theme of 'Ending Plastic Pollution', we continue our journey to implement strategies and projects that contribute to mitigating climate change, starting with the launch of the Abu Dhabi Single-Use Plastic Policy, which to date has eliminated the consumption of more than 360 million bags. In addition, our innovative, incentive-based Bottle Return Scheme initiative, has been remarkably successful in recovering and recycling single-use plastic bottles. Since its launch, this initiative has collected more than 230 million plastic bottles, equivalent to 2,000 tonnes of recyclable plastic. This scheme has both promoted recycling and empowered residents to embrace responsible waste disposal methods, fostering a true culture of sustainability.'
'These initiatives, among others, have positioned the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi as a leader in forging local and global partnerships,' Dr. Al Dhaheri continued. 'We have set ambitious goals to fulfil our commitments to environmental protection and mitigation, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all and strengthening the emirate's circular economy. This has solidified Abu Dhabi's leading global position in environmental, climate and sustainability-related initiatives.'
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Mid East Info
11-06-2025
- Mid East Info
From Nice to Abu Dhabi: Global Forum Builds Momentum for Ocean Action Beyond UNOC3
Nice, France – June, 2025 — With momentum building around ocean action at the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, a high-level forum titled ' The Ocean Relay: From Nice to Abu Dhabi ' emerged as a defining moment, convening global and regional leaders to map out a bold, coordinated path for marine and coastal health and sustainability. Held at La Baleine at the Palais des Expositions de Nice and convened in strategic partnership by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and the Republic of France, the forum — facilitated by MENA Oceans, an initiative by Goumbook — featured the official announcement of the Nice – Abu Dhabi Manifesto, bridging outcomes from UNOC3 with the upcoming IUCN World Conservation Congress (Abu Dhabi, October 2025), and the UN Water Conference (UAE, December 2026). During the event, Richard Brisius, Race Chairman of The Ocean Race handed over the Nature's Baton to HE Dr. Sheikha Al Dhaheri – Secretary General of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi. Nature's Baton is a symbol of the Relay4Nature joint initiative between Peter Thomson and The Ocean Race, which helps give the ocean a voice on the critical issues affecting our planet at landmark events where decisions are made about the environment. This pivotal event underscored the urgency of sustaining focus on ocean action beyond UNOC3, and aligning priorities to advance ecosystem health, foster a regenerative Blue Economy, and enhance interlinkages between critical nature agendas. In her remarks, H.E. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri , Secretary General of Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi and the Global Vice Chair of SDG 14, emphasized the UAE's commitment to international cooperation: 'As we convene in Nice and look ahead to Abu Dhabi, it is clear that our collective future depends on unified action for our oceans. The UAE is proud to lead and champion this momentum through international partnerships that align coastal and marine priorities. By building bridges between regions and reinforcing science-based policies, we are laying the groundwork for lasting impact – where ocean health becomes a cornerstone of global climate resilience and sustainable development.' 'After the One Ocean Summit in 2022, and as co-host of the third United Nations Ocean Conference this week in Nice, France remains strongly committed to protecting the ocean as a crucial climate regulator and reservoir of invaluable biodiversity.' H.E. Barbara Pompili, France Ambassador for the Environment, said. 'IUCN is a long-standing partner and a key ally in preserving ocean resources. Through this Nice – Abu Dhabi Manifesto, we reaffirm together our shared ambition to safeguard the ocean.' 'After UNOC3, we are accountable to the commitments made in Nice. The Ocean Relay has affirmed that the ocean agenda is continuous, and it needs to be carried forward through sustained commitment, credible, science-based action, and collaborative partnerships across sectors' said Dr. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General. 'With only five years to achieve the 30×30 target, partnerships like the one that underscores this Manifesto are vital to keep ambition high and step-up actions to protect oceans. IUCN and France have been allies for decades, and we are pleased to continue working together to advance the mandates forged here and translate them into coordinated, equitable pathways to transformative change, as we look towards the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, and beyond.' Tatiana Antonelli Abella , founder and managing director of Goumbook and Chair of the MENA Oceans Initiative , highlighted the importance of sustained momentum for lasting progress: 'Taking the outcomes from UNOC3 here in Nice forward, The Ocean Relay has helped lay the foundations of a purpose-driven agenda that bridges science, policy, and ground realities. As we look toward Abu Dhabi and the milestones ahead, the imperative is to build collaborative pathways that drive this momentum onward and turn our shared ambition into coordinated, measurable progress for ocean health and coastal resilience.' Session Highlights: Following keynotes by H.E. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri and Minister Barbara Pompili, the panel discussion centred on transformative efforts and opportunities for global collaboration that would turn the tide on ocean conservation beyond the midway point of the UN Ocean Decade (2021 – 2030). Among the forum's key outcomes were commitments to: Align ocean and water conservation priorities across global milestones and within broader environmental policies both regionally and globally Mobilise state and non-state actors to collaboratively accelerate progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14) Drive forward initiatives, strengthen partnerships, and advance practical solutions for lasting ocean health and coastal resilience Looking ahead towards Abu Dhabi and the evolving trajectory of the global ocean agenda beyond it, 'The Ocean Relay', and the commitments highlighted therein, set the tone for actionable and forward-looking frameworks to deliver lasting change for ocean and coastal systems globally. About Goumbook: Goumbook is a social enterprise dedicated to accelerating Sustainability and Climate Action in the UAE and beyond since 2009. Goumbook shapes the global sustainability landscape by offering local solutions to corporates, youth, civil society, and the public sector. Through their programmes and initiatives, Goumbook mobilises cross sectorial stakeholders to drive action. By addressing the unique challenges faced by the MENA region, Goumbook ensures that MENA's priorities are at the forefront of global sustainability efforts. Goumbook raises awareness, develops and runs initiatives, advises and consults to change mindsets and create impact on the current and future living experience of the people in the MENA region. About Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi EAD: Established in 1996, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is committed to protecting and enhancing air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of our desert and marine ecosystem. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, we embrace international best practice, innovation and hard work to institute effective policy measures. We seek to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of our national agenda. About IUCN : IUCN is a membership Union uniquely composed of both government and civil society organisations. It provides public, private and non-governmental organisations with the knowledge and tools that enable human progress, economic development and nature conservation to take place together. Created in 1948, IUCN is now the world's largest and most diverse environmental network, harnessing the knowledge, resources and reach of more than 1,400 Member organisations and around 17,000 experts. It is a leading provider of conservation data, assessments and analysis. Its broad membership enables IUCN to fill the role of incubator and trusted repository of best practices, tools and international standards. IUCN provides a neutral space in which diverse stakeholders including governments, NGOs, scientists, businesses, local communities, indigenous peoples organisations and others can work together to forge and implement solutions to environmental challenges and achieve sustainable development. Working with many partners and supporters, IUCN implements a large and diverse portfolio of conservation projects worldwide. Combining the latest science with the traditional knowledge of local communities, these projects work to reverse habitat loss, restore ecosystems and improve people's well-being.


Mid East Info
09-06-2025
- Mid East Info
Under the directives of Hamdan bin Zayed, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi records 97.4% Sustainable Fisheries Index, reaffirming Abu Dhabi's leadership in sustainable fisheries management
Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), aimed at conserving, protecting, and enhancing fisheries resources, the emirate has recorded significant achievements, for the sixth consecutive year, in its marine monitoring and conservation efforts to mark World Oceans Day. EAD has achieved an increase in the Sustainable Fisheries Index, reaching 97.4 per cent by the end of 2024, up from just 8.9 per cent in 2018. This performance reaffirms Abu Dhabi's leadership in sustainable fisheries management. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan said: 'This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment and the diligent efforts of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi to safeguard our natural wealth and optimise sustainable marine resource stewardship. It reinforces Abu Dhabi's ambitious vision to strike a harmonious balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, serving as a global model for confronting environmental challenges for a prosperous and resilient future.' Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, said: 'The significant progress recorded in the Sustainable Fisheries Index underscores Abu Dhabi's leadership in environmental conservation. We are committed to deploying best-in-class management practices and leveraging scientific capabilities to restore fish populations and protect marine ecosystems. This success affirms the importance of evidence-based policy and global best practices in conserving our natural heritage for future generations.' EAD's recent monitoring efforts also yielded notable findings that further validate the success of its marine sustainability agenda. These include the landing of 55 nuaimi fish– a species rarely sighted in recent years – as well as the first recorded presence of the white-spotted grouper in Abu Dhabi, now officially registered on the international Fish Base database. Additional sightings include rare species such as the large-scaled triggerfish and the spotted oceanic triggerfish, as well as the general presence of larger fish, indicating healthier marine ecosystems. EAD has implemented a comprehensive series of internationally aligned policies for fish stock recovery. These measures include regulating commercial fishing activities through sustainable methods, as well as implementing new regulations for recreational fishing. The Agency has also established 6 marine reserves within the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network where fishing is regulated, enhanced sustainable aquaculture and fish stocks through coral culture and artificial reefs as part of the Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens initiative.


Mid East Info
06-06-2025
- Mid East Info
Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment Statement on World Environment Day June 5, 2025
On this World Environment Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting our precious environment. Inspired by the vision of our founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who recognised the link between a healthy environment and a thriving society, the UAE remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding our natural heritage. We envision a future with thriving ecosystems and protected life both on land and in the sea – a legacy we build together as a community. This year, World Environment Day calls for collective action to tackle plastic pollution, a challenge that demands our immediate attention and unified efforts. In response to this pressing issue, the UAE is implementing a comprehensive system to ensure proper and effective management of plastic products. Starting 1 January 2026, the UAE will implement a comprehensive ban on the import, production, and trade of single-use plastic products. This builds upon the phased approach initiated in 2024 with the ban on plastic bags. This decisive action underscores our resolve and commitment to environmental stewardship, driving us towards a future where waste and pollution are designed out of our systems. As part of our global efforts to reduce plastic waste, the Clean Rivers, one of Erth Zayed Philanthropies' initiatives, tackles plastic pollution in river systems by empowering communities and driving innovative solutions to create plastic-free waterways. Our Circular Economy Policy is a key driver of this transformation, optimising resource use in critical sectors such as green infrastructure, transportation, manufacturing, and responsible food production and consumption. The policy prioritises reducing plastic waste and promoting innovative solutions for sustainable packaging and recycling. Furthermore, we are resolutely committed to managing hazardous waste and aggressively reducing plastic waste at every level. Each of us, as responsible members of our community, can play a leading role in realising our nation's vision by joining the mission to eliminate unnecessary plastic from our daily lives. Let us become active agents of change, leading a powerful movement towards thriving communities, and a vibrant, resilient environment. Let us protect the land and the sea that are so integral to our lives, for ourselves, our loved ones, and for generations to come. Let us renew our focus on the ecosystems that sustain us, remembering that this year's theme, Beat Plastic Pollution, is a call to action for every member of our community. Together, we can build a brighter, greener future for all.