UAE’s Commitment to Biodiversity at COP16
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, the UAE’s Minister of Climate Change and Environment, led a delegation to the UN Biodiversity COP16 in Cali, Colombia. The conference, held from October 21 to November 1, 2024, marks two years of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, aiming for a harmonious world with nature by 2050.
UAE’s Efforts in Biodiversity
Dr. Al Dahak emphasized the UAE’s progress in biodiversity protection, highlighting legislation, protected areas, and species reintroduction. She called for global commitment to the Biodiversity Framework and stressed collaboration’s importance.
Mangrove and Marine Conservation
The UAE pledged to plant 100 million mangroves by 2030 and shared marine conservation strategies. Dr. Al Dahak discussed policy frameworks and innovative financing for marine biodiversity, urging global cooperation.
Freshwater Ecosystems and Water Security
At the One Water Summit, Dr. Al Dahak highlighted the UAE’s water initiatives, including the Freshwater Challenge and a $150 million commitment for water security. She discussed desalination, wastewater treatment, and smart irrigation.
Showcasing National Achievements
The UAE showcased its National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans, highlighting Key Biodiversity Areas and freshwater conservation efforts. The Mangrove Alliance for Climate meeting with Indonesia focused on strategy development for COP29.
Doubts Revealed
Dr. Amna Al Dahak -: Dr. Amna Al Dahak is a leader from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who is involved in environmental and biodiversity efforts. She represents her country in international meetings about nature and conservation.
UAE -: UAE stands for the United Arab Emirates, a country in the Middle East known for its modern cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
UN Biodiversity COP16 -: UN Biodiversity COP16 is a big meeting organized by the United Nations where countries discuss how to protect plants, animals, and natural environments. COP stands for Conference of the Parties.
Colombia -: Colombia is a country in South America known for its rich biodiversity, which means it has many different kinds of plants and animals.
Mangroves -: Mangroves are special trees that grow in salty water along coastlines. They are important because they protect the shore from storms and provide homes for many animals.
One Water Summit -: The One Water Summit is a gathering where people talk about how to manage and protect water resources. It’s important because water is essential for life.
$150 million commitment -: This means the UAE has promised to spend $150 million to help make sure there is enough clean water for everyone. It’s a big amount of money to help with water security.
National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans -: These are plans made by a country to protect and manage its natural resources, like plants and animals, to ensure they are safe and healthy for the future.
Key Biodiversity Areas -: Key Biodiversity Areas are places that are very important for the survival of different species. Protecting these areas helps keep the environment healthy.
Freshwater conservation -: Freshwater conservation means taking care of lakes, rivers, and other sources of fresh water to make sure they stay clean and available for people and animals.
