Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: Bahrain News Agency
Bahrain’s Minister of Sustainable Development, Noor bint Ali Al Khulaif, has said that the Kingdom is fully committed to protecting natural resources and fighting climate change. She made these remarks on July 26, a day that marks the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem.
This day is celebrated every year to help people around the world understand how important mangrove trees are. These trees live along coasts and help protect both marine life and the environment.
What Are Mangroves and Why Are They Important?
Mangrove trees grow along coastlines where land meets the sea. Their roots hold the soil in place and help prevent erosion. They also protect shorelines from storms and waves.
Mangroves are homes for many fish, birds, and marine animals. They help keep the sea clean and store large amounts of carbon dioxide, which helps fight climate change. For these reasons, mangroves are very valuable for both the environment and people.
Bahrain Celebrates Mangrove Conservation Day
Minister Al Khulaif spoke about Bahrain’s strong support for protecting mangroves on the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem. This day is used to remind the world that mangroves are in danger due to pollution, rising sea levels, and destruction caused by human activities.
She said that Bahrain will continue working on programmes and actions that help the country stay on the right path toward sustainable development. This includes not only planting trees but also teaching people about the importance of mangroves.
Raising Awareness Among the Public
One of the main goals that the minister highlighted is increasing public awareness. She said that people must understand how important mangroves are for the environment.
When people know how mangroves help protect the coastline and support marine life, they are more likely to join in efforts to protect them. Minister Al Khulaif encouraged more people, schools, and communities to get involved in protecting Bahrain’s natural environment.
Involving the Community in Conservation
Minister Al Khulaif said that Bahrain wants more community involvement. This means everyone—from individuals and families to schools and private companies—should take part in saving mangroves and improving the natural environment.
The government wants people to help plant more trees, protect coastal areas, and join clean-up campaigns. This is part of a bigger effort to create a culture where everyone cares about nature and wants to help protect it.
Expanding Tree Planting Projects
Al Khulaif also talked about the need to increase afforestation efforts. Afforestation means planting trees in places where there were no trees before.
Bahrain has a national plan to plant more mangrove trees, especially in coastal areas. This is an important step in restoring ecosystems, improving air quality, and creating green spaces for the future.
Protecting Marine and Coastal Life
According to the minister, protecting marine ecosystems, like coral reefs, fish nurseries, and seagrasses, is also a big part of Bahrain’s plan. Mangroves play an important role in keeping the sea healthy and safe for marine life.
By protecting mangroves and planting more trees along the coast, Bahrain is also protecting its marine animals, such as crabs, shrimp, and many types of fish that rely on mangrove roots for shelter and food.
Linking Nature to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Minister Al Khulaif said that mangrove protection is not just about the environment—it is also a key part of reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The SDGs are global goals created by the United Nations to make the world cleaner, fairer, and healthier by the year 2030. By taking care of mangroves, Bahrain is helping reach these goals, especially those related to climate action, life below water, and sustainable cities.
Reaching Carbon Neutrality by 2060
Bahrain has a goal to become carbon neutral by the year 2060. This means the country wants to remove as much carbon from the atmosphere as it produces. Planting mangrove trees helps in this mission because mangroves trap and store carbon.
Minister Al Khulaif said that taking care of mangroves and planting more of them is an important part of reaching this long-term climate goal.
The Bahrain Mangroves Initiative
A major project helping these efforts is the Bahrain Mangroves Initiative. This was launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
The goal of the initiative is to quadruple the number of mangrove trees in Bahrain by the year 2035. That means the mangrove population will grow four times bigger than it is today.
This project is not just about planting trees—it also focuses on protecting existing mangroves, restoring damaged areas, and using technology to track progress.
Investing in the Environment and Future
Minister Al Khulaif said that Bahrain is also investing money and resources in climate and environmental projects. These investments are part of the country’s long-term plan to build a strong, green economy that is good for people and nature.
Bahrain sees environmental action as an important pillar of its sustainable development strategy. That means protecting nature is just as important as building roads, schools, or businesses.
Working Together with Other Partners
The minister stressed the importance of partnerships. Bahrain wants to work with international organizations, research institutions, the private sector, and non-profits.
By working together, these groups can help Bahrain reach its goals faster. This includes scientific research, new environmental technologies, and teaching younger generations about the importance of caring for the planet.
Supporting Innovation and Green Research
Minister Al Khulaif also called for more environmental research and innovation. She said that new ideas and technologies are needed to solve modern environmental problems.
Universities, scientists, and tech companies can play a big role by creating tools to monitor mangroves, improve planting methods, and clean polluted waters. This will help Bahrain take smarter and more effective steps in its green journey.
A Greener Bahrain for Future Generations
In her speech, Minister Noor bint Ali Al Khulaif made it clear that protecting the environment is a national priority for Bahrain. By focusing on mangrove conservation, tree planting, community action, and innovation, Bahrain is taking serious steps to build a cleaner, greener, and safer future.
The government believes that everyone—from leaders to schoolchildren—has a role to play. With strong teamwork, smart planning, and public support, Bahrain can protect its beautiful coasts, fight climate change, and ensure a better world for future generations.
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