Protecting biodiversity: All you need to know about the Dubai Mangrove Forest
Dubai’s efforts to reign as the most desirable tourist destination on the planet knows no limitations. However, besides the glitzy cityscape and luxury resorts, the emirate is also ramping up its environmental efforts. The government empowers and supports corporations and local NGOs that are protecting the environment. There are multiple protected sites in Dubai where the local ecosystem, flora and fauna are thriving. The Dubai Mangrove Forest is the latest stellar example. Let’s take a look.
ALL ABOUT THE DUBAI MANGROVE FOREST
Working on their aim to establish the emirate as a hub for environmental sustainability, Dubai has implemented widespread ‘Green’ government initiatives, including this beautiful new mangroves forest.
The stunning Dubai Mangroves Forest located at the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary is all set to be a lush green haven along the city’s coastline. The area is a United Nations protected reserve, also listed on the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance. The latest green initiative aligns with the UAE Vision 2021 and is part of Dubai’s plan to transform the city, with more than half of it becoming a natural reverse in the next two decades. The forest will have 15 km of mangroves and 6 km of wetlands
WHY IS DUBAI MANGROVE FOREST AN IMPORTANT PROJECT?
Recently, close to 1,000 mangrove trees were planted along Dubai’s coastline and the green space is expected to grow further over the coming few months. P&G announced that it will plant more saplings soon and adopt four to five-year-old mangroves to help reduce the carbon footprint.
The Founder and President of EMEG, Maj. Ali Al Suwaidi, stated that an area of 500,000 sq.m. has been blanketed by greenery. When the tide is high, a large portion of the total area will be covered with water. Hence, it is only likely to grow greener. The forest will have coral reefs and seagrass beds, an ideal breeding ground for endangered turtle species. As many as 46 turtle nests were found along the beach last year.
Similarly, the location is expected to attract over 40 bird species. Different fish and crabs will also find a home in Dubai’s newest mangrove forest.
WHO CAN VISIT THE FOREST?
To protect the sanctuary and wildlife, Mangrove Forest Dubai is not open to the general public yet. However, visitors can explore the venue by invitation. According to Al Suweidi, the Founder and President of EMEG, the focus is on educational field trips and corporate team building trips.
However, plans are being made to allow access to the public in the near future. An online booking system is being developed so people can make a booking prior to their arrival. We will be updating this post with relevant details when an official announcement is made. Work is being done at a rapid speed.
A single wooden ramp or boardwalk has been built at the destination, allowing those who visit to get a better look at the mangrove forest and its wildlife.
FAQS
WHAT CAN I FIND AT THE P&G DUBAI MANGROVE FOREST?
The area will feature coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds and a natural beach. There are plans to use the forest for animal rescue and species preservation as well.
WHY ARE MANGROVES ENVIRONMENTALLY IMPORTANT?
Mangroves are small trees that grow in saltwater. What makes them special is that they can balance the ecosystem, protect the coastline, prevent erosion, and serve as a breeding ground for turtles, fish and other animal species. And, most importantly, these mangroves soak up five times more carbon dioxide than other plants.
WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP WITH THE EFFORT?
One of the purposes of this project is to raise awareness about creating a sustainable environment and get the masses involved. As part of this effort, companies and schools will be invited to plant saplings in the forest.
What’s interesting is that those involved will get to know how the tree they planted has grown over time. P&G has partnered with the EcoMatcher app that allows you to visit your tree virtually.
With the app, you can communicate with your sapling and ask “questions” like where it lives, how much it has grown in size, what it is currently doing and its impact on the environment. It’s a nice way to see how your efforts are making real difference.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER MANGROVE PARKS OR FORESTS IN THE UAE?
Yes, there a few mangrove parks in the UAE like the Jubail Mangrove Park Abu Dhabi and Mangrove National Park Abu Dhabi.
Projects like the Dubai Mangrove Forest are going to be critical when it comes to combating climate change. With the participation of three different direct stakeholders, i.e. the government, private companies and the general public, the impact of such ventures will be greater than even the obvious benefits. The awareness it creates will be invaluable, especially amongst young school children.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in the UAE often takes the lead on such projects. Plus, the UAE Energy 2050, an ambitious and timely intervention from the government can be a catalyst in improving the overall situation and implementing change.
Visit MyBayut to learn more about how you can make a difference in the fight against climate change in Dubai.
