Environmental Protection in the UAE: A Comprehensive Overview
Environmental Development and Protection in the UAE
The UAE has experienced a significant environmental renaissance in recent years, with environmental awareness becoming a top priority. The delicate ecosystem of the southern Gulf region has emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility. Alongside the government, numerous non-governmental environmental groups actively advocate for environmental protection, demonstrating a collective commitment to preserving the natural world.
The Relationship Between Arab Tradition and Culture and the Natural World
The Holy Qur’an emphasizes the significance of studying and appreciating all living things. In the challenging environment of Arabia, where resources are scarce, people have traditionally lived frugally. While modernization has brought changes, many traditions, such as falconry, persist. Modern falconers often use captive-bred falcons to conserve wild populations and employ scientific research to ensure sustainable practices.
Governmental Bodies
i. Federal Government
The UAE government has consistently prioritized environmental protection, establishing institutions like the Supreme Committee for Environment (1975), the Federal Authority for Environment (1993), and the Ministry of Environment and Water (2006). In 2016, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment was formed to address climate change concerns through comprehensive policies and initiatives.
ii. Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries
This ministry oversees both marine and terrestrial matters, including coastal and marine commercial fisheries, aquaculture development, and research programs on fishery stocks.
iii. Individual Emirate Agencies
The Environmental Research and Wildlife Development Agency (ERWDA) in Abu Dhabi conducts research and offers environmental services. The National Avian Research Centre, part of ERWDA, focuses on bird-related research and conservation efforts.
iv. Municipalities
Municipalities in major towns manage various activities, including pest control, waste management, parks, gardens, and zoos. The Food and Environment Control Centre (FECC) in Abu Dhabi addresses public health issues.
v. Academic Research Institutes
Emirates University in Al Ain contributes to environmental research through its specialized centers and collaborations.
vi. Non-environmental Governmental Bodies and Nationalized Companies
Entities like the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) adhere to strict environmental standards and actively participate in environmental policy and practices.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
Several NGOs in the UAE focus on environmental issues, including the Arabian Leopard Trust (ALT), Environment Friends Society (EFS), Emirates Environmental Group (EEG), and various natural history groups. These organizations engage in lobbying, education, awareness campaigns, research, and surveys.
Other National and International NGOs
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA), and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) actively collaborate with UAE organizations on environmental initiatives.
Environmental Legislation
The UAE has enacted several laws to protect the environment and its resources. Key legislation includes:
- UAE Hunting Law, Federal Law No. (9) for 1983: This law prohibits hunting, gathering, or destroying eggs of various bird species and bans hunting specific animals like gazelles, oryx, dugongs, hares, and spiny-tailed lizards.
- Federal Law No. (24) for 1999 for Protection and Development of the Environment: This law outlines objectives such as environmental protection, pollution control, sustainable resource management, and public health safeguards.
Environmental Education and Awareness
The UAE celebrates National Environment Day annually on February 4th, raising awareness and promoting environmental initiatives.
Conclusion
The UAE demonstrates a pragmatic approach to balancing environment and development. Dialogue and collaboration are prioritized to find solutions and protect the delicate ecological balance. As Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan stated, “…we shall continue to work to protect our environment and our wildlife… It is a duty – and, if we fail, our children, rightly, will reproach us…”