Mangroves are a 'natural shield' against rising seas

UAE marks International Day for Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystem with renewed commitment; mangroves offer immense value as powerful carbon sinks: Minister.

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Dr Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said that the UAE has reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to preserving one of nature's most vital yet vulnerable ecosystems, the mangroves.

In her statement on the occasion of International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, she said, “We take a moment to celebrate our progress and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening these precious natural assets.”

She invited the public to observe “the spectacular and majestic mangroves that line our coast,” describing them as “a natural shield against rising seas, coastal erosion, and the impacts of climate change. She noted that mangroves “offer immense value as powerful carbon sinks, capable of storing up to four times more carbon than other tropical forests.”

“Mangroves also support rich biodiversity, providing a lifeline to fish and countless other creatures, offering essential food and shelter. Our national outlook, deeply aligned with the foresight of our leadership, is to develop these ecosystems within our country and across the globe.”