The Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah (EPAA) revealed that it had completed its final preparations for the 22nd Sharjah International Conservation Forum for Arabia’s Biodiversity, which takes place at Sharjah Safari, Al Dhaid, from February 6th to 9th. The year’s conference will focus on genetics and conservation regionally, attracting more than 120 experts, researchers, and specialists in environmental affairs from around the world.

ImportantSignificance

Her Excellency Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah said: “This edition of the annual international forum bears a distinctive specificity and an important significance, as it comes after the effects and consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. It is also organised in Sharjah Safari, an important environmental landmark. It confirms our steadfast continuation of the approach of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and his vision to enhance our sustainability.” She emphasised that the authority continues its unremitting efforts, with the wise leadership’s support, in achieving its ambitious strategic goals in biodiversity and wildlife protection as the event is now in its 22nd year.

Sessions and workshops on genetics

Al Suwaidi added: “The EPAA looks forward to receiving more than 120 experts, researchers and specialists from Arab and international countries, who will participate in intensive dialogue and specialised workshops over the four days on genetics and related aspects of conservation and application.” In the regional context, important topics will be led by prominent environmental expert Dr Helen Senn of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland. Discussions will be enriched by reviewing the opinions of practitioners through regional case studies, aspects of classification, monitoring and management, and biobank experiences. In addition, a series of field tours will be held for participants on the environments and areas of Sharjah Safari. The forum will embody an accessible, lively, and spacious platform for reviewing environmental issues, consultation, and discussion, exchanging ideas and information, and finding solutions to advance international efforts in this field.

Consolidating Achievements and Continuing Successes

From its inception, Sharjah International Conservation Forum has achieved many successes and qualitative contributions to assessing the regional Red List. This includes formal assessments of birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and major groups of freshwater invertebrates, which have been undertaken to increase the effectiveness of assessments of these species and to recommend appropriate conservation actions.

Sharjah Safari… an inspiring environmental project

Sharjah Safari, the leading project in the world, provides its visitors with the most extensive safari trip outside Africa, extending over an area of ​​8 square kilometres and distributed in 12 different environments that represent life, terrain, and biodiversity in Africa. The park includes more than 50 thousand animals representing more than 120 species and comprises over 100,000 African and local trees. Sharjah Safari offers its visitors an exceptional and inspiring experience, enabling them to explore African wildlife like never before.