The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) recently organised an event for National Environment Day with the theme “Nature-Based Solutions”. Held at Souq Al Jubail in Sharjah, the event, which was aimed at all community groups, helped to boost environmental awareness and social responsibility by highlighting the individual’s role in preserving the environment and its resources. The event was well-received, and the audience expressed its appreciation for EPAA’s awareness-raising efforts and its role in protecting and preserving the environment and conserving biodiversity.

HE Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, EPAA Chairperson, said that National Environment Day is an important environmental programme, explaining that EPAA is keen to celebrate National Environment Day by organising appropriate events, activities, programmes and initiatives. Starting in February and continuing until June, EPAA is holding an exhibition to launch a campaign to raise awareness about the seas and coasts. The campaign includes several initiatives, such as a coast and seabed cleaning campaign, a campaign to plant mangrove trees in Kalba Protected Area, a coral reef culture project and campaigns related to seabirds. The initiatives will also include reviewing marine laws for the public, including fishing laws, authorised fishing gear and applying for professional or recreational fishing licenses. One nature-based solution that EPAA undertakes throughout the year is afforestation with local plants. Local trees are planted in the protected areas, and EPAA undertakes other afforestation campaigns in areas under the Authority and on school premises in cooperation with institutions and schools.

Mrs Al Suwaidi explained that other nature-based solutions involve absorbing carbon and pollutants by boosting the cultivation of mangroves and planting local plants, and increasing marine resources by rehabilitating coral reefs.

The event aimed to boost environmental awareness and social responsibility by highlighting individuals’ roles in preserving the environment and its resources. EPAA emphasised that the wise leadership attaches great importance to environmental action. EPAA also showcased the Authority’s efforts to preserve the environment and its achievements, highlighting sustainable practices and the rationalisation of resource consumption in the interest of sustainability. By drawing attention to the importance of the environment and environmental issues, EPAA encouraged individuals to take positive action and to form groups committed to protecting the environment and conserving biodiversity.