Manama: The Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) and the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture organized a field visit to Arad Bay Protected Area for representatives of local newspapers to mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, observed annually on July 26. The visit aimed to highlight the environmental value of mangrove trees and underscore the importance of national initiatives dedicated to their protection, as part of ongoing efforts to promote the sustainability of natural resources.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the visit also reflected the commitment of relevant authorities to strengthening the role of media as a key partner in raising public awareness and supporting Bahrain's environmental sustainability goals. Jaafar Sami Al Tajer, Director of Local Agricultural Production at the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, reiterated Bahrain's determination to advance national plans and projects aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2060 and enhancing its commitment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
He highlighted the Bahrain Mangroves initiative, launched under the National Afforestation Plan, which seeks to quadruple the number of mangrove trees in the Kingdom by 2035. Al Tajer noted that mangrove trees represent one of the most effective natural solutions to climate change, thanks to their role in absorbing carbon dioxide, improving water quality, and providing a rich habitat for marine life. He commended the national collaboration to enhance marine afforestation and protect coastal ecosystems.
Nouf Ali Al Wasmi, Director of Reserves Directorate at the SCE, said Arad Bay stands as a leading national model in preserving biodiversity and ecological habitats, and serves as a hub for environmental and climate awareness in Bahrain. She noted that the SCE is implementing an ambitious national plan to expand mangrove growth and achieve the highest levels of environmental sustainability, thereby strengthening the Kingdom's readiness to address environmental and climate challenges effectively.