Manama: Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, highlighted Bahrain's ongoing efforts to implement a comprehensive national strategy aimed at reducing carbon emissions by 30% by 2035 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
According to Bahrain News Agency, marking the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, observed annually on July 26, the minister pointed to key national initiatives supporting this commitment. These include the National Action Plan Blueprint Bahrain, the afforestation strategy to plant 3.6 million trees, and the designation of Tree Week as an annual national observance, each reinforcing Bahrain's commitment to environmental sustainability.
Al Mubarak highlighted the importance of the Bahrain Mangroves initiative, launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, as a central pillar in protecting and rehabilitating coastal ecosystems. He said the initiative continues to play a leading role in expanding mangrove cultivation along Bahrain's shores and contributes directly to national efforts to strengthen environmental balance and expand coastal green cover.
He underscored the progress made in mangrove afforestation, with the Kingdom aiming to quadruple the number of mangrove trees by 2035.
The minister also emphasised the importance of community partnerships in supporting environmental goals and fostering public awareness of the value of mangrove conservation. He stated that the Bahrain Mangroves initiative aligns with international efforts to protect marine and coastal environments and address climate change.
Al Mubarak noted that the ministry, in coordination with relevant stakeholders, continues to implement effective environmental policies and inclusive community-based initiatives to increase mangrove tree populations, enhance awareness of their ecological importance, and promote sustainable management of these ecosystems.
He reiterated the ministry's commitment to expanding afforestation and environmental projects in line with Bahrain's strategic vision for a more sustainable future and the adoption of best practices to tackle climate challenges.
The minister said the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem underlines Bahrain's commitment to protecting coastal ecosystems and promoting sustainability, in line with its aspiration to serve as a national model for environmental responsibility and climate action.