Abu Dhabi Named 'Arab Environmental Capital'
Abu Dhabi's environmental achievements have been recognised with a prestigious award.
The General Secretariat of the League of Arab States and the Council of Arab Ministers have named Abu Dhabi the Arab Environmental Capital in 2023 in recognition of the emirate's environmental achievements.
In addition, the organization noted the actions of the emirate's authorities aimed at combating climate change and the implementation of relevant initiatives and projects that contribute to improving the quality of life of people.
Abu Dhabi has won a global award for its coastal and marine ecosystem restoration programmes, and Bu Tinah Island has been listed as a UNESCO natural wonder, reflecting the emirate's efforts to preserve nature reserves.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), said the emirate's achievements in protecting the environment and combating climate change are the result of the wise vision and directives of the country's leadership, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
The Sheikh also added that the award is the result of joint efforts by public and private bodies, sectors and institutions in Abu Dhabi to conserve natural resources and improve the environment.
It is an example of how the emirate’s commitment, effective planning and successful implementation of large-scale sustainable development initiatives can benefit generations to come.
Abu Dhabi won the competition organised by the Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for the Environment at its 34th session in Muscat last year, which coincided with two important local and global events: the UAE declared 2023 the Year of Sustainable Development under the slogan Today for Tomorrow, and hosted the COP28 climate summit.
Thanks to programmes targeting students, youth, employees and ordinary residents, commitment to environmental behaviour in the emirate has increased from 55% in 2012 to 78% in 2021.
