The UAE’s 44th Planting Week began yesterday under the theme “Together, Let’s Plant the UAE.”
With the aim of planting 50,000 mangrove seedlings by March 1st, the initiative seeks to encourage people to contribute to preserving the environment and biodiversity and address environmental and climate-related challenges.
For the initiative, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) supplied seedlings to participating entities, supporting the UAE’s pledge to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030.
Speaking on the mission behind the initiative, H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said: “Trees function as complete ecosystems, offering not just an aesthetically pleasing environment and cooler temperatures but also serving as habitats for various birds and other creatures. Additionally, they play a crucial role in reducing carbon dioxide levels, producing oxygen, and yielding numerous agricultural crops.”
H.E explained that during Planting Week, the aim is to educate the community about the significance of tree planting and the wide-ranging benefits it brings, encouraging greater participation in tree planting, preservation, and development activities
Adding: “The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan held a strong passion for planting efforts since the formation of the nation. His vision and focus on engaging the community in tree planting efforts laid the foundation for our current approach. I urge community members to participate in Planting Week activities, aiming to make it an opportunity for continuous year-round planting.”
The 44th Planting Week, it was shared, focuses on integrating innovative technologies and practices, involving diverse sectors, including People of Determination, to contribute to green space preservation and expansion.
Organisers said the primary goal is to maintain and enhance green spaces by promoting native plants and raising awareness about the significance of planting.