In September 2023, environmental advocate and author Erfan Firouzi was invited to speak at the prestigious 20th Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX). Known for his dedication to biodiversity conservation and sustainability, Firouzi used this platform to share his passion for the natural world and the story behind his acclaimed book, The Year Earth Changed.
Speaking at the booth of the Environmental Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), Firouzi captivated audiences with his message of hope and action, emphasizing the urgent need to protect biodiversity and reimagine humanity’s relationship with nature. His participation at ADIHEX highlighted the event’s role as a global platform for cultural heritage and environmental sustainability.
What is ADIHEX? A Celebration of Heritage and Sustainability
The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) is the largest event of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. Established in 2003, the exhibition brings together traditional practices, cultural heritage, and modern innovation. With a focus on falconry, hunting, equestrian sports, and craftsmanship, ADIHEX has grown into a global stage where the past meets the future.
Each year, the event attracts exhibitors and participants from over 50 countries, serving as a hub for dialogue on conservation, sustainability, and ecological responsibility. In its landmark 20th edition in 2023, ADIHEX showcased:
- 900+ exhibitors representing a wide range of industries and organizations.
- Workshops, seminars, and interactive exhibits focused on sustainability and cultural preservation.
- Thousands of visitors eager to engage in discussions about tradition, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
ADIHEX reflects the UAE’s commitment to balancing cultural heritage with progressive conservation practices, making it a fitting venue for Firouzi’s impactful message.
The Debut of Sustainable Sands
A major highlight of ADIHEX 2023 was the presentation of Sustainable Sands, an innovative educational game co-created by Erfan Firouzi and Majed Bin Saad.
This game, introduced by Majed at the EAD booth, is designed to teach players about sustainability and the UAE’s environmental journey. By combining interactive gameplay with real-world ecological challenges, Sustainable Sands fosters a deeper understanding of conservation and sustainable living.
Through engaging activities, players explore themes such as habitat restoration, water conservation, and balancing development with environmental protection. The game’s focus on making learning fun and impactful resonated strongly with the audience at ADIHEX.
To learn more about Sustainable Sands, visit The Wildlife Focus website.
Erfan Firouzi at ADIHEX: A Voice for Biodiversity
Firouzi’s talk at the Environmental Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) booth focused on two key aspects of his work:
1. The Story Behind The Year Earth Changed
Firouzi shared the inspiration behind his book, a narrative that intertwines personal stories and scientific insights to explore the importance of biodiversity. He highlighted how storytelling can inspire people of all ages to take meaningful action for the planet.
The book delves into the evolution of life on Earth and presents a hopeful vision for a future where humanity and nature coexist in harmony. Firouzi’s presentation underscored how The Year Earth Changed empowers readers to view conservation as a shared responsibility.
2. The Concept of Rewilding
In his talk, Firouzi introduced the audience to the idea of rewilding—restoring ecosystems to their natural state to allow biodiversity to thrive. He discussed global examples and tied the concept to the UAE’s conservation successes, such as the reintroduction of the Arabian Oryx and the protection of marine species.
Key Themes of Firouzi’s Contributions
Firouzi’s talk and Sustainable Sands both emphasized themes critical to conservation and sustainability:
- The Vital Role of Biodiversity
Firouzi discussed how biodiversity underpins life on Earth, providing essential services such as clean air, water, and food. Protecting it is not just an environmental issue but a fundamental human need. - The UAE as a Conservation Leader
He highlighted the UAE’s successful conservation programs, from protecting endangered species like the Arabian Oryx to implementing marine preservation projects. These efforts demonstrate how local action can create a global ripple effect. - Education and Engagement through Innovation
The debut of Sustainable Sands exemplified how innovative tools can make sustainability education accessible and enjoyable. Firouzi emphasized that engaging the next generation through such initiatives is key to ensuring a sustainable future. - A Call to Action
Firouzi ended with a powerful appeal to attendees, urging them to take part in conservation efforts, whether by reducing waste, planting native species, or supporting biodiversity projects. He reinforced that individual and collective actions can drive meaningful change.
Why ADIHEX Matters
ADIHEX represents the perfect convergence of cultural heritage and sustainability. By celebrating traditional practices alongside modern conservation strategies, it highlights the importance of preserving the past while securing the future.
Firouzi’s participation and the introduction of Sustainable Sands brought fresh perspectives to the event, showcasing how innovation and education can inspire action.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of ADIHEX 2023
For Erfan Firouzi, ADIHEX 2023 was more than an opportunity to share his work—it was a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity in addressing environmental challenges. His talk and the launch of Sustainable Sands exemplify how individuals and communities can come together to promote sustainability.
As Firouzi continues his journey, his message is clear: small actions can create a big impact. Events like ADIHEX remind us of the importance of unity in building a future where humanity and nature coexist in harmony.
