Mangroves—nature’s resilient guardians of the coast—have emerged as vital ecosystems in the fight against climate change. With their ability to store carbon, protect biodiversity, and shield coastal communities from erosion and rising seas, these “Blue Carbon” ecosystems are an ecological marvel. Recently, efforts to restore mangroves in the UAE have gained momentum, thanks to collaborative projects like the Emirates Nature-WWF Mangrove Plantation Program in Khor Kalba.
A Global Cause with Local Roots
This ambitious restoration initiative is part of the Priceless Planet Coalition (PPC), a global movement spearheaded by Mastercard in partnership with Conservation International (CI) and the World Resources Institute (WRI). The program aims to restore 100 million trees worldwide, with Emirates Nature-WWF taking the lead in regenerating 50,000 mangroves in the Northern Emirates.
The focus of this project is holistic, blending environmental, community, and climate-centric benefits to ensure the mangrove ecosystems not only thrive but also create sustainable opportunities for the surrounding communities.
Planting Hope in Khor Kalba
One of the UAE’s key mangrove restoration sites is Khor Kalba, a stunning conservation reserve located on the eastern coast in the Emirate of Sharjah.
What Makes Khor Kalba Special?
- Biodiversity Hotspot: Khor Kalba is home to the Arabian collared kingfisher (Todiramphus chloris kalbaensis), an endemic bird species found nowhere else in the world.
- Conservation Reserve: Managed by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA), the reserve boasts one of the UAE’s largest natural mangrove forests, which plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance.
In November 2022, a total of 2,600 mangrove saplings were planted along the banks of the Khor Kalba lagoon. Volunteers and citizens joined this monumental effort, symbolizing a collective commitment to restoring the environment.
WHAT WE HAVE ACHIEVED SO FAR
The Planting Experience: A Community Effort
On a memorable day at Khor Kalba, volunteers, including participants from The Westminster School, Dubai, joined the mangrove planting initiative. A total of 2,000 mangroves were planted in a single day, including the Avicennia marina species, commonly known as the grey mangrove or “Qurm” in Arabic.
The grey mangrove is particularly significant in the UAE due to its historical importance as a source of food, fuel, and building materials. Its resilience against salinity and environmental stress makes it ideal for reforestation efforts in the region.
Erfan Firouzi: A Leader of Change
Erfan Firouzi’s dedication to environmental conservation has earned him recognition as a Platinum Member of the Leaders of Change program by Emirates Nature-WWF. This prestigious accolade, awarded on March 1, 2023, highlights Erfan’s unwavering commitment to mastering environmental challenges, co-creating innovative solutions, and volunteering for nature in impactful ways.
The Leaders of Change program, established by Emirates Nature in association with WWF, empowers individuals across the UAE to actively contribute to the nation’s environmental, sustainability, and conservation goals. As a Platinum Member, Erfan has participated in transformative activities such as training sessions, ideation workshops, and on-ground volunteer efforts, embodying the spirit of a true changemaker.
Erfan’s contributions exemplify the power of civic engagement in addressing global environmental challenges and inspire others to join the movement to protect and preserve our natural world.
Why Mangroves Matter
Mangroves are not just trees; they are critical ecosystems with far-reaching benefits:
Climate Action Heroes
- Mangroves can store up to four times more carbon than tropical forests, making them invaluable in mitigating climate change.
- These ecosystems sequester carbon within the plant and in the sediments beneath them, offering a natural and effective solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Biodiversity Havens
- Mangroves provide shelter and breeding grounds for endangered species, including turtles, sharks, rays, and seabirds.
- By restoring mangroves, we help replenish fish stocks and improve marine biodiversity.
Protecting Communities
- Mangroves act as natural barriers against rising seas, storm surges, and coastal erosion, safeguarding infrastructure and communities.
- Healthy mangroves improve water quality and create opportunities for eco-tourism, supporting local economies.
Key Accomplishments:
- Community Engagement: Citizens and volunteers actively participated in planting activities, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
- Restoration Progress: Over 2,600 saplings planted in Khor Kalba in November 2022 alone, covering 0.3 hectares of coastal land.
- Ecosystem Monitoring: Surveys were conducted to track biodiversity and vegetation health, ensuring that restoration efforts align with scientific goals.
- Education and Awareness: Public awareness campaigns highlighted the significance of mangrove ecosystems and their role in combating climate change.
A Vision for the Future
The Emirates Nature-WWF Mangrove Restoration Program demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. By partnering with global and local stakeholders, the program ensures that restoration efforts are grounded in science, community involvement, and long-term planning.
Mangroves: Guardians of Our Future
Mangroves are nature’s protectors, offering hope in the face of climate change. As we plant and nurture these resilient trees, we are not just restoring ecosystems—we are restoring balance to our planet.
The collective efforts at Khor Kalba and other sites across the UAE reflect a unified vision: to ensure that the next generation inherits a thriving, sustainable world. As the Guardians of the Coast, mangroves remind us of nature’s ability to heal and the power of human collaboration in making that healing possible.
Let’s continue to work together, hand in hand with nature, to secure a brighter and more resilient future for all.
