As part of the Year of Sustainability and in preparation for the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment concluded a workshop to develop the national strategy for the sustainability of the marine environment and fisheries.

The aim is to review national efforts to protect and manage the marine environment and fisheries, including aquaculture in addition to developing future programs and projects to enhance the sustainable development of marine ecosystems and living water resources.

H.E Dr Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Biodiversity and Marine Life Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, opened the two-day workshop.

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The workshop saw broad participation from more than 40 participants from municipalities, specialized environmental bodies, federal and local government departments, universities, port authorities, and a large number of scientific experts in environmental and marine sciences, scientists, and researchers.

The participating entities included the Ministry of Defence, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, Dubai Municipality, Fujairah Environment Authority, Abu Dhabi Ports, Ajman Municipality and Planning Department, Sharjah Fisheries Authority, Ras Al Khaimah Environment Protection and Development Authority, Umm Al Quwain Municipality, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), UAE University, and the National Space Science and Technology Center.

The workshop aimed to identify the national efforts led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in the field of management and protection of marine and coastal ecosystems in the UAE, evaluate the current status of the marine environment and various initiatives and projects.

H.E Al Hammadi said: "The efforts based on constructive cooperation with our strategic partners from specialized environmental entities, relevant government departments and the private sector will have a great impact in developing the national strategy for the sustainability of the marine environment and fisheries.

"In order to preserve our national marine wealth and work on its sustainability, we seek through the workshop to evaluate the current situation regarding the management of marine and coastal ecosystems, within a comprehensive framework that includes environmental, economic, social, and regulatory aspects."

He added: "Based on an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, and available opportunities, a strategic framework will be developed from a future vision and key guidelines that respond to the challenges facing the marine environment and fisheries and global trends for the governance of marine ecosystem management.

"Its goals are to rely on developmental economic patterns with high added value, considering the marine environment's specificity and fragility and the challenges of preserving the marine environment and fisheries."

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