ECO Spot targeted for Conservation Project in Abu Dhabi
One of the capital’s key biodiversity areas will be getting an environment  boost with the lunch of the third phase of a sustainability initiative. As part of its Al Wathba Wetland Reserve Habitat Rehabilitation program, the environment agency – Abu Dhabi  (EAD) will plant 2500 native trees over the next two months at Al Wathba site in a bid to increase vegetation and provide a natural barrier from noise pollution. EAD founded in 1998 by the Late Shiekh Zayed, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve comprise five  square kilometers of wetlands, salt flats and dunes, and his home to various species of wildlife including flamingos, reptiles, small mammals and insects as well as being a stop off for migratory birds. The global of the rehabilitation project, which was established in 2017
is to protect and encourage  the reserve’s unique biodiversity and improve habitat and vegetation for it’s animal population. While cementing its role as an environment and education site.
The first two phase of the initiative included the design and installation of an irrigation system with in the reserve. Among the trees to be planted in the third phase of the initiative will be Ethel, locally known as tarfa, which is a hardy shrub that can survive in extreme heat and saline conditions. As well as ghaf, ghada and arak trees. Commenting on the project, AED secretary General Razan Al Mubarak highlight the site’s status in local conservation. “ this will help contribute to the improvement of the natural habitat within the reserve and strength its role as a Scientific center for bird conservation research, especially migratory birds.
Doctor Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, executive director of the terrestrial and marine biodiversity sector at EAD, explained that protecting the environment is a communal responsibility, “As well all share the same space and we all use the same resources. “ we believe that we depend on the ecosystems and environment to provide us with different services such as food, water, recreational spaces and clean air. Together , we believe that our role to sustain and help the environment to thrive would be stronger with the involvement of the public, and specifically the youth, who will become the future guardians and eco stewards.