MoEW updates National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2014-2021

Abu Dhabi (WAM): Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, has announced the completion of the project to update the National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2014 2021. In a statement released to mark "World Day to Combat Desertification," on June 17th, the Minister said that in line with the U.A.E. s Vision 2021 and strategy to combat desertification, the U.A.E. is committed to protecting the natural environment using preventive measures such as reducing carbon emissions and imposing regulatory measures to protect the ecosystem. The strategy aims to increase awareness of issues related to desertification, land degradation and drought, and strengthen the national capacity in the fight against desertification. Such approaches will be used to counteract dangers that arise from the outcome of human activities, poor land management and increasing population, which are having a negative impact on the ecosystem. The Minister said that desertification is not just a national concern but a global problem which is directly affecting the lives of millions of people and is impacting the world’s water and food resources. According to reports from the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, 24 billion tons of fertile soil disappear and about 12 billion hectares of land are lost annually due to desertification and drought, in addition to the 52 percent of agricultural land which faces moderate to severe deterioration. Dr. bin Fahad said that the U.A.E. is working to develop a national strategy to protect its water resources and reduce groundwater depletion through the implementation of agricultural policies that enforce efficient water management practices. One of the U.A.E. s more recent efforts in the fight against desertification is the focus on using modern techniques and relevant scientific research to protect native plants and encourage bio-diversity. Last month, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, issued a Decree establishing six nature reserves in Dubai, a legislation which aims to protect natural habitats and wildlife in the Emirate of Dubai and preserve natural resources in these areas. – Emirates News Agency, WAM