Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi, TotalEnergies to partner on conservation and restoration of coastal ecosystems

ManamaIn line with the Year of Sustainability and the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) is partnering with TotalEnergies to launch a programme of conservation and restoration of coastal ecosystems to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The project will involve innovative technology and state-of-the-art restoration solutions, including ROOT - three-dimensional models that biomimic the root system of mangrove trees. These models aim to play a role similar to the roots of mangrove trees in mitigating currents, resisting wave action, and reducing beach erosion. In addition to attracting invertebrates and fish, the models will enhance the marine environment's biodiversity. Drones and other technological advancements will be used to enhance the restoration's success rates, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM). The outcome and achievements of the study developed as part of this partnership will form part of the reporting process for the UN Sustainable Developme nt Goal 14: "Life under water". Samir Oumer said that the project will assess seasonal status and health of Abu Dhabi's costal ecosystems, analysing carbon sequestration rates and developing restoration guidelines which will be applicable to local and regional coastal Blue Carbon ecosystems. "This aligns with one of our foundation's pilar "Climate, Coastal areas and Ocean". Furthermore, our commitment to the protection of our host region's environment is illustrated by our project ROOT, an innovative and biomimetic solution for mangrove restoration," Oumer added. The project will also include details on the seasonal status and health assessments of coastal ecosystems following international best practices by sampling and analysing the rate of carbon sequestration of coastal habitats in Abu Dhabi. Furthermore, restoration guidelines will be developed for stakeholders, consultants, corporate entities, and research communities which will be applicable to local and regional coastal Blue Carbon ecosystems. So urce: Bahrain News Agency