The Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah(EPAA) has organized the 11th edition of the Al-Muntather 2 Reserve Afforestation Campaign in the AlBataeh region of Sharjah, with widespread participation from volunteers representing various government entities and students.
More than 120 employees from the EPAA participated in the campaign, alongside over 100 governmental institutions and entities. Additionally, 70 schools took part, with more than 2,173 students attending. The initiative included the planting of over 5,000 seedlings of native trees such as Al Ghaf and Sidr, which are essential ecological assets playing a vital role in enhancing biodiversity and promoting environmental sustainability.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability and Afforestation
Her Excellency Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, emphasized that the campaign aligns with the Sharjah’s efforts to promote environmental sustainability and afforestation, in accordance with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. His Highness has consistently underscored the importance of preserving the environment and biodiversity.
“The EPAA continues to implement pioneering environmental initiatives aimed at increasing green spaces and fostering a culture of afforestation and environmental responsibility among individuals and institutions, reinforcing Sharjah’s leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development,” she stated.
She added: “Our efforts extend beyond tree planting; they also focus on raising environmental awareness and instilling sustainability principles within society. The selection of Al Ghaf and Sidr trees, known for their resilience in the region’s climate, reflects our commitment to rehabilitating natural areas and reserves while ensuring ecological balance. Additionally, this initiative contributes to improving air quality and conserving natural resources in line with Sharjah’s environmental strategy.”
Her Excellency further highlighted EPAA’s ongoing environmental campaigns in collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of natural resources and environmental protection for future generations. She stressed that afforestation is one of the most effective solutions to combat climate change and commended the efforts of key partners and supporters of the initiative.
Extensive Community Participation
The campaign witnessed significant participation from government institutions and the educational sector, with volunteers actively contributing to planting seedlings in a sustainable natural environment. This initiative strengthens the values of giving and environmental responsibility, and participants expressed their pride in being part of an initiative that supports environmental conservation efforts in Sharjah.
The Importance of Planting Native Trees
Native trees such as Al Ghaf and Sidr play a crucial role in sustaining ecosystems due to their adaptability to desert climates. These trees provide vital habitats for various wildlife species and contribute to maintaining ecological balance in arid environments.
Al-Muntather 2 Reserve, located in the Al-Bataeh region along the Sharjah-Mleiha road, spans an area of 9 square kilometers. Despite its desert nature, the reserve is rich in trees, grazing lands, native flora, and diverse wildlife. The reserve has the capacity to accommodate the planting of over 1.25 million Al Ghaf and Sidr trees, further supporting its role as a vital ecological sanctuary.