Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Environment
Environmental awareness is increasing at the macro level in the UAE, due in no small part
to the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed, who was posthumously named a 'Champion of the
Earth' by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) in 2005. With his efforts in wildlife
preservation, such as Sir Bani Yas Island, which operates a breeding program for en-
dangered Arabian wildlife species, as well as the ban on hunting with guns decades ago,
Sheikh Zayed foresaw the acute threats to the endangered native species of the region.
In Dubai, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) comprises 225 sq km (5%
of the area of the Dubai emirate) and integrates both a national park and the superluxe Al-
Maha Desert Resort & Spa. One of DDCR's most notable achievements is the successful
breeding of the endangered scimitar-horned oryx. Migrating birds and flamingos are the
darlings of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, at the head of Dubai Creek within view of
Burj Khalifa and the high-rises on Sheikh Zayed Rd. Sharjah has a successful breeding
centre at the Sharjah Desert Park, as does Al Ain Zoo, which is being expanded into a
wildlife park with a heavy focus on sustainability.
In terms of going green at the micro level, much work needs to be done in the UAE.
Water and energy wastage (nearly all water comes from desalination plants) and littering
are major issues. However, recycling bins are increasingly popping up at such places as
malls and bus and metro stations. Meanwhile, public-transport systems are proliferating.
Dubai Metro inaugurated in 2009 and other emirates, such as Sharjah, have recently intro-
duced public bus networks. Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, the most ambitious environmental
project is taking shape: when completed, Masdar City (
Click here
)
will be the world's first
carbon-neutral community.
For more information, check the website of the UAE's leading environmental organisa-
