Marine Conservation Forum to focus on preservation of turtles, coral reef

The four- day event, organised by the Emirates Wildlife Society – World Wide Fund for Nature (EWS-WWF), under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water, is being attended by from GCC countries along with representatives of Yemen and Iran.

Dr Salem Al Dhahiri, senior representative of the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water and Director General of Federal Environmental Agency, said that “it is a matter of great pride for us that the UAE has been chosen as the venue for the Marine Conservation Forum, as it reinforces the message of our country being a strong supporter of environmental initiatives”.

Dr Susan Lieberman, director of WWF – International Species Programme, who is in Abu Dhabi for the Forum, revealed the importance of protecting marine life. “Coral reefs provide close to US$30 billion each year in goods and services from tourism, fisheries and stopping coastal erosion”, said Dr Lieberman. She added that coral reefs occupy less than one quarter of 1 pc of the marine environment, but are home to more than 25 pc of all known marine fish species.

“Coral reefs are among the planet’s richest habitats in terms of biodiversity. They are also the most vulnerable to disturbance – both natural and human induce. Roughly one-fifth of coral reefs worldwide are already considered damaged beyond repair, with another two-thirds under serious threat”, pointed the WWF director.

On UAE coast too the coral reefs suffered degradation, but it is not the only issue affecting the marine life here. The green turtle, once popular in the Gulf, has become increasingly vulnerable because of restricted and limited habitats. Marine Conservation Forum intends to raise awareness about these issues and increase the cooperation between the Gulf countries.