Planting for the Planet
An exclusive mangrove planting session
ABOUT THE ACTIVITY
About the project
The “Restoring mangrove ecosystems of the UAE” project uses an ecosystem-based approach and is run through the “Priceless Planet Coalition”, an international initiative implemented by Mastercard in collaboration with Conservation International (CI) and the World Resources Institute (WRI), which aims to plant 100 million trees by 2025 to restore global forest ecosystems.
In the UAE, Emirates Nature-WWF has selected different sites to plant mangroves, one of them being Khor Al Yeefrah, in Umm Al Quwain. Khor Al Yeefrah is home to dense mangrove forests, rich biodiversity, as well as kayaking activities near beautiful lagoon-side beaches. The area is also the breeding ground for the largest colony of the Socotra Cormorant bird in the Gulf region. As such, this area is renown to be rich for its oldest and most genetically diverse ecosystems and biodiversity.
HOW VOLUNTEERS WILL HELP
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
From Thursday 16 March to Tuesday 21 March 2023 (every afternoon) over six consecutive days, Emirates Nature-WWF will be organizing outreach and planting activities, which volunteers will be able to come and join.
The programme includes:
- Introduction to the marine ecosystems, blue carbon and the importance of mangroves by our experts;
- Exciting and educational activities such as scavenger hunt where volunteers will be looking out for different species of wildlife native to mangrove forests (e.g., try to find footprints) or bird identification using a bird guide;
- Awareness about the cultural and ecological importance of mangroves, the threats they face and how we can work together to ensure their resilience;
- Planting of mangrove saplings and adding your name on them!
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
This type of fieldwork is physically challenging, it will be outdoors. Willingness to get dirty and have fun is vital as it gets really muddy in the mangroves!
Please note that this trip is not suitable for children under the age of 7. However, children can only attend upon requests and must be accompanied by adults. For such requests, please reach out to [email protected] .
What is the Impact?
- Contribute to the UAE’s pledge to plant 100 million mangroves by 2030 and support national climate change mitigation and adaptation goals.
- Help to restore local biodiversity. Mangroves are home to endangered species of turtles, seabirds, sharks and rays.
- Raise public awareness about the importance of mangroves, the project and inspire civil society to play an active role in safeguarding these essential ecosystems.
- Contribute to the value of the ecosystem amongst the community.
- Create opportunities for eco-tourism.
Session Partner
4 Reviews
I truly enjoyed planting mangroves in Khor Kalba with breathtaking views of the sunset and mountains. I did not wear gloves as I decided to connect to Nature with bare hands while planting mangroves. Make sure you wear rubber shoes (not flip-flops and not your trainers). Arabella is very knowledgeable, a Star, and passionate about sharing her knowledge with all of us. She is truly an advocate of the Nature. Thank you!
Nice, beneficial event. It's great to be that close with mangrove trees and see the amount of species living there. I advise you to wear cloth gloves to protect your hands from any possible cuts while covering the small plants with soil.
Wonderfully-planned event led by Arabella highlighting the importance of mangroves in carbon sequestration. Also a breathtaking location, unlike anything I've seen in the UAE. Looking forward to more projects on nature-based solutions to climate change!
Please note that events may be cancelled or rescheduled due to updated safety guidelines from the government. We will try our best to keep you informed of any changes as early as possible. Thank you for your understanding and support.