More natural habitats will be protected

ABU DHABI // The UAE will make greater strides towards eco-tourism while expanding its areas of special protection, the Minister of Climate Change and Environment said yesterday.

Even as the country is developing swiftly, it has been working to preserve nature while maximising the value of its natural resources, said Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, ahead of World Environment Day today.

“The UAE has created natural areas, developed hundreds of natural sites, established tourist resorts around the most important natural and historical areas within urban development plans, and invested in promoting eco- tourism,” he said.

There are 43 official protected areas that span more than 14 per cent of the UAE’s territory, which exceeds the target set in the National Strategy for Biodiversity 2015-2021. The theme of this year’s World Environment Day is “Connecting People with Nature”. It represents human capital, the cornerstone of development, awareness of the importance of living in harmony with nature, and of using natural resources in a sustainable manner. “The country has endeavoured to provide appropriate protection to many areas of land and sea that are environmentally sensitive or historically significant so that they can withstand natural and developmental pressures and challenges,” said Dr Al Zeyoudi.

He also stressed the importance of raising awareness among the youth to preserve the environment and natural resources.