The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has taken flight with a remarkable double win. The agency was recently honored with two prestigious Champion Plus Awards by the Convention on the Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) in recognition of its unwavering commitment to the protection of migratory species.
The awards acknowledge EAD's significant contributions to two crucial conservation programs: "Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa & Eurasia" and "Conservation of Dugongs and their Habitats." This recognition extends from 2024 to 2027, solidifying EAD's ongoing dedication to these vital initiatives.
The celebration of EAD's achievements comes at a particularly opportune moment. The UAE has declared 2024 an extension of the "Year of Sustainability," highlighting the nation's unwavering focus on environmental preservation. EAD's double win echoes this commitment, demonstrating the agency's leadership role on the global stage of migratory species conservation.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, expressed her profound gratitude towards the UAE's leadership for their unwavering support and vision, which she highlighted as instrumental in securing these prestigious awards. Dr. Al Dhaheri emphasized that these accolades serve as a powerful validation of Abu Dhabi's preeminence in migratory species conservation efforts.
She further noted that the year 2024, designated as an extension of the Year of Sustainability, serves as a timely reminder of the paramount importance of environmental conservation across all its dimensions. Dr. Al Dhaheri reiterated EAD's unwavering commitment to fostering international cooperation in migratory species conservation, underscoring the agency's dedication to forging and sustaining partnerships on local, regional, and international levels.
The EAD's Champion Plus Awards for migratory bird of prey conservation acknowledge the agency's longstanding efforts in supporting the development and implementation of the CMS Raptors Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This crucial agreement serves as a framework for international collaboration aimed at safeguarding migratory birds of prey across Africa and Eurasia.
The second Champion Plus Award recognizes EAD's vital contributions to the "Conservation of Dugongs and their Habitats" MoU. Dugongs, also known as sea cows, are gentle marine mammals facing significant threats due to habitat loss and human activity. The EAD's leadership in this domain plays a critical role in ensuring the long-term survival of these vulnerable creatures.
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi's remarkable double win at the CMS COP14 signifies the agency's unwavering dedication to the preservation of migratory species. EAD's commitment serves as an inspiration for other organizations and nations to join forces in safeguarding the planet's incredible biodiversity.