Shaping Tomorrow's Environmental Leaders: EAD and Emirates Nature-WWF Launch 5-Year Citizen Science Strategy to Ignite Youth Action Through Connect with Nature
Citizen Science and environmental stewardship to be integrated across schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra Region, empowering UAE youth to participate in hands-on conservation field trips
As part of the Year of Community the Connect with Nature's new school Field Trip Series launched on UAE National Environment Day
Abu Dhabi: As part of the Year of the Community, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Emirates Nature-WWF, the founding partners of the Connect with Nature programme, announced the launch of a new 5-year strategy (2025-2029). The strategy aims to empower a new generation of young leaders in environmental conservation by promoting Citizen Science.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, and Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emirates Nature-WWF, to renew the long-standing partnership between the two parties on the details of implementing the new strategy.
The new strategy builds on the tremendous success of the Connect with Nature programme, which has reached more than 2.5 million youth since its launch in 2019. It connects youth with nature and provides students in public and private schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra region with the opportunity to participate in field activities that promote environmental conservation and Citizen Science. It also underscores a steadfast commitment to inspiring and empowering young people in society. The programme continues to engage youth, particularly younger audiences, providing them with opportunities to cultivate their potential and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.
Commenting on the launch of the strategy, Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri said, 'The new 5-year strategy represents an important stage in our journey towards promoting environmental responsibility in society and preparing leaders capable of effecting environmental change. By integrating Citizen Science and practical experiences in environmental conservation into school programs and activities, we are working to create an ecosystem that combines knowledge and action to achieve a green economy, in line with the UAE Vision 2030. Our partnership with Emirates Nature-WWF provides an opportunity to strategically expand the scope of the program, ensuring that our combined efforts and cooperation protect our natural heritage and advance a green and sustainable future for future generations.'
The new Connect with Nature Field Trip Series for schools will accommodate 2,000 students annually, offering participants a unique opportunity to work alongside conservationists and environmental experts as citizen scientists. From venturing knee-deep into muddy mangroves to measure the growth of new saplings to kayaking across the nation's vibrant coastal areas and shaping environmental policies, these field trips are designed to inspire a deeper appreciation for nature while also contributing to conservation impact.
Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director of Environment Information Science and Outreach Management said: 'At EAD, we recognise that the path to a sustainable future starts with education and active participation. The 5-year strategy for Connect with Nature is a testament to our unwavering commitment to equipping young minds with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to become future environmental leaders. By incorporating citizen science and conservation into school programmes, we are fostering a generation that not only understands the importance of protecting our ecosystems but is also empowered to take meaningful action. We are confident that their contributions will be instrumental in realising our shared sustainability vision.'
Laila Mostafa Abdullatif said: 'Connect with Nature was founded with a simple vision of inspiring young people to experience, celebrate and safeguard nature in the UAE. Over five years, we have seen firsthand how time spent in nature – learning about the environment and actively protecting it – has had a profound impact on the nation's youth, motivating them to pursue green careers and advocate for sustainability on the local and global stage. During this period, the programme has inspired more than 14,000 youth to volunteer over 32,000 hours of work for the environment, through 250 citizen science events and activities. Today, with the launch of our new five-year strategy, we are excited to inspire similar connections amongst school students and nature and welcome our newest changemakers to the movement.'
The Connect with Nature Field Trips Series is open to students aged 9 to 18 across public and private schools in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra Region. Parents, teachers and educators can learn more about the programme and school field trips at the Connect with Nature website.
About Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD)
Established in 1996, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is committed to protecting and enhancing air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of our desert and marine ecosystem. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, we embrace international best practice, innovation and hard work to institute effective policy measures. We seek to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of our national agenda.
About Emirates Nature-WWF:
Emirates Nature-WWF is an environmental NGO charity established to conserve the United Arab Emirates' natural heritage and build a future where people and nature thrive. The organization was
founded in 2001 by our Honorary Founder and President, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Governing Board of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, as a legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed's vision for the United Arab Emirates.
For two decades, Emirates Nature-WWF has been a prominent and active partner in environmental conservation in the MENA region. We work in association with WWF, one of the world's largest and most respected independent conservation organizations.
As a local conservation think-tank and pioneers of the 'Leaders of Change' programme, the world's first- ever digital membership platform for the environment – we empower, convene and mobilize civil society, government entities and businesses to support the UAE's sustainability agenda and deliver transformative impact at scale for the benefit of people and planet alike.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Mid East Info
21-07-2025
- Mid East Info
Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme Has Returned a Total of 2,355 Falcons to the Wild - Middle East Business News and Information
Entering its Fourth Decade with the Recent Release of 81 Falcons in Kazakhstan, Abu Dhabi,July 2025: With the release of 81 falcons in the Republic of Kazakhstan in May 2025, the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme has now entered its fourth decade. The recent release activity brings the total number of Saker and Peregrine falcons returned to the wild since the programme's inception to 2,355. The programme aims to increase falcon populations and protect them from a range of threats contributing to their endangered status such as expanding human activities that encroach on natural habitats, unsustainable breeding practices and climate change. For the ninth consecutive year, the programme saw 53 Peregrine falcons and 28 Saker falcons released in Kazakhstan – marking's the initiative's fourth decade of operation since it was established in 1995. The falcons' natural migratory range includes parts of Kazakhstan, Russia, China, Mongolia and neighbouring countries in a region characterised by rugged mountains and vast plains that offer ideal habitats rich in prey. Prior to release, all falcons underwent comprehensive veterinary checks, intensive training and were fitted with identification leg bands and implanted with electronic microchips. Ten falcons (five of each species) were equipped with solar-powered satellite-tracking devices to monitor survival rates, dispersion and migration routes. The data collected will be used to support the ongoing development of rehabilitation, training and release methods. H.E. Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of EAD Board of Directors, and Vice Chairman of the International Fund for Houbara Conservation, extended his sincere gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, Chairman of EAD Board of Directors, for his patronage and continuous support of the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme. His Excellency emphasised that the programme has become one of the world's leading initiatives for the restoration of endangered wildlife species. It stands as a continuation of the legacy of the UAE's Founding Father and a testament to Abu Dhabi's and the UAE's global leadership in nature conservation and the protection of biodiversity, which is essential for the wellbeing of both the environment and humanity. H.E. Al Bowardi commended the successful partnerships that have contributed to the programme's achievements. In addition to the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, key partners include the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Mohamed bin Zayed Raptor Conservation Fund, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation and the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. He also acclaimed the support provided by the Office of the Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs and the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the Republic of Kazakhstan. His Excellency expressed his sincere appreciation to the Committee on Forestry and Wildlife of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the relevant Kazakhstani authorities for facilitating the work of the joint team in implementing this program. About the Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme: Marking Its Fourth Decade The Vision and the Founder: The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may his soul rest in peace) was deeply connected to nature and imbued with the rich heritage of his forefathers. From an early age, he recognised the growing environmental challenges posed by development and urban expansion, and took proactive measures to halt harmful activities such as the use of firearms in hunting. His deep passion for falconry inspired him to preserve its sustainable traditions, ensuring that falcons, their prey and natural habitats would endure for future generations. Sheikh Zayed launched globally recognised environmental initiatives as early as the 1960s. History records his remarkable success in saving the Arabian Oryx from extinction, along with his direct enforcement of laws banning the hunting of gazelles, birds, rabbitscand other wildlife. During this period, he also spearheaded the planting of millions of trees to enhance the wellbeing of both people and wildlife. His deep environmental values were brought to life through projects and programmes that had a lasting impact on the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of traditional, sustainable practices. Among his key decisions was the transition in 1993 toward the use of captive-bred falcons in response to the declining numbers of wild Saker falcons. From the very beginning, Sheikh Zayed insisted on releasing a significant portion of his falcons back into the wild after the hunting season, despite the ease of keeping them year-round thanks to advancements in falconry techniques and improved economic conditions. He remained committed to this sustainable practice, which aligned closely with his natural instincts and environmental awareness. In 1995, he directed the establishment of a programme to set up the mechanisms, procedures and standardised protocols required to fulfill the ultimate goal of falcon release: returning strong, healthy and native falcons to their natural environment at the right time and in the right place – all equipped to survive, compete, and thrive. The Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme embodies the profound human values of gratitude and responsibility, allowing falconers to feel a deep sense of purpose in giving back to nature what they borrow from it. It also reinforces the vital balance between wildlife and natural resources, which falconers depend on to continue their cherished cultural practice. Planning and Implementation: Preparations for the programme begin before the end of the annual falconry season. The release date is determined with great precision to align with the falcons' migration to their breeding grounds. Release sites are carefully selected from an array of safe locations situated along known migratory routes. Before being released, the falcons undergo an intensive pre-release programme that includes veterinary supervision and medical examinations to ensure they are free of bacterial, parasitic or viral infections. The selected falcons are subjected to daily training exercises to improve their fitness over several weeks. During this period, they are fed a special diet to increase their body weight, enhancing their chances of survival during the critical two-week adaptation period after release. Falcons that are not ready for release are kept at the hospital for rehabilitation and will be reintroduced into the wild in subsequent years. The programme ensures that only falcons of pure wild origin and in excellent health are released. Each falcon is assigned a unique serial number, which is placed on a leg band and embedded in a subcutaneous microchip, which can be read using a specialised scanner to identify the bird if it is recaptured. The falcons are transported according to a meticulous protocol that prioritises their safety and comfort, while ensuring their timely arrival for release. During transit, the birds are sprayed with water to help them remain calm and regulate body temperature. Upon arrival, they undergo another health check, are weighed and are examined for signs of dehydration or broken feathers. Only falcons that are fully ready are released, giving them the best possible chance to return safely to the wild. Hundreds of miles of terrain are surveyed to find suitable habitats where falcons can immediately begin relying on themselves for survival, including hunting. These sites may be near water sources, mountains or open plains. Prior to release, the field team re-surveys the selected area to ensure it is free from threats, checks wind direction, and looks for the presence of competing raptors. These measures maximise the falcons' chances of survival in the wild. Tracking and Monitoring: Modern technology has played a vital role in tracking the movements of falcons after their release, helping to assess their ability to survive and adapt to life in the wild. A selected sample of falcons is equipped with solar-powered satellite-tracking devices, with an operational lifespan of three to five years. These devices provide essential data, including location, altitude and body temperature. The data is transmitted daily via satellite and filtered before being sent by email to the National Avian Research Centre of the International Fund for Houbara Conservation in Abu Dhabi. Through this process, the programme has successfully gathered accurate, long-term data by tracking falcons well beyond their release. Lessons Learned: We have learned a great deal about falcon breeding grounds and migration routes – spanning seas, valleys, reefs, mountain slopes and plateaus – from the far reaches of Asia and Europe to Africa, through the Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula. We have also learned how to collaborate effectively with countries, partners and local communities to achieve the programme's noble goals. This initiative has taken us to remote and distant regions of the world – places we might never have reached were it not for our deep commitment to ensuring that our falcons successfully return to safe habitats with suitable climates and abundant prey. About Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi EAD: Established in 1996, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is committed to protecting and enhancing air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of our desert and marine ecosystem. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, we embrace international best practice, innovation and hard work to institute effective policy measures. We seek to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of our national agenda.
Mid East Info
17-07-2025
- Mid East Info
Emirates Post Issues Commemorative Stamps to Celebrate ‘Year of Community' - Middle East Business News and Information
Emirates Post, the UAE's official postal services provider, has issued a new set of commemorative stamps titled 'Year of Community', in line with the declaration by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, designating 2025 as the 'Year of Community', under the slogan 'Hand in Hand'. The stamps highlight the values championed by this national initiative, which seeks to strengthen social cohesion and promote shared responsibility among all who call the UAE home. This issuance underscores Emirates Post's commitment to documenting the nation's milestones and translating the leadership's visionary directives into tangible initiatives that reinforce national pride and showcase the UAE's role as a global model of coexistence and solidarity. The stamps' design features a series of illustrations that portray the UAE's timeless values, capture the richness of traditions woven within the nation's social fabric, and highlight the strength of family bonds and community solidarity – core principles at the heart of the 'Year of Community' initiative. Through these commemorative stamps, Emirates Post reaffirms its role as a trusted partner and cultural ambassador, highlighting national achievements and sharing UAE's story with the world.
Mid East Info
08-07-2025
- Mid East Info
Emirates Post collaborates with Dream Dubai to launch AED100,000 prize campaign to celebrate UAE's Year of Community
The initiative aims to highlight the role of connection, mobility, and inclusion within communities. Until August 01, 2025, customers who ship parcels worth AED 25 or more at any Emirates Post branch or kiosk will be entered automatically into the prize draw. Emirates Post, in partnership with Dream Dubai, has launched a nationwide promotional prize campaign to transform routine shipments into opportunities for recognition and rewards. This campaign is part of a broader, ongoing collaboration between the two entities aimed at engaging communities and enriching public experiences through purposeful initiatives. Launched in celebration of the UAE's Year of Community, the initiative highlights Emirates Post's commitment to enhancing customer experience and fostering meaningful connections. Running till August 01, 2025, the campaign invites customers across the Emirates to stay connected with loved ones by shipping parcels through any Emirates Post branch or kiosk. Each qualifying shipment of AED 25 or more earns customers automatic entry into the prize draw, with a chance to win a grand prize of AED 100,000, to be awarded on August 02, 2025. The offer is also valid for new subscribers to the P.O. Box service, with entries open exclusively to first-time users. Rooted in the spirit of community, the campaign celebrates the vital role that connection, mobility, and inclusion play in everyday life – values that are core to both Emirates Post and Dream Dubai. By transforming everyday shipments into meaningful connections, this initiative reflects how collaboration between national institutions and community partners can deliver real, lasting value to people across the UAE – one shipment at a time.
