Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
As the world grapples with rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns, climate resilience becomes a high-stakes challenge. Abu Dhabi is stepping up efforts to protect its water, soil, and unique ecosystems through a combination of technology, scientific research, and community engagement.
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has led the development of a comprehensive Climate Change Adaptation Plan for the Environment Sector (2025–2050), designed to safeguard the emirate's most vulnerable natural resources and build resilience for future generations.
Aletihad spoke to EAD for a closer look at the priorities guiding this long-term climate adaptation strategy.
The Agency has earmarked 142 projects to be implemented over the next 25 years, including 86 high-priority projects set to be launched within the next five years.
Given Abu Dhabi's arid climate and limited freshwater resources, safeguarding groundwater is identified as a top priority.
Immediate actions laid out include systematic monitoring of saltwater intrusion along coastal aquifers and expanded use of treated sewage effluent for irrigation, in addition to deploying advanced technologies for real-time monitoring and early warning systems for over-extraction, salinity spikes or contamination events.
"These initiatives are designed to address threats such as saltwater intrusion, over-extraction, and pollution, ensuring the long-term sustainability of Abu Dhabi's water resources," EAD told Aletihad.
Soil health, vital for food security and ecosystem stability, is also a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's climate resilience.
EAD's strategy includes drone-assisted reforestation, smart grazing techniques, and soil amendments to enhance fertility and water retention.
GPS-based livestock management systems and expanded soil quality monitoring are being deployed to prevent overgrazing, track salinity, and address erosion, providing a more resilient foundation for agriculture and natural ecosystems alike.
The Agency pointed out that Abu Dhabi's unique biodiversity is under threat from habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. To counter this, the plan is prioritising the restoration of key ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, while expanding protected terrestrial and marine areas.
EAD is applying artificial intelligence, remote sensing and genomic tools to monitor species populations and ecosystem health. These data-driven approaches offer real-time insights that support evidence-based decision-making and adaptive management.
The plan stresses that climate adaptation is a collective effort. Residents, academics, and the private sector are actively involved through consultations, citizen science initiatives, and educational programs.
EAD pointed out that platforms like Enviroportal provide open access to climate data and progress reports, fostering transparency and shared responsibility.
To ensure accountability, the plan sets out Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) across environmental and strategic priorities, reviewed every five years.
These include targets for reducing groundwater abstraction, increasing water reuse, and improving soil organic matter.
