The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has launched a series of nationwide initiatives to encourage sustainable community behaviour and environmentally friendly lifestyles, coinciding with World Environment Day on June 5. The campaign aligns with the UAE’s vision for environmental stewardship and stronger community partnerships while reinforcing sustainability as a shared national responsibility rooted in family values.
The initiatives are being implemented under this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Act Now for Climate,” which promotes nature-based solutions to address environmental challenges. Through awareness campaigns and community engagement programmes, the ministry aims to encourage individuals to take practical action in areas such as biodiversity protection, mangrove restoration, urban greening, and food security.
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak said environmental protection remains central to the UAE’s development vision and highlighted the importance of building climate resilience through community participation and sustainable daily practices.
The World Environment Day programme included three major activities: the release of marine turtles into their natural habitat, mangrove planting initiatives, and food safety awareness programmes for senior Emiratis. These activities were carried out in collaboration with national institutions and community volunteers.
According to Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, the ministry has generated significant public engagement over the past three years, involving more than 8,000 volunteers and 5,000 students in environmental activities. During the same period, more than 459,000 trees were planted, 600,000 seedlings and 6.5 million seeds were distributed, and over 4,500 students received climate leadership training. The UAE’s environmental awareness index has reached 89 percent, while the environmental behaviour index stands at 85 percent.
As part of the celebrations, MOCCAE organised a marine turtle release event at the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary in partnership with the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority. The event highlighted the UAE’s efforts to protect endangered marine species and preserve biodiversity while engaging families and children in environmental education.
The ministry also hosted a food safety workshop for senior Emiratis at Thukher Club in Al Khawaneej, Dubai, in partnership with the Community Development Authority. The session focused on food safety practices, sustainability, and public health awareness, while participants received fruit tree seedlings to encourage environmentally responsible practices at home.
In Sharjah, MOCCAE organised a major mangrove planting initiative at Khor Kalba in collaboration with the Environment and Protected Areas Authority. The activity supports the UAE’s goal of planting 100 million mangroves by 2030 and contributes to the country’s commitments under the Mangrove Alliance for Climate, a coalition supported by 47 countries.
MOCCAE said it will continue to launch initiatives that promote environmental awareness, encourage climate action, and strengthen public participation in achieving the UAE’s sustainability goals.
