Bahrain strives to preserve wildlife and biodiversity

The Kingdom of Bahrain attaches great importance to the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity, given their value and sustainability in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals and maintaining ecological balance.

This was emphasised by His Highness Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Environment (SCE). His remarks were made on the Gulf Wildlife Day, marked annually on December 30.

Theme

This year’s theme, “A Society in Harmony with Nature for Sustainable Wildlife,” reflects a collective commitment to raising environmental awareness and highlighting ongoing efforts to protect wildlife and its natural habitats. HH Shaikh Abdullah noted that the occasion supports the promotion of sustainability across all segments of society and contributes to adaptation to climate change. He emphasised that the Supreme Council for Environment, in cooperation with national partners from ministries, governmental bodies, private institutions, and civil society organisations, plays a prominent role in conserving wildlife and ensuring its sustainability.

Species

His Highness pointed out that the Kingdom enjoys rich biodiversity, ranging from diverse terrestrial and marine ecosystems to a wide variety of distinctive native species.

HH Shaikh Abdullah explained that Bahrain is making sustained efforts to preserve wildlife biodiversity through a comprehensive framework of legislation and programmes. 

These include wildlife breeding programmes and initiatives to protect endangered species hosted at the Mohammed bin Zayed Natural Reserve, particularly species native to the Arab region; programmes to control harmful invasive alien species, such as the common myna bird; and ecosystem restoration initiatives to combat desertification. These restoration efforts include afforestation programmes, the national tree-planting plan, and the achievement of the national goal to double the number of mangrove trees.