‘Buthoor Al Bahrain’ Campaign Promotes Green Spaces and Afforestation Across the Kingdom

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), in collaboration with Bahrain's Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, is actively driving sustainable urban development through its ongoing ‘Buthoor Al Bahrain’ (Seeds of Bahrain) campaign. This initiative seeks to support national efforts to increase vegetation cover, combat climate change, and enhance the quality of life for all residents in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The campaign engages directly with communities throughout the country, visiting public parks and green spaces to raise environmental awareness. Through its educational outreach, the campaign highlights the benefits of afforestation, distributes saplings to residents, and encourages community involvement in caring for green spaces. These activities are coordinated in partnership with municipal councils, with support from the Capital Municipality and three other local municipalities to oversee tree distribution and planting efforts.

Recently, the ‘Buthoor Al Bahrain’ team visited several key locations, including Arad Doha Park, Barbar Park, A'ali Walkway, and Busaiteen Garden. During these visits, campaign members interacted with community residents, emphasizing their vital role in preserving and enhancing public green spaces.

Dr. Sayed Shubbar Al-Wadaei, Chairman of the Northern Municipal Council, praised the campaign for its impact on raising environmental consciousness. "The ‘Seeds of Bahrain’ campaign plays a crucial role in engaging citizens and residents to participate in the greening of our communities," said Dr. Al-Wadaei. He further highlighted the successful distribution of saplings at Barbar Park and noted that the campaign will continue its efforts across the Northern Governorate.

Al-Wadaei also confirmed that the council would maintain its collaboration with the campaign, working alongside the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to achieve sustainable development goals in the region.

Dr. Fernanda Lonardoni, Head of the UN-Habitat Programme in Bahrain, underscored the campaign's broader vision: "By connecting with grassroots communities, we aim to promote sustainable urban living and instill a sense of environmental responsibility. The simple act of distributing trees symbolizes our larger mission of fostering sustainable urban environments."

Aligned with Bahrain’s National Afforestation Plan, which seeks to double the number of trees by 2035, the ‘Seeds of Bahrain’ campaign continues to make strides in supporting Bahrain’s environmental objectives. The campaign will visit various parks and public spaces across the Kingdom in the coming months, encouraging residents to get involved. Interested individuals can stay updated on future tree distribution events by following the campaign’s announcements.

This green initiative is not just about planting trees; it reflects a long-term commitment to ensuring a healthier, more sustainable Bahrain for future generations.