Abu Dhabi: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is actively encouraging community participation in environmental volunteering as a core strategy to aid environmental preservation and combat climate change. The agency has introduced four distinctive volunteer programmes designed to empower community members to engage in environmental conservation, ensuring a sustainable future for both present and upcoming generations.
According to Emirates News Agency, Rasha Ali Al Madfai, Acting Director of the Environmental Awareness Department at EAD, emphasized the agency’s commitment to fostering environmental responsibility across various societal segments, especially among youth. The agency has introduced several volunteer initiatives aimed at promoting positive environmental behaviors and enhancing individual capabilities, knowledge, and awareness about the significance of contributing to environmental preservation. These efforts are facilitated through the ‘Naha’ platform, which aims to transform intentions into
impactful actions by offering opportunities for community involvement in sustainable practices.
The Murshed Youth Rangers Programme, in its second phase, focuses on engaging young individuals in environmental protection efforts. Sponsored by TotalEnergies, the programme recently completed a volunteering phase where participants contributed 300 hours in Jubail Mangrove Park and supported field trips during the 12th World Environmental Education Congress. This initiative, in collaboration with the Emirates Schools Establishment and the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, provides leadership development opportunities for youth aged 14-17, enhancing their understanding of the role of rangers in ecosystem protection.
The Green Citizen Programme is aimed at citizens and residents passionate about environmental work, offering virtual meetings and clean-up campaigns to engage volunteers. Approximately 68 volunteers attended a virtual meeting to discuss roles, responsibilities, and the 2024 plan, while
281 individuals participated in five clean-up campaigns under this programme.
Meanwhile, the Green Experts Programme focuses on establishing a network of environmental experts. With 287 participants, the programme facilitates the exchange of knowledge and expertise through scientific bulletins, lectures, and ‘Ask an Expert’ sessions. Experts contribute by conducting workshops, reviewing reports, and training volunteers, supporting EAD’s projects and initiatives.
Since its inception in 2015, the Green Youth Majlis has empowered young people aged 18-35 to actively participate in environmental action. The council, with over 650 members, convenes quarterly to address environmental challenges and promote innovative solutions. Members have dedicated significant volunteer hours to various initiatives, including the World Environmental Education Congress and community-driven projects like the single-use plastics policy implementation.