Source : WAM
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has appointed Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) as the Official Partner of the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative (ADMI) partnership programme. Under the two-year agreement, TAQA will act as the Lead and Exclusive Sponsor for two key environmental initiatives.
The first initiative involves TAQA supporting the launch and implementation of the Mangrove Biodiversity Automated Monitoring programme, an innovative research project introduced under ADMI.
This programme supports the development of the Mangrove Nature Tracking Assistant (MANTA) — the first system of its kind in the Arabian Gulf — which utilises artificial intelligence, advanced technology, ecological monitoring, and community-driven science to study biodiversity in both natural and restored mangrove ecosystems.
The initiative aims to analyse biodiversity within mangrove habitats, with a particular focus on key species such as fish and crabs. These species serve as vital indicators of ecosystem health and stability and help measure the success of habitat restoration efforts.
By providing accurate, real-time data, MANTA enhances the effectiveness of conservation initiatives and environmental planning, supporting informed decision-making to ensure the sustainability of Abu Dhabi’s coastal ecosystems.
TAQA also sponsored the 2025 Marine Turtle Festival organised by EAD. As one of the UAE’s major environmental events, the festival aims to highlight the importance of marine species conservation by releasing rescued and rehabilitated sea turtles back into their natural habitats. It also showcases the agency’s work and that of its partners in protecting marine biodiversity.
Maitha Mohamed Al Hameli, Director of the Marine Biodiversity Division at EAD, said the partnership represents a significant step forward in protecting mangrove ecosystems.
“Through the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative, we are pioneering the use of advanced technologies and ecological research to monitor key species and assess habitat health in real time. Collaborations like this not only strengthen our scientific capabilities, but also create opportunities for global knowledge exchange, citizen science and long-term conservation impact. Together, we are shaping a new era of environmental innovation rooted in evidence and collaboration,” she added.
Noel Aoun, Group Chief Strategy Officer at TAQA, said, “This collaboration highlights the vital role of science, technology, and community engagement in protecting and understanding our natural ecosystems. We look forward to advancing this important work alongside EAD and its partners.”
The Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative aims to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for mangrove conservation, research and innovation. It brings together projects and initiatives focused on protecting coastal ecosystems and advancing nature-based solutions in the emirate. The initiative also provides a platform for regional and international collaboration while encouraging the formation of public-private partnerships.
Since its launch, the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative has brought together eight international partners and 15 local partners.
