Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture: Earth Day is an Opportunity to Renew Commitment to Environmental Protection and the Preservation of Natural Resources

On the occasion of Earth Day, commemorated annually on April 22, His Excellency Engineer Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, highlighted the Ministry’s steadfast commitment to advancing the objectives of the National Afforestation Plan, which aims to double the number of trees in the Kingdom of Bahrain from 1.8 million to 3.6 million by the year 2035. This target will be pursued through the continued expansion of diverse afforestation initiatives. H.E further emphasized that the observance of this global occasion reflects the importance of collective international efforts to mitigate environmentally harmful waste and promote the principles of sustainable waste management.

H.E also emphasized the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to implement the National Action Plan to achieve carbon neutrality, as announced by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The plan reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to a more sustainable future through the adoption of best environmental practices to address the challenges of climate change. He also highlighted the initiatives of the government, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, which aim to protect the environment and expand afforestation projects.

In the same context, the Minister praised the pivotal role of the “Mangrove Bahrain” initiative launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman Al Khalifa, in protecting the marine environment and conserving natural resources, noting the tangible achievements Bahrain has made in the cultivation of mangrove trees.

H.E further stated that the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture continues to implement a range of environmental initiatives, including the development of sanitation services, expansion of green spaces, and enhancement of waste management efficiency through sustainable methods. Additionally, the Ministry is promoting a recycling culture by establishing specialized waste collection centers across various areas of the Kingdom, thereby reinforcing the principles of environmental sustainability for current and future generations.

In conclusion, the Minister stated that Earth Day is a meaningful opportunity to renew the commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources which serve as fundamental pillars of sustainable development and are essential to ensuring a high quality of life. He further noted that the land is a cornerstone of national identity and a continuous source of sustenance, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to safeguard and preserve it.