A new project aimed at expanding green spaces and promoting environmental sustainability across the kingdom was launched yesterday at Bahrain University.
The initiative, being held as part of the Forever Green national afforestation campaign, was organised by the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD), with support from the Yousif and Aysha Almoayyed Foundation.
It was inaugurated in the presence of NIAD secretary-general Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa and university president Dr Fuad Al Ansari, senior university officials, and foundation representatives.
More than 100 trees and shrubs were planted as part of the project. The plants were selected for their adaptability to the kingdom’s climate conditions and also for their role in improving air quality, reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the university campus in Sakhir.
Shaikha Maram praised the project, stating that expanding afforestation within educational institutions contributes to raising environmental awareness among students and encourages sustainable practices, while also supporting a healthier and more stimulating learning environment.
Meanwhile, Dr Al Ansari said the university’s participation in the Forever Green campaign reflects its belief that investing in the environment is an investment in the future of education. He added that it also plays a role in strengthening community partnership towards a greener and more sustainable Bahrain.
The Forever Green campaign aims to increase green spaces, improve air quality and combat climate change by planting thousands of trees and mangroves to achieve zero-carbon neutrality by 2060.
The initiative focuses on doubling the number of trees and quadrupling mangroves by 2035 to meet environmental goals.
Selected trees, such as Poinciana and Neem, are chosen for their ability to thrive in Bahrain’s climate, require minimal water and once fully grown will provide much-needed shade.
More than 49,000 trees and shrubs were planted in the first phase, followed by more than 50,000 trees and shrubs in the second phase, 40,000 in the third phase and 6,500 in the fourth phase.
In the ongoing fifth phase of the initiative, which began in October last year in conjunction with Tree Week, trees and shrub have been planted across multiple locations including Zallaq Youth Empowerment Centre, Riffa Block 934, and areas around Khalifa City Health Centre.
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