Environmental experts from across the Gulf gathered to strengthen regional efforts to protect biodiversity and improve the management of protected areas during a workshop held recently.
Organised by the Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) in co-operation with the GCC General Secretariat, with technical support from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the workshop aimed to enhance GCC co-operation in environmental protection by exchanging national and regional expertise and applying international standards and best practices in protected area management.
The programme featured scientific presentations, practical training sessions and specialised panel discussions on implementing the IUCN Green List standards.
SCE chief executive officer Amna Al Romaihi said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to improve the management of protected areas, conserve key ecosystems and native species, promote the sustainable use of natural resources, and strengthen resilience to environmental challenges and climate change.
Bahrain has also been stepping up efforts to protect its own natural sites. Municipal authorities recently pledged strict action against trespassers entering Wadi Al Buhair (Buhair Valley) after the 45-million-year-old landmark attracted large numbers of visitors following viral social media posts showcasing its lush greenery and flowing streams.
Recent inspections by the SCE, conducted on behalf of the Oil and Environment Ministry, confirmed the protected site remains free of harmful pollutants, with environmental indicators found to be within normal levels and no hazardous substances detected in the valley’s water or surrounding ecosystem.
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