SDG 15 - Life on Land

Gulf University is committed to supporting the Kingdom’s efforts towards achieving SDG 15: Life on Land. By promoting sustainable practices, such as afforestation, habitat restoration, waste reduction and energy efficiency, the university is reducing its environmental impact. Furthermore, GU is actively involved in biodiversity conservation initiatives, including such as supporting research on local ecosystems or participating in afforestation projects. Through these efforts, the university is contributing to the global goal of protecting terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity and assisting Bahrain to achieve SDG 15 which is committed to protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss. 

The Government of Bahrain has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. The country’s participation in the 30×30 initiative and the establishment of protected areas, such as Wadi Al-Buhair, are significant steps towards safeguarding biodiversity. Bahrain has also enacted strong environmental laws, such as the CITES law, to protect endangered species and promote sustainable trade. Additionally, the “Forever Green” national campaign has led to significant afforestation efforts, contributing to carbon sequestration and improving air quality. These initiatives highlight Bahrain’s dedication to creating a greener and more sustainable future. These initiatives are explained  as follows: 

Protected Areas and Conservation Efforts   

Bahrain’s commitment to land conservation and sustainable development is evident through its participation in the global 30×30 initiative, pledging to protect 30 percent of its land and ocean by 2030. The establishment of protected areas has been a key strategy in achieving this goal, such as the declaration of Wadi Al-Buhair as a natural reserve in July2022.  

Legal Framework and International Cooperation  

Bahrain enacted Law No. (5) of 2021 on Regulating and Controlling International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Animal and Plant Groups, aligning with global conservation efforts under the Convention on International Trade of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and ensuring sustainable trade practices. Bahrain submits Annual CITES Reports covering the status of legal and sustainable international wildlife trade of endangered species.  

Afforestation Efforts   

Launched under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women, the “Forever Green” national campaign for tree planting aims to expand green areas, support environmental conservation, and uphold the agricultural sector’s development. As part of its net zero plans, the Kingdom committed to doubling the number of trees from 1.8 million to nearly 3.6 million trees by the year 2035 through the expansion of afforestation projects in various streets and intersections, and municipal and government projects. In 2022, the annual tree planting target was surpassed, with 150,000 trees planted.  

Bahrain efforts for SDG 15

SDG15-GU_Website

Last Updated on November 27, 2024 @ 04:04:14 pm

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