WIN TIMES February 2021_22
Sheikh Zayed: Protector of the Environment Mir Faraz, Year 6H We all know that our Earth is a unique planet – the only one we know of that can sustain life. With the rise in population, the onus on this fragile planet is growing day by day. Global warming, deforestation, rising sea levels, ozone layer depletion are words which we read everywhere- and it’s good that we do! The more awareness spread about safeguarding the planet, the better. But did you know there once lived an extraordinary man who talked of sustainability long before this word was even known to most people? He talked of environmental protection almost 50 years ago when not many could fathom that the environment needed any extra attention! That great man was none other than our exemplary His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first President of the United Arab Emirates and the Father of the Nation. As His Highness Sheikh Zayed dreamt of taking the country from strength to strength, he also aimed to imbibe the principles of sustainability into all developments in the country. He was a supporter of an ecosystem which was healthy and green and revelled in preserving its natural resources. The great visionary that he was, Sheikh Zayed understood that the environment is inherently susceptible to vulnerabilities if not taken care of in a responsible way. He believed that the protection of the environment is a precursor to a sustainable, balanced, and inclusive growth. Forever an advocate of lush green spaces, Sheikh Zayed saw to it that the masterplan of Abu Dhabi had meticulously planned open spaces and plantations. His Highness ensured that the country’s rich coastal mangrove trees were preserved and given the optimum conditions to thrive. Fast forward to this day, the UAE now has the largest mangroves in this region. Mangrove trees prevent coastline erosion caused by ocean waves and reduce carbon emissions considerably.
Did You Know? In his life time, Sheikh Zayed is credited to be the driving force behind the plantation of 150
million trees! These trees helped combat desertification to a large extent and acted as aids to keep the city temperature lower by creating barriers against the hot desert winds.
