Municipalities Minister highlights Bahrain’s commitment to Earth Day goals

Manama, Apr. 21 (BNA):  Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities and Agriculture Affairs, highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to the objectives of the National Afforestation Plan on the occasion of Earth Day, observed annually on April 22.

The plan aims to double the number of trees in the Kingdom of Bahrain from 1.8 million to 3.6 million by 2035 through the continued expansion of tree planting initiatives.  He noted that observing this global occasion reflects the importance of collective international efforts to reduce harmful waste and promote sustainable waste management.

Minister Al Mubarak highlighted the ongoing efforts to implement Bahrain’s national action plan to achieve carbon neutrality, announced by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, which reflects the Kingdom’s drive toward a more sustainable future by adopting best environmental practices to address climate change.  He commended government initiatives, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, aimed at environmental protection and expanding afforestation projects.

He highlighted the key role of the Bahrain Mangroves initiative, launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman Al Khalifa, in protecting the marine environment and preserving natural resources, noting Bahrain’s tangible achievements in mangrove plantation.

The minister noted that the Ministry of Municipalities and Agriculture Affairs continues to implement a range of environmental initiatives, including enhancing cleaning services, expanding green spaces, improving sustainable waste management practices, and promoting a recycling culture by establishing specialised waste collection centres across the Kingdom.  These efforts contribute to embedding environmental sustainability for current and future generations.

He highlighted that Earth Day is an opportunity to renew the commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources, which are essential to sustainable development and quality of life.  He emphasised that the land represents a cornerstone of national identity and a source of continued sustenance, calling for sustained efforts to safeguard it.