"Never Too Late": Science-Driven Policy Can Heal Oceans, Says Abu Dhabi Envoy

The Urgent Need for Science-Led Environmental Policies

On the sidelines of the World Governments Summit, Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, shared her insights with Euronews on the importance of science-led policy and long-term regulation in reversing environmental damage to oceans and coastal ecosystems.

When asked about the scale of challenges facing the world's seas, Al Dhaheri emphasized that climate change and human activity are placing unprecedented pressure on coastal communities and marine biodiversity. She highlighted that many cities around the world are located along coastlines, making them particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

“Many, many cities around the world are placed in front of water, are coastal cities,” she said. “And today, we know that climate change is having unprecedented challenges for the communities that live along the coast. Sea level rise, biodiversity loss. Acidity of the water, which means that we are losing nature at a faster rate than ever.”

The Impact of Rapid Development on Coastal Ecosystems

Al Dhaheri also pointed out that rapid development and economic activity along coastlines have increased the strain on ecosystems that support livelihoods and essential services. This has led to significant challenges for both marine life and the people who depend on these environments.

She noted that while the situation is dire, there is still hope. When asked whether the world is approaching a point of no return, Al Dhaheri rejected that assessment, citing Abu Dhabi’s experience as evidence that recovery is possible.

“If I answer your question from Abu Dhabi's perspective, I would say it's never too late,” she said. “From our experience, we did face an over-exploitation of our fisheries, which was at 8 per cent seven years back. And with that science, with the data, and also with the correct regulation, and enforcement, we were able to rebound this stock up to 100 per cent end of 2025.”

Leadership and Data-Informed Decision-Making

Al Dhaheri emphasized that leadership support combined with data-informed decision-making has been central to Abu Dhabi's recovery efforts. She noted that global fish stocks remain under far greater pressure, but there are many success stories built around science, innovation, and decision-making that demonstrate the potential for nature to bounce back.

Initiatives for Resilient Marine Ecosystems

Under her leadership, several initiatives have been launched to build resilient marine ecosystems. These include the Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed RICHEST SEAS initiative, aimed at restoring and protecting marine environments, alongside expanded protected areas, mangrove restoration, and large-scale coral reef rehabilitation.

“We were also able to plant 50 million mangrove saplings in the last five years,” she said, adding that Abu Dhabi is targeting 100 million mangroves by 2030. She also highlighted coral restoration efforts involving millions of fragments and the mobilization of advanced marine research vessels to better understand climate impacts in the Arabian Gulf.

The Role of the World Governments Summit

Reflecting on the role of the World Governments Summit, Al Dhaheri said the event provides a critical platform for governments to exchange knowledge and learn from one another. She expressed pride in the United Arab Emirates, and specifically Abu Dhabi, playing a leading role in promoting sustainability.

“It can really serve as a beacon of hope to instil that sustainability as something that can be achieved through multiple coordination, through multiple cooperation,” she said.

Innovation in Governance and Policy

Al Dhaheri added that innovation in governance, law, and policy is as important as technology in securing long-term environmental sustainability. She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts and continuous improvement to protect the planet’s oceans and coastal ecosystems.