A total of 2,000 mangrove trees have been planted by volunteers at Jebel Ali Marine Sanctuary to enhance the existing mangrove forests there as part of activities for World Environment Day this week.
The event, organised by Dubai Municipality’s environment department, attracted families who were shown how to plant the trees, which will help provide important habitats and feeding grounds for visiting and migratory birds.
"Mangrove roots bind sand and prevent the erosion of our coasts from wave activity. Mangrove forests absorb five times more carbon dioxide from the air than other tree species and so help us improve our air quality," said Tasnim Al Falasi, head of the environment awareness section at the municipality.
During the event, 70 Hawksbill hatchlings emerged from their nests to the delight of those volunteers who were involved in the planting.
Last month, the municipality also released 40 rehabilitated rescued Hawksbill turtles at the reserve. "These turtles were critically endangered species that were hunted to near extinction for their beautiful shell and they were also a victim of boat injuries and by-catch from fishing," said Ms Al Falasi.
"When injured turtles are found on the beach, the public are asked to take them to the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where they are nursed back to health before being released at the sanctuary."
During this year’s Car Free Day initiative, Dubai Municipality said it would plant the number of mangroves that would absorb the amount of carbon dioxide that would have been emitted by the number of cars that were not driven that day.