Doha:The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC) has announced that nearly 25% of Qatar's land is currently designated as terrestrial protected areas, with plans to expand protection to 30% of both terrestrial and marine areas by 2030. This initiative is part of efforts to enhance ecosystem protection, support biodiversity, and conserve natural habitats.
According to Qatar News Agency, In celebration of World Animal Day on October 4, MECC emphasized its commitment to preserving native wildlife, particularly species requiring specialized conservation programs. These initiatives incorporate scientific methods for breeding, care, and monitoring, while ensuring suitable conditions for their survival and reproduction.
Khalid Juma Al Muhannadi, Director of the Wildlife Development Department at MECC, highlighted the key role of nature reserves in safeguarding wildlife by maintaining their habitats and offering secure areas for sustenance and reproduction. The ministry's conservation programs include species such as the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and ostriches, which are monitored to boost populations and sustainability.
Al Muhannadi also noted the importance of habitat protection, including rawdas and nature reserves, stressing the need to prevent harm to these critical environments. Furthermore, MECC fulfills a regulatory role in line with international agreements like CITES to protect endangered species, overseeing trade and breeding operations to counter illegal activities.
The ministry is also involved in international collaborations, supporting breeding and conservation efforts abroad and exchanging expertise. Al Muhannadi urged the public to avoid hunting and disturbing wildlife, comply with relevant regulations, and recognize the significance of wildlife conservation in maintaining biodiversity for future generations.