Abu dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), presided over the agency's second board meeting of 2026. The meeting was held at Al Nakheel Palace, where Sheikh Hamdan acknowledged EAD's efforts and strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing environmental excellence, community health, and quality of life across Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting was attended by key figures including Mansour Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi; Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development; and several other prominent officials. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that Abu Dhabi's achievements in environmental protection and natural resource conservation are a reflection of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's vision and support for sustainable development.
During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed EAD's key performance indicators, which showed improvements in environmental quality and biodiversity. Air quality compliance reached approximately 98%, and the marine environment indicators such as microbial water quality and Sustainable Fishing Index achieved optimal scores. The Marine Water Eutrophication Index was reported at 85.5%.
The board also discussed efforts to enhance the emirate's emergency water supply resilience, including initiatives for groundwater fields and wells. These efforts involved assessments across multiple locations in Al Dhafra and Al Ain regions, and the development of a governance framework for groundwater management in coordination with stakeholders.
EAD's achievements in biodiversity conservation were also highlighted, including aerial seed dispersal programs and the operations of the environmental research vessel, Jaywun. The vessel completed extensive scientific surveys and contributed significantly to marine ecosystem enhancement efforts, including the Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens initiative.
On land, EAD conducted approximately 14,000 field patrols, identifying violations and issuing permits for protected area access. The agency also intensified efforts to control harmful species, contributing to healthier ecosystems.
Sheikh Hamdan reviewed EAD's progress in environmental quality through regulatory and legislative frameworks, with thousands of environmental licenses issued and inspections conducted. Initiatives to counter visual pollution and address transboundary pollutants were also discussed.
The board examined developments at Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, which treated numerous falcons and conducted extensive laboratory tests, maintaining Abu Dhabi's reputation in falcon care.
Sheikh Hamdan praised EAD's role in raising environmental awareness and directed the agency to continue advancing excellence in the environmental sector to enhance quality of life in Abu Dhabi.
Source: Emirates News Agency