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The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change showcased Qatar’s experience in planning and implementing climate change adaptation strategies at a dialogue session titled “Responses to Climate Change Adaptation and New Support Structures”, held as part of Global Green Growth Week 2025 in Seoul, South Korea. The ministry was represented at the session by Head of the Climate Change Mitigation Section at the Climate Change Department, Mohammed Omar al-Badr. He presented to the participants the most prominent successful national experiences and practices implemented by Qatar in the field of national climate change adaptation planning, as well as its ongoing efforts to build capacity and enhance the resilience of vital sectors most affected by climate events. Al-Badr also addressed the lessons learned from Qatar’s experience in developing and implementing adaptation strategies, emphasising the importance of co-operation between the public and private sectors to achieve national goals in the areas of sustainability and mitigating the effects of climate change. He affirmed that Qatar continues to adopt innovative policies and initiatives to support the green economy and promote sustainable investments, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. The Global Green Growth Week is one of the most prominent international platforms for discussing environmental challenges and reviewing solutions and policies aimed at achieving sustainable development. It witnesses broad participation from representatives of governments, international organisations, research institutions, and experts in the fields of environment, energy, and green finance.

Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, participated in the meetings of the 36th session of the Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for Environmental Affairs, hosted by the Mauritanian capital, Nouakchott. The Qatari delegation to the meetings was headed by HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, who affirmed in his address Qatar’s unwavering commitment to supporting joint Arab environmental efforts and strengthening regional and international co-operation to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and protect natural resources for the benefit of future generations. On the sidelines of the session, HE the minister held meetings with a number of ministers and heads of participating bodies. He discussed with them aspects of environmental co-operation, co-ordinating Arab positions in international forums, and prospects for partnership in regional and international initiatives aimed at combating desertification and addressing the challenges associated with drought, particularly in developing countries.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), in cooperation with Qatar Youth Hostels and the Friends of the Environment Center (FEC) affiliated with the Ministry of Sports and Youth, organised a series of training workshops at the headquarters of the FEC. This initiative comes as part of the preparations for the annual Youth Support Camp programme, aiming to enhance environmental awareness among young people and introduce them to the scientific and technical principles of breeding and conserving the Houbara bustard, one of Qatar’s important environmental symbols. The workshops included three main training sessions, covering various topics such as: the basic scientific and technical principles of breeding Houbara bustard in captivity; the importance of preserving biodiversity in nature reserves; sustainable environmental care methods; and the role of youth in protecting wildlife. Mohamed bin Nahar al-Nuaimi, director of the External Reserves Office at the MoECC, affirmed that organising these workshops comes within the efforts to promote environmental awareness and spread a culture of sustainability among young people. “Introducing the new generation to the fundamental principles of breeding and conserving the Houbara bustard represents an important step in instilling the concept of environmental responsibility and highlighting national efforts to protect wildlife and preserve biodiversity,” he explained. Al-Nuaimi pointed out that through these training programmes, the ministry seeks to enable young men and women to gain knowledge of modern scientific methods for bird breeding and environmental preservation, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, which places sustainable development at the heart of its goals. He added that the External Reserves Office will continue organising specialised training and awareness programmes and events to enhance community participation in environmental protection and to instill the values of conserving natural resources among all segments of society, especially youth.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's Department of Land Protection in cooperation with the Environmental Security Unit of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya), has carried out a surprise inspection campaign in various sites in the northern region of the country. During the campaign, an unlicensed bird-hunting shelter that had been set up in violation of applicable environmental regulations was detected and removed. This action is part of the ministry’s measures to address any practices that harm the environment or distort the public landscape. The campaign is part of a series of periodic field inspections conducted by the ministry to ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations, as well as to preserve vegetation cover and biodiversity across different regions of the country, supporting Qatar’s environmental sustainability goals.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in co-operation with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), represented by the Radiation Control Department, announced the accreditation of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) as an international collaborative centre, the "Anchor Center," in radiation medicine.This achievement is the result of close and ongoing cooperation between the MoECC, represented by the Radiation Control Department, and HMC, as part of joint efforts to develop peaceful applications of nuclear technology in healthcare, diagnosis, and treatment, contributing to further scientific and medical progress for the benefit of Qatari society and humanity as a whole.Assistant Undersecretary for Environmental Affairs at the MoECC Yousef al-Hamar emphasised that the accreditation of HMC as an international collaborative centre with the IAEA is a major achievement that adds to Qatar's distinguished record in the areas of international cooperation and the use of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. It also reflects the great confidence that the country's institutions enjoy among specialised international organisations.Al-Hamar pointed out that this fruitful cooperation highlights Qatar's commitment to empowering its national cadres and building human capacity in the fields of radiology and radiation control, through research, training, and professional development programmes, in line with the aspirations of Qatar National Vision 2030 towards sustainable human and health development.He indicated that this achievement represents international recognition of the competence of Qatari national cadres and the advanced infrastructure the country possesses in the field of radiation and medical applications. It also reflects Qatar's unwavering commitment to the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and its contribution to enhancing the health sector's capabilities in diagnosing and treating cancer according to the latest international standards.This accreditation is a significant national achievement that enhances Qatar's position in the fields of nuclear medicine and cancer treatment, as part of the "Rays of Hope" initiative launched by the IAEA to provide radiotherapy to cancer patients, particularly in developing countries. (QNA)###OPT TRIMThis achievement comes within the framework of the practical arrangements signed between the Ministry of Public Health and IAEA in November 2023, during the visit of the IAEA's deputy director general and head of the department of technical cooperation Hua Liu to Doha, which will contribute to strengthening the advanced healthcare system in the country.This event embodies Qatar's commitment to supporting international efforts to combat cancer and affirms its active role in providing specialised medical expertise and services at the regional and global levels.This also reflects the close cooperation between the MoECC, represented by the Radiation Control Department — as the national point of contact with the IAEA and relevant state institutions — in supporting the achievement of sustainable development goals and developing national capabilities in the fields of radiation medicine and peaceful nuclear technology, thus consolidating Qatar's position in supporting international initiatives aimed at employing nuclear technologies to serve humanity. (QNA)

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) Committee for the Organisation of Winter Camping Affairs has carried out extensive field inspection tours across various camping areas in the country. The tours were conducted in co-operation with the Ministry of Municipality Public Cleanliness Department, and the Environmental Security Group of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya), as part of an integrated plan aimed at ensuring site readiness and providing a safe, clean environment for all campers. During the field visits, a large number of waste containers were distributed across designated camping sites. The inspection teams also monitored compliance with approved environmental regulations and verified the availability of essential requirements to maintain the cleanliness and integrity of natural areas, aligning with the ministry’s goal of ensuring an environmentally sustainable and safe camping season. Accordingly, MoECC affirmed that these efforts reflect its ongoing commitment to protecting natural resources, preserving the beauty of Qatar’s environment, and promoting environmental awareness within the community. It stressed that maintaining the cleanliness of camping sites is a shared responsibility that requires the co-operation of all campers and participants throughout the season. Meanwhile, the ministry urged all campers to adhere to the environmental and regulatory requirements issued by the Committee for the Organization of Winter Camping Affairs, to avoid leaving waste or causing harm to natural components. The ministry confirmed that environmental inspection teams will continue to conduct regular field visits to ensure full compliance with the established guidelines. The ministry added that the success of the camping season largely depends on community awareness and co-operation, noting that collaboration between government entities and the public forms a key foundation for achieving a safe, sustainable, and enjoyable recreational season, one that reflects Qatar’s advanced environmental and cultural values.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change’s Wildlife Protection Department in co-operation with the Environmental Security Unit of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) has carried out an extensive inspection campaign in the southern regions of the country aimed at reducing environmental violations regarding the use of bird-attracting devices.The campaign resulted in the seizure of around 474 bird-attracting devices (sound lures), and the necessary legal measures were taken in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations in this regard. The ministry stressed the importance of adhering to environmental laws and regulations and refraining from using methods that harm wildlife and biodiversity. It also noted that the campaign is ongoing as part of its efforts to protect Qatar’s environment and preserve its natural components.

Under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), ‘Injaz Qatar’, in collaboration with Nestlé, launched the ‘Sustainability Heroes’ programme, which aims to raise environmental awareness among youth in Qatar and prepare a new generation capable of addressing sustainability and climate change challenges.The launch ceremony was attended by Injaz Qatar and Injaz Al-Arab chairperson HE Sheikha Hanadi bint Nasser al-Thani and Swiss ambassador to Qatar, Florence Tinguely Mattli, alongside a number of officials and representatives from relevant entities.The ceremony included a panel discussion titled ‘Nurturing a Generation of Sustainability Heroes’, featuring Dr Abdullah Ahmed al-Tamimi, head of the Sustainable Production and Consumption Department at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change; Sebastien Turbot, director of Advocacy and Communications at Earthna; and Tarek Abouzolf, general manager of Nestlé Qatar.The discussion addressed mechanisms for enhancing youth participation in sustainability programmes through awareness and interactive activities that link theoretical knowledge with practical experiences.Dr al-Tamimi affirmed that the MoECC places special importance on encouraging students to participate in field and community activities, as these play a key role in translating theoretical knowledge into practical action that enhances their environmental awareness and supports the country’s vision of building a green economy and a sustainable society.Abouzolf added: “We will continue to support students from ideation to implementation, providing training and career opportunities so that their projects can evolve into solutions that benefit society and the environment.”The discussion session was moderated by Injaz Qatar CEO Emad al-Khaja, who highlighted the vital role of collaboration between the private sector and the education sector.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) has launched the National Strategy to Combat Desertification 2025-30, as part of Qatar's efforts to protect its natural resources, enhance their sustainability, and mitigate land degradation and the impacts of drought, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy 2024-30.The strategy aims to establish a comprehensive national framework to combat desertification and achieve land degradation neutrality by improving the efficiency of natural resource management and strengthening supportive legislation and policies, thereby contributing to the protection of ecosystems and the achievement of sustainable development.In his remarks during the launch ceremony, HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie affirmed that desertification and the depletion of natural resources pose escalating environmental challenges that require collective efforts both locally and globally.He emphasised that the launch of this national strategy reflects Qatar's commitment to protecting the environment and honouring its international obligations, particularly under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).HE Dr al-Subaie said that the strategy is based on advanced scientific and technical foundations and aims to enhance the State's capacity to address the effects of drought and desertification, protect vegetation cover, and ensure biodiversity sustainability, in alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.He added that the strategy encompasses six key outcomes: protecting ecosystems and reducing factors contributing to desertification and drought; promoting sustainable management of natural resources; strengthening vegetation cover and rehabilitating affected environments; building capacity and supporting scientific research and innovation; developing legislation, policies, and effective governance; and enhancing community participation and national and international partnerships.HE Dr al-Subaie noted that these pillars form the foundation for the programmes and projects that the ministry will implement in partnership with national and international entities, as well as local communities.He added that the ministry, as the national focal point for the UNCCD, co-ordinated efforts with relevant stakeholders in the public and private sectors and civil society institutions to prepare the strategy, which includes practical programmes and projects, most notably the rehabilitation of terrestrial environments, cultivation of native plant species, establishment of nurseries for the propagation of local species, and the updating of legislation governing the use of natural resources.HE Dr al-Subaie added that the ministry is leading the implementation of the strategy in co-operation with concerned entities through an integrated institutional and operational framework that includes regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, clear identification of responsibilities and authorities, and the provision of the necessary human, technical, and financial resources.The minister further noted the activation of modern technological tools for monitoring and management to ensure the effective and sustainable execution of all programs and projects.He called for greater collaboration among national sectors to ensure the effective implementation of the strategy and the achievement of its objectives in addressing desertification, protecting the environment, and ensuring sustainability for future generations.Assistant Undersecretary for Protection and Natural Reserves Affairs Dr Ibrahim Abdul Latif al-Muslimani said that the launch of the strategy comes as part of the ministry's efforts to establish an integrated national approach to address desertification and related environmental challenges.He said that the strategy represents a comprehensive framework that promotes ecosystem protection, rehabilitation of affected environments, and development and sustainability of vegetation cover, in addition to strengthening sound management of natural resources.Dr al-Muslimani stressed the importance of raising environmental awareness across all segments of society, developing training programmes and institutional capacity-building, and promoting scientific research and innovation in the field of sustainable land management.He pointed out that the preparation of the strategy came in response to the environmental challenges facing Qatar, including the scarcity of natural resources, fragile vegetation cover, and encroachment of sand dunes.Adel Mohammed al-Yafei, the head of the Wildlife Development Department’s Plant Wildlife Section, said that the National Strategy to Combat Desertification, is a milestone in the ministry's record of achievements.He said that the strategy seeks to develop early warning and environmental monitoring systems, stabilise sand dunes, mitigate the effects of climate change, and promote balanced management of water, soil, and mineral resources.The official added that the strategy includes projects to rehabilitate affected ecosystems, improve the efficiency of agricultural land use, and enhance research and innovation through the adoption of smart agriculture technologies and the use of artificial intelligence applications in natural resource management, as well as promoting applied studies related to combating desertification.Al-Yafei noted that the Wildlife Development Department continues to implement national programmes to combat desertification through integrated policies aimed at rehabilitating degraded rangelands, cultivating native plant species, expanding the establishment of national nurseries to propagate and preserve local flora, and enforcing ministerial decisions to curb overgrazing and combat invasive plant species that threaten local ecosystems.He said that the department is committed to applying clear measures to protect vegetation cover and wildlife within development projects at all stages of implementation, in a way that strengthens environmental balance and supports national efforts to combat desertification and land degradation.The launch ceremony was attended by HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiyah, HE the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Abdulaziz bin Ahmed al-Mahmoud, and Public Works Authority (Ashghal) President engineer Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al-Meer, along with assistant undersecretaries, senior officials from environmental, academic, and research sectors, and representatives of national institutions and the private sector.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) has stressed the importance of the World Animal Day, which falls on October 4. The ministry pointed out through its official X account that "this occasion aims to raise awareness about animal rights and welfare around the world. It represents an opportunity to unite the efforts of individuals and organizations from various cultures and backgrounds to work towards protecting animals whether wild, domestic, or endangered. Its importance lies in shedding light on the issues animals face, such as habitat loss, pollution, commercial exploitation, and abuse, in addition to promoting initiatives that support biodiversity and animal welfare." The ministry noted that on World Animal Day, the State of Qatar continues its efforts to protect wildlife, as the coverage rate of protected areas has reached up to 27.73% of the country’s area. The number of wild animals cared for by the protected areas has reached 2,970 heads, including up to 10 species that fall under 3 groups: ungulates, birds, and reptiles. The Department of Protected Areas embodies the national entity responsible for the care and preservation of endangered and rare wildlife species distinctive of the desert environment since 1979. Accordingly, the total area of land reserves in the country amounted to 2,985 sq km, while the marine protected areas amounted to 721.18 sq km. Further, Qatar has passed strict laws and regulations against poaching and the possession of wild animals without proper official permits, ensuring the sustainability of wildlife for the future generations. This year, World Animal Day is celebrated under the theme: 'Save Animals, Save the Planet'. The aim is to unite global efforts in protecting animals, raising awareness of their rights, and highlighting the plight of endangered species. It also seeks to encourage communities to take meaningful steps toward safeguarding both wildlife and domestic animals alike. In the meantime, the ministry stressed spreading public awareness on the related issues and enhance coordination among stakeholders and public and private entities to further improve the protection of wild animals and their habitats and other animals in general as key components for the overall well being of our environment.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has spotted a female warbler bird hiding on a ghaf tree in one of the country’s wilderness areas, as part of its ongoing efforts to monitor biodiversity and track migratory birds.**media[361729]**The whistling bird is considered a passage migrant that is seen in Qatar every September. It feeds on insects, seeds, and fruits, and is distinguished by its beauty and cautious behaviour, as it usually hides among the branches away from sight.

As part of its commitment to protect the environment and preserve biodiversity, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change continues its field efforts to remove harmful Prosopis juliflora (mesquite) trees from open areas.This initiative is part of the national plans aimed at combating invasive plant species and reducing their negative impacts on biodiversity within local terrestrial ecosystems.The Wildlife Development Department organised a field campaign on Tuesday to remove harmful mesquite trees in Rawdat Al-Hayr Al-Sharqi in Ain Sinan area.The campaign was carried out with the participation of several ministry employees to complete the removal of this invasive species, which had taken over the vegetation cover in the targeted meadows (Rawda).