Experts call for multi-pronged approach to combat region's coral reef depletion

The Forum is taking place at the Crowne Plaza, Abu Dhabi, 11th to 14th September 2006 under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Environment & Water and is organized by the EWS-WWF (Emirates Wildlife Society - World Wide Fund for Nature).

"Unrestrained development of coastal areas in the region have had a major adverse impact on the coral reefs which are prime incubators of marine life. The Forum calls for significant reform of the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) process being followed in the region including strengthening the role of environmental protection agencies and ensuring stakeholder input into the decision-making process" said a statement released by organizers of the Forum.

"Guidelines also need to be established for reclamation and dredging in sensitive zones. It is also critical that data that results from EIAs is published".

Calling for sensible compromise, participants at acknowledged that both economic development and environmental protection were not mutually exclusive. "We understand that large coastal development projects have been conceived with the aim of significantly benefiting a nation's or a region's economy. We would however like to see environmental concerns being factored in at the planning stage rather than as a mitigation strategy mid-way through project implementation".

"More MPAs (Marine Protected Areas) need to be established based on recommended locations and criteria with adequate consultation of all stakeholders. Where applicable legal mechanisms need to be developed for MPA implementation".

Other recommendations made at the Forum included the improvement of collaboration and communication between regional conservation organizations, public outreach, media education, building awareness among the public and business sector and the creation of teams to revise existing environmental laws.

Participants at the Forum also proposed establishment of an environmental council (eco-Majlis) at a provincial and regional level to tackle marine environmental issues as well as involvement of fishermen and environmental NGOs in committees formed at a regional level.

The first two days of discussions at the Marine Conservation Forum 2006 were dedicated to coral reefs followed by two days of presentations focused on turtle protection. Participants expect to draw up a Regional Conservation Action Plan at the Forum which concludes today.