Nakheel signs MoU with UN agency on marine environment management

The agreement provides an umbrella under which both Nakheel and UNU/INWEH shall undertake a series of specialized projects, for monitoring and enhancement of the marine environment adjacent to The Palm, as well as education activities linked to it.

The UNU/INWEH's core global mission is to contribute to the resolution of global water issues relating to environment and human health, through education, training research and dissemination of information.

Commenting on the agreement, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman of Nakheel said, "We have partnered with this UN Agency due to their proven expertise in coastal zone management. Nakheel is dedicated to enhancing the environment of The Palm project and is taking every opportunity to protect its diverse marine life, whilst at the same time minimizing the environmental impact of its execution".

At the signing ceremony Dr Ralph Daley, Director UNU/INWEH expressed his enthusiasm about being involved with the extraordinary Palm project and said, "The program of activities we will undertake with The Palm in Dubai includes an ongoing monitoring program for the marine waters adjacent to the development; and an onsite demonstration project on habitat and fisheries enhancement."

In addition to UNU/INWEH's dedicated Palm activities, they will also collaborate with The Palm management team to organize a triennial UNU-led conference on Marine Coastal Zone Management. This conference is expected not only to bring global visibility to Dubai but also position Dubai as a focal point to promote the protection of the world's marine near shore resources.

The Palm has appointed a number of internationally recognized experts both internally and as consultants to carry out a range of activities in the area of bioresource management and environmental engineering. One such appointment is the Dubai-based International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) that was announced last month. The ICBA will implement practices that enhance the conservation and management of natural resources for the landscaping and greenery components of the island projects.

In total there will be two Palm islands, the first is The Palm, Jumeirah, which is expected to open towards the end of 2005 and the second is The Palm, Jebel Ali which is expected to open towards the end of 2007. Each island will create a large number of residential, leisure and entertainment opportunities all within a unique and inspiring setting.

Developers of The Palm project are extensively investing in projects that ensure environmental protection, conservation, ecosystem enhancement and bioresource sustainability.