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Introduction
The Abu Dhabi Blue Carbon Demonstration Project, facilitated by
the Abu Dhabi Global Environmental Data Initiative (AGEDI) was a
one-year project, which commenced in November 2012.
Supportive to AGEDI’s mandate and as one of the projects within
the Eye on the Earth Oceans and Blue Carbon Special Initiative,
the project was designed to deliver data sharing on a local
level, support and encourage adaptation on a regional level and
contribute to knowledge on the international stage.
Abu Dhabi was the ideal setting for such a project due to its
innovative concepts and commitment to informed decision-
making, in particular with regards the environment. In just over
40 years, Abu Dhabi has evolved from a small fishing community
to the largest of the seven Emirates of the UAE. With the vision
and direction from His Highness the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan
Al Nahyan, the environment has become an intrinsic part of the
heritage and traditions of the people of the UAE. This national
affinity to the sea led to the initiation of the Abu Dhabi Blue Carbon
Demonstration Project, with the aim of exploring the values
coastal and marine ecosystems provide in the UAE, and to help
preserve the Emirate’s environment and cultural heritage.
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