As part of efforts to promote sustainable environmental initiatives, the Sultanate of Oman hosted a team of experts from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) specializing in forests, wetlands and climate change. The visit included field tours to several mangrove forest sites across Oman, where the current ecological conditions of these vital ecosystems were assessed, and scientific expertise was exchanged.

The visit aimed to prepare for the launch of a sustainable environmental project focused on the rehabilitation and monitoring of mangrove forests. During the meetings, the focus was placed on achieving several key objectives, including identifying key stakeholders and their previous and ongoing contributions, exchanging information on the current state of knowledge, goals, and needs related to mangrove inventory, restoration, and monitoring.

Thaer Yaseen, Acting FAO Representative in Oman, highlighted the significance of this initiative in fostering international collaboration to achieve shared environmental and social goals.

"The rehabilitation of mangrove forests is a critical step in addressing climate change. We look forward to achieving tangible results through this partnership between FAO and Oman," he stated.

“Mangrove forests represent one of the most vital natural ecosystems, playing a significant role in preserving biodiversity. This project can effectively contribute to supporting Oman’s efforts to protect coastal ecosystems and ensure their sustainability,” added Eng. Ahmed Said Alshukaili, Director of Marine Conservation Department at the Environment Authority.

The Environment Authority has played a pivotal role in this initiative, leading ongoing efforts in the Blue Carbon Project, which enhances mangroves' capacity to absorb carbon and removing greenhouse gas emissions and preserving mangrove carbon stocks climate change. The Authority serves as a key partner in the proposed project, leveraging its expertise in monitoring and protecting coastal ecosystems to support sustainable development goals.

These efforts align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 15, which focuses on protecting and restoring terrestrial and wetland ecosystems and combating desertification, and Goal 13, which calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. The initiative also contributes to preserving biodiversity and strengthening the adaptive capacity of local communities and ecosystems, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to sustainable development.