Minister of Climate Change and Environment Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi visited today the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) in Dubai to learn more about the Center and its work, climate change adaptation and mitigation in marginal environments.

During his visit, Dr.Al Zeyoudi was briefed about ICBA’s research on natural resources management, climate change adaptation, crop productivity and diversification, aquaculture and bio-energy, and policy analysis in marginal environments.

The minister said: "I am pleased to learn about applied research carried out at ICBA. I am sure that innovative research solutions developed by the Center will help to improve agricultural productivity and livelihoods of farmers and rural communities in marginal environments."

The minister also noted that the impact of climate change is becoming more visible globally and it is necessary to urgently address challenges associated with climate change, develop effective strategies and innovative solutions for sustainable agricultural production in areas that are most vulnerable to climate change impact.

Speaking of ICBA’s research initiatives, Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, ICBA Director General, said: "We are pleased to welcome Dr. Al Zeyoudi at the Center. We highly appreciate his vision and support for promoting climate change adaptation in marginal environments through a multidisciplinary approach. We work on a number of technologies, including the use of conventional and non-conventional water (such as saline water, treated wastewater, industrial water, agricultural drainage water, and seawater), land management, remote sensing and modeling for climate change adaptation in marginal areas. And we look forward to increased collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in this field."

During his visit, Al Zeyoudi toured ICBA’s research facilities, including experimental fields on date palm, an integrated aqua-agriculture system, the Soil Museum, Gene bank, greenhouses, and a SCADA system.

Established in 1999, ICBA is supported by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, and the Islamic Development Bank (IDB).
Source:WAM