New norms issued to protect Abu Dhabi mangroves

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi's Urban Planning Council (UPC), in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Environmental Agency and other Abu Dhabi government organisations, announced the launch of new planning guidelines for the Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park.

As the first of five national parks identified in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, the Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park will have specific planning guidelines to ensure its protection and longevity. The UPC is currently formulating similar specific planning guidelines for the remaining designated reserves.

"The mangroves surrounding the city are the most important ecological source in the country and contain more biodiversities than any other area in Abu Dhabi. The environmental framework policies ensure the long-term protection of the mangrove area for future generations of citizens and visitors to Abu Dhabi," said Falah Al Ahbabi, General Manager of the UPC.

The planning guidelines require that native vegetation and supporting hydrology be retained within the National Park.