Tag Archives: Biodiversity

Morocco-Nigeria Gas Pipeline: Economy Development or Environmental Disaster

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An ambitious project concerning energy industry in Africa between Morocco and Nigeria was set to be constructed to enhance the acceleration of electrification projects across the West African region. The objective of Morocco-Nigeria pipeline project is aimed at creation of a competitive regional market of electricity, and to connect gas resources from Nigeria to West African countries including Morocco. The pipeline project will be approximately 5,660-km long and its construction works will be in phases covering 25 years. After feasibility studies in 2017, the two countries opted for a combined onshore-offshore route to build the pipeline. The two countries are … Continue reading →

The Retreat of the Tigris River and Its Impact on Biodiversity in Northern Iraq

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The Tigris River, one of Mesopotamia’s twin lifelines, plays a vital ecological and socioeconomic role in northern Iraq. However, over the past two decades, it has undergone significant hydrological decline. This retreat, driven by a combination of climate change, upstream damming, and poor water governance, has caused a cascading effect on ecosystems and livelihoods, particularly in the northern provinces of Iraq such as Nineveh, Dohuk, and parts of Erbil. The drop in water levels in the Tigris River has: Severely impacted agricultural lands, especially in riparian zones that once depended on natural flooding cycles for soil fertility Diminished fish populations … Continue reading →

The Promise of Bioremediation

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Ecosystems are permanently challenged with the abundant release of toxic compounds into the environment due to a wide range of anthropogenic activities. Apparently, contamination with oil spills and oily waste disposal are a major global concern since it’s extensively damaging the biodiversity, threatening the public health and has severe ecological and socioeconomic consequences. For example, in 1989, thousands metric tons of crude oil spill in Alaska, led to a massive loss in the marine life as well as several long-term environmental impact. Minor oil spills and non-point oil contamination are no less threats to public health, biodiversity and environment. Awareness … Continue reading →

Green Spaces in Middle East – Perspectives

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Often dubbed as “pockets of green in a grey landscape”, green spaces such as urban parks, vertical gardens and street trees, are increasingly being incorporated into city plans and designs for their multi-functional benefits of ecological, physical and social nature. An obvious benefit from increasing green space within cities is the increase in biodiversity. Often serving as refuges and habitat corridors for wildlife, studies have shown increases in both native and endemic flora and fauna with the expansion of green spaces in cities. Infact it has been observed that city planners choose to incorporate green spaces, such as urban parks … Continue reading →

Balancing Conservation with Urban Growth: Lessons from Qatar’s Al Reem Biosphere Reserve

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Qatar’s Al Reem Biosphere Reserve is a protected, inhabited area in the country’s northwestern region. It’s accessible from major roadways and less than 50 miles from Doha, making it an attractive destination for people who want to enjoy nature’s beauty without planning major excursions. This project has many lessons to teach eco-minded individuals. Understanding the various project phases can inform you of what to consider when measuring success and outlining priorities. Collaboration is Key for Success Planners officially established the Al Reem Biosphere Reserve in 2005. Since the land encompasses three jurisdictions, collaboration between multiple parties was essential during all … Continue reading →

Understanding Qatar’s Ecological Footprint

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Qatar’s environmental impact remains worryingly high. The country’s per capita ecological footprint is now the second highest in the world, as another Gulf state, Kuwait, has overtaken it to become the worst offender of the 152 countries that were measured, according to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Living Planet Report 2014. The third country in the list is the UAE, with Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil producer, in 33rd position. By comparing the total footprint with the planet’s biocapacity – its capacity to generate an ongoing supply of renewable resources and to absorb waste -the report, based on 2010 … Continue reading →

Green Roofs in MENA – Prospects and Challenges

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Green roofs are emerging technologies that can provide a wide range of benefits to communities interested in enhancement and protection of their environment. The major benefits of green roofs are reducing energy use as well as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing stormwater management and water quality, decreasing heat island effect by regulating temperature for the roof and the surrounding areas and providing aesthetic value and habitats for many species. Increased energy consumption in the region is due largely to population growth, with related increases in demand for liquid fuels and electricity for domestic use and devices, heating, cooling, … Continue reading →

Catastrophic Impacts of Biological Warfare on Biodiversity

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Biological weapons are considered the most dangerous of all known weapons of mass destruction. They are used to deliberately cause epidemics among humans; destroy the environmental components, including water, air, and soil; and target crops and livestock. Examples of diseases used in biological warfare include anthrax, smallpox, plague, cholera, and avian flu. In addition to the catastrophic effects of biological warfare on the biodiversity and the environment, their danger lies in their low cost and rapid spread, as well as their easy preparation, transport, and use. Unlike nuclear and chemical bombs, biological bombs are without odor or color and therefore … Continue reading →

Exploring the UAE’s Natural Wonders: A Student’s Guide to Six Pristine Sites

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What many don’t realize is that the United Arab Emirates, despite its desert reputation, is an incredibly biodiverse place. My journey exploring the indigenous species of the Emirates took me from the rugged mountains of Al Ain to the thriving wildlife sanctuary of Dubai and the lush mangroves of Umm Al Quwain. This exploration revealed a surprising tapestry of ecosystems, each teeming with life adapted to the unique conditions of the region. From resilient desert plants to migratory birds and marine life in the coastal areas, the UAE’s biodiversity is as rich as it is unexpected. The following six sites … Continue reading →

How To Maintain An Eco-Friendly Golf Course

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Creating eco-friendly golf courses is not only a step towards preserving our planet but also a way to enhance the golfing experience by integrating the game with its natural surroundings.  As golf courses are known for their extensive use of land, water, and chemicals, the shift towards eco-friendly practices is essential for the sport’s sustainability. This comprehensive guide outlines the essentials of maintaining an eco-friendly golf course, drawing upon the latest insights and strategies from industry leaders. Golf Course Essentials The key to a successful eco-friendly golf course lies in understanding and implementing practices that minimize environmental impact while maintaining, … Continue reading →

Cape Three Forks – A Biodiversity Haven on Morocco’s Mediterranean Coast

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It goes without saying that the Mediterranean basin is one of the most diverse areas on our planet. But it is threatened by overexploitation, habitat loss and the impacts of climate change. Morocco’s Mediterranean coast is an important home to several endangered species. Morocco’s Mediterranean coast appears in the form of four large cavities of varying dimensions. Following the Saidia beach in the east, there is the first groove, which is about 80 km long, starts at the head of water, followed by the “Ras Wark” outcrop – Cape Three Forks. It extends towards the sea. In this part, there … Continue reading →

Protecting Iraq’s Southern Marshlands

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In mid-January 2021, Iraqi President Barham Salih approved the country’s decision to join the Paris Climate agreement. Iraq signed on to the international climate accords in 2016 but has spent the past few years negotiating its ratification through its parliament. The Paris Climate agreement encourages signatory countries to cut their carbon emissions and invest in the sustainable energy sector. Such a move might prove difficult for Iraq, a country in which oil provides 90% of government revenue and amounts to 99% of national exports. Despite these challenges, Iraq has now committed to modernizing and decarbonizing its energy sector for its … Continue reading →