Bahrain Faces Environment Trouble

V L Srinivasan

Manama, Jan 29

Bahrain is facing climate change challenges such as rising water levels, a top UN Environment Programme (UNEP) official said yesterday.

Speaking to DT on the sidelines of First World Environment Dialogue, UNEP Regional Director and Representative Dr. Habib El Habr said the Kingdom was facing several challenges and the biggest one was related to climate change.

“Bahrain, being a small island, is exposed to risks related to rising water levels. Another issue that concerns the Kingdom right now is waste management – it’s time we address issues like waste generation and disposal,” he said, adding, “Bahrain is doing well in terms of environmental protection because respective authorities realise their commitment to the same. It is one of the only countries in the region to have developed an environmental strategy, especially with a 2030 target.”

Dr. El Habr added, “Further, a draft legislation on environment is waiting to be adopted by the Parliament. Officials under the leadership of Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa are keen to implement the Act – they are doing well.”

“Bahrain is committed to preserving its environment and natural resources,” Dr. El Habr said.
Dr. El Habr had earlier made a presentation to highlight various other issues relating to sustainability and preservation of biodiversity in the Arab world at the conference.

He said, “Water scarcity is a leading issue along with endangerment of biodiversity in this part of the world. The region plays host to some unique animal and plant life which must be protected, especially since some of them are endangered now.”