Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) announced on Wednesday that around 300 hawksbill turtles have hatched at Al Taweelah beach in Abu Dhabi this season, adding to the approximately 7,500 successful hatchings that have taken place near the company’s facilities since 2011. These animals, which are critically endangered, are the only sea turtles that nest in the United Arab Emirates. EGA’s sustainability team monitors the beach throughout the nesting season, protecting nests from potential predators and waste, and rescuing injured or sick turtles to ensure their survival.
Since the monitoring program began, around 116 nests have been recorded on the beach near EGA’s operations, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to protecting wildlife in the region. This year, four turtles that required special care were moved to the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Centre at the Burj Al Arab, where they are now receiving specialist treatment before being released back into the sea. These types of interventions are essential to ensure that vulnerable turtles receive the care they need to recover and return to their natural habitat.
The importance of conservation in the United Arab Emirates
The conservation of the hawksbill turtle is a priority in the United Arab Emirates, not only because of its endangered species status, but also because of its role in the marine ecosystem. EGA has been at the forefront of these efforts, combining its industrial operations with environmental initiatives that seek to protect and preserve local wildlife. The company’s commitment extends beyond monitoring the beach during nesting season, involving the entire community in the preservation of the natural environment.
Before nesting season begins, EGA organizes volunteer days in which employees from across the company participate to clean up Al Taweelah beach. In January, EGA volunteers managed to remove approximately 1,300 kilograms of marine debris, helping to maintain a clean and safe environment for local wildlife.
The role of ega in the protection of biodiversity
The chief executive officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, has underlined the importance of operating responsibly, highlighting EGA’s commitment to protecting wildlife near its operations. “We are proud to play a role in conserving these magnificent creatures, which are an integral part of the UAE’s natural heritage and biodiversity. Our team works hard to ensure that our beach is a safe and welcoming habitat for the turtles, and we are delighted to see another successful hatching season,” Bin Kalban said.
The lifespan of a hawksbill turtle ranges from 30 to 50 years, and females can lay between 100 and 150 eggs during the nesting season. These figures reflect the importance of ensuring that each nesting season is successful to guarantee the continuity of the species.
Challenges and future of sea turtle conservation in abu dhabi
Although conservation efforts have yielded positive results, challenges remain significant. Hawksbill turtles face threats such as pollution, habitat loss, and poaching. Furthermore, climate change could alter nesting patterns, impacting hatchling survival. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain and expand conservation efforts in the coming years.
EGA has demonstrated that collaboration between industry and conservation is both possible and necessary. Through educational programs, engaging the local community, and promoting awareness about the importance of biodiversity, the company seeks to ensure that future generations can enjoy a healthy and vibrant marine environment.
In conclusion, the success in hawksbill turtle conservation at Al Taweelah is a testament to EGA’s commitment to the environment. As progress is made in protecting this endangered species, it is vital that other organizations follow suit and actively contribute to the preservation of our natural heritage.
