H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, on Monday launched the second phase of the afforestation campaign for the Al Montathar Reserve in Al Bataeh region.

H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan joined the students of Central Region Schools in planting trees, as part of the campaign that was organised by Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah (EPAA), in co-operation with Al Bataeh Municipality.

Speaking on the occasion, he said that environmental initiatives and afforestation campaigns contribute to strengthening the UAE citizens’ environmental culture, and their awareness about environmental components. He advised the students to preserve the environment and its biodiversity, and to urge their fellow students to participate in afforestation campaigns.

During his talk with the students, he highlighted the importance of agriculture and increasing greenery, noting their positive impacts on human health, while the current and future generations will witness the results of their planting activities today.

He also highlighted the importance of full community participation, especially from school students, in these activities, adding that these generations will contribute to the urban, environmental and health renaissance.

The Sharjah Ruler went on a tour with the students and showed them the trees that were planted by their colleagues during an earlier stage.

The reserve is characterised by its desert environment, as well as the abundance of trees, pastures and wild plants. It is also considered a suitable environment for camels, livestock and some wild animals such as Oryx and other animals.

More than 1,800 volunteers, including students and organisers, participated in the Al Montathar Reserve afforestation initiative, by planting 5,000 Ghaf and Sidr trees. The initiative is in response to the Sharjah Ruler’s directives to cultivate the Al Montathar Reserve, which covers around 9 square kilometres.