Abu dhabi: The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), in collaboration with the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has launched the Nature X Abu Dhabi initiative, aimed at enhancing and accelerating efforts to conserve, monitor, and restore ecosystems through the use of cutting-edge technologies, innovations, and artificial intelligence tools. This initiative includes participation from a host of local and international partners.
According to Emirates News Agency, the launch was announced during the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress 2025, hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 9-15 October. The initiative's pavilion highlighted several innovative projects developed in collaboration with EAD's partners. One notable project is a large-scale effort to restore mangrove habitats, undertaken in cooperation with Nabat Company. This project employs artificial intelligence and drone technology to gather and analyze high-resolution data for optimized mangrove planting and monitoring.
Also featured was an advanced AI-powered autonomous robot vehicle developed with Micropolis Robotics. This robot is designed for environmental monitoring and vegetation restoration, equipped to till soil, conduct irrigation, and utilize drones for monitoring and seed-scattering tasks.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, emphasized that the Nature X Abu Dhabi initiative reflects their commitment to leveraging scientific and technological innovations for environmental conservation and international cooperation. Shahab Issa Abu Shahab, Director General of ATRC, highlighted the initiative's role in addressing climate change by integrating advanced technology and environmental data to set new standards for climate action globally.
The initiative also showcased the Delma Fish farming project, which uses AI to manage offshore cage farms by monitoring water quality and fish health to optimize growth conditions. A collaborative project with Aqua Bridge Holding and EANAN Al Samma UAV introduced a drone that automates fish feeding, enhancing growth rates and reducing operational risks in aquaculture.
The Fish AI project was another highlight, utilizing artificial intelligence to identify fish species in real time, providing crucial data for marine resource management. Additionally, an advanced autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) developed by the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) was presented. This AUV, equipped with AI-powered sensors and cameras, is capable of producing detailed maps of marine habitats, aiding in the conservation of marine resources.
Nature X Abu Dhabi brings together numerous strategic partners, including the Prime Minister's Office, the Ministry of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, the Mubadala ACCESS Program, Space 42, Technology Innovation Institute (TII), and several universities and companies such as Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, United Arab Emirates University, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, New York University Abu Dhabi, Nabat, Aqua Bridge Holding, EANAN Al Samma, and Micropolis Robotics.