Rehoming nature

AD Ports wants to build on the the highly successful Khalifa Port Coral Relocation project announced at the start of 2021 which wants to examine best global practices and enhance future projects, both in the Middle East and around the world.

“As an organisation driven by innovation that is dedicated to the enhancement of our operations, and also preservation of the environment and adoption of sustainable practices, we are proud to be supporting this vital coral relocation research study,” said Eiman Al Khalaqi, Vice President of Innovation, AD Ports Group.

“In addition to sponsoring this study, AD Ports Group’s Innovation Team is also actively participating, serving as advisors and leveraging our networking capability to introduce best global practices to the endeavour, as well as inviting entrepreneurial talent to share their expertise and achieve project success.”

Protecting biodiversity

Spearheaded by Professor John A. Burt, Program Head of Environmental Studies and Associate Professor of Biology at NYUAD and sponsored by AD Ports Group’s Innovation Team, the research study is scheduled for completion by December 2023.

David Gatward, Acting Chief, Engineering & Technical Services, AD Ports Group, said that AD Ports Group is redoubling its efforts to ensure all growth is conducted sustainably, and in line with the highest international environmental standards. Our research agreement with New York University Abu Dhabi demonstrates our dedication and duty to safeguarding our unique marine biodiversity for future generations.

“In addition to exploring best global practices associated with coral relocation and its long-term impact on local aquatic life in the Middle East, New York University Abu Dhabi will work closely with AD Ports Group to help us develop our in-house expertise that will enable us to lead potential reef relocation projects in the near-future,” he said.

During the study, AD Ports Group’s staff will also have the opportunity to participate in several training workshops and field training exercises to gain invaluable first-hand experience of coral relocation practices.

Unveiled in February 2021, the Khalifa Port Coral Relocation project facilitated in close collaboration with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), has seen the transfer of hundreds of corals from the northern revetment to the eastern breakwater of Khalifa Port.