For the longest time, climate action in Bahrain directly translated to beach cleanups. It is quite interesting to see the diversification of climate action within the country. From the initiative to plant various species of shrubbery and trees to stakeholders conducting research to figure out methods in relation to the preservation of natural resources. However, being a small island, we have a long way to go.
As much as the new initiatives are well-intentioned, we must be thinking about climate actions that would directly address our actions every day. For example, at one point, Bahrain was fast-forwarding to reducing its plastic consumption, however, after the initial hype, we see citizens revert back to practices that would put our previous campaigns to shame.
As much urging citizens to conduct themselves in an environment-friendly manner, is a preferred way of action within the country. We must start focusing on climate-friendly policies that can be enforced across sectors. We could take inspiration from other countries, including taking note of the significant strides that have been made by the government in UAE. The first step to addressing climate ambition is to understand that climate action rests within each of our everyday decisions. Government policies being introduced must include those that address these everyday issues.
Focusing on understanding the careful balance of ecosystems in the country would be the next step. Climate action must move beyond beach clean-ups and planting trees, and must also consider how the ecosystem around is maintained. That includes addressing issues that could be upsetting this balance, such as land reclamation activities, increased drilling for natural resources, emission standards, etc. In the past year, there was a splash across the nation when Bahrain had been chosen to build a facility for the production of vaccines.
While this could be an incredible step up for the empowerment of the Bahraini economic system, it would be a significant loss to the natural environment of the country. From the drain on the natural systems and resources used, to the waste that would be dumped. This facility could total the natural environment and threaten the existence of several rare species of flora and fauna in the country, especially marine fauna. This is just one example and there are many more that could be pointed out to show the damage that has been caused. It is important to understand that any project, initiative, framework, etc. set in place needs to align to global and national goals for climate action; and needs to have a separate framework that brings solutions for the potential damage the new initiative could bring.
Bahrain requires more commitment from its public and private stakeholders, and it must be put across to all that implementing these commitments would benefit all sectors of the country and be incredibly beneficial to all who live here. Climate ambition and climate action are two sides of the same coin, and for now, we need to use them together to see results that could change the way the country is viewed across global partnerships and agencies.
