Doha, June 04 (QNA) - HE Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie affirmed that environmental protection in the State of Qatar is a firmly established national priority and an integrated framework closely linked to quality of life, the sustainability of resources and the security of future generations.

He noted that the State is continuing to strengthen an environmental approach based on proactive planning, scientific monitoring and the protection of natural resources, thereby enhancing its ability to achieve sustainable development.

In an exclusive interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), His Excellency said that World Environment Day, celebrated every year on June 5, serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the collective commitment to protecting Qatar's environment and safeguarding its natural resources, while encouraging the adoption of environmentally responsible practices in everyday life. He stressed that the environment is a national asset and a shared responsibility, one that calls for sustained public awareness and coordinated institutional efforts based on strategic planning, continuous monitoring and effective regulation.

Environmental conservation is no longer limited to protecting natural sites or reducing environmental violations. Rather, it has evolved into a comprehensive system that encompasses early monitoring, risk management, biodiversity conservation, tracking the impacts of climate change, and ensuring the responsible use of natural resources, Dr. Subaie said.

In this regard, His Excellency noted that the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change continues to implement its programs aimed at protecting terrestrial, marine, and atmospheric environments, while monitoring air, water, and soil quality. The Ministry also works to preserve natural habitats and vegetation cover, in addition to enhancing environmental monitoring systems to support data-driven decision-making based on accurate scientific evidence.

He indicated that the protection of the terrestrial environment is among the Ministry's top priorities, given the vital role of gardens, vegetation cover, and soil in maintaining ecological balance, combating desertification, and supporting biodiversity. He emphasized that efforts are ongoing to rehabilitate environmentally sensitive sites and curb practices that harm the terrestrial ecosystem.

He also stressed Qatar's commitment to safeguarding its marine environment, coastlines, and islands, recognizing them as key contributors to biodiversity. This is achieved by regulating activities in coastal and marine areas through measures that ensure the sustainable use of these sites while preserving their natural resources.

Furthermore, he explained that biodiversity conservation represents a central pillar of the country's environmental efforts, through the documentation of species and natural habitats, continuous monitoring of their status, and the implementation of programs designed to protect terrestrial, plant, and marine life.

In the same context, HE Minister of Environment and Climate Change highlighted Qatar's progress in developing its environmental monitoring system through advanced networks for tracking air, water, and soil quality, as well as radiation monitoring and early warning systems. These capabilities enable continuous assessment of environmental conditions and ensure that emerging issues are addressed through precise technical procedures.

The Ministry continuously monitors a wide range of environmental and radiological indicators around the clock through an integrated national system that relies on real-time data, technical analysis, and close coordination with the relevant authorities, he noted.

He added that the Ministry works in coordination with national stakeholders, as well as in cooperation with the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to exchange data and expertise and enhance technical preparedness.

On climate change, His Excellency affirmed that the State of Qatar remains committed to supporting international efforts to address its impacts by fulfilling its related obligations, reducing emissions, advancing adaptation programs, and strengthening national capacities in a manner that reflects the unique characteristics of Qatar's environment and its sustainable development priorities.

He also noted that Qatar's participation, represented by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, in the 31st Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31) - scheduled to be held in the Republic of Turkiye in November 2026, will provide an important platform to showcase the country's national efforts in emissions reduction, climate adaptation, and the development of environmental monitoring and data systems.

HE Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie concluded his statements by reaffirming Qatar's commitment to contributing to global efforts aimed at protecting the environment, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and achieving sustainable development. He stressed that environmental protection and climate action are inseparable priorities that require both strong national efforts and effective international cooperation. (QNA)