Doha: The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) signed a cooperation program with ExxonMobil Research Qatar Ltd. to study biodiversity and prepare seabed maps in the northwestern areas of the State of Qatar, as part of the memorandum of understanding signed between the two sides in 2023.
According to Qatar News Agency, the program was signed in the presence of HE Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, with Dr. Ibrahim Abdul Latif Al Maslamani representing MOECC and Dr. Easa Al Musleh representing ExxonMobil Research Qatar Ltd. This cooperation aims to study and classify marine biodiversity using environmental DNA technology and prepare accurate seabed maps to support marine ecosystem protection.
The program includes conducting field surveys, collecting environmental samples, and using remote sensing techniques and high-resolution satellite imagery. It also involves utilizing bathymetric data from LiDAR technology and conducting temporal analysis of environmental changes in the region.
MOECC, represented by the Department of Environmental Monitoring and Inspection, will conduct a preliminary environmental survey to assess seawater and seabed sediment quality before the project starts, using these results as a baseline.
Dr. Ibrahim Abdul Latif Al Maslamani highlighted the program's role in supporting specialized scientific studies and protecting marine ecosystems. He emphasized the importance of studying the northwestern areas and preparing seabed maps to support environmental monitoring and provide data for sustainable marine habitat management.
Dr. Easa Al Musleh confirmed the program's reflection of ongoing cooperation with MOECC and ExxonMobil's commitment to using modern technologies to support marine environmental protection. He stated that the project will produce specialized scientific outputs, including a biodiversity report, digital seabed maps, and geographic information system data.
In a related context, MOECC and ExxonMobil Research Center Qatar announced the completion of a research project on mangrove trees in Qatar, identifying several coastal sites suitable for cultivation. The project combined data analysis, field studies, and modeling techniques to assess Qatari coasts and identify suitable locations for mangrove growth, with Al Reem Reserve as a high-priority area.
The memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 aims to enhance scientific research cooperation, offer technical advice, and implement research projects supporting ecosystem protection in Qatar.