COP28 is focusing on ecosystems more than ever before – and renewing our relationship with nature. Mangroves are a key natural ally against climate change; they have an exceptional ability to sequester carbon. While protecting their communities from storm and flood damage is $65 billion a year worldwide. However, since 1996, 1.2 million hectares of mangroves have been lost. The Mangrove Breakthrough was approved today by 21 countries, which committed to securing 15 million hectares of mangroves globally by 2030.  “Locally in the UAE, our nation has always lived in a very harsh environment. My grandparents and our founding fathers had to protect and then restore nature. If the UAE has enabled success stories, we as a world can have more such stories,” he added. said HE Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency. The International Center for Mangrove Research was also launched today, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions, adapting to climate and protecting people and livelihoods.