Exploring Nature and Faith: Highlights from the Qur’anic Botanic Garden’s Third International Forum

The Qur’anic Botanic Garden (QBG), part of Hamad Bin Khalifa University, recently wrapped up its Third International Forum. The theme was “The Role of Plant Conservation in Promoting Biodiversity and Environmental Preservation.”

This Forum celebrated Qatar Environment Day and aimed to raise awareness about the environment. It shared important educational messages about ecological conservation. The event stressed how crucial conservation organizations are in protecting plants and wildlife for a sustainable future.

Among the distinguished guests were HE the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, and Princess Basma bint Ali, who is the founder of the Royal Botanic Garden of Jordan. She delivered a keynote address during the opening of the Forum.

The event united 22 organizations from Qatar and beyond, bringing together over 40 representatives from government, international institutions, academics, and the private sector. The agenda included scientific discussions on pressing environmental issues, such as the threats to native plant ecosystems and laws regarding environmental protection. The Forum also served as a place to share knowledge and discover new technologies that support biodiversity.

A major highlight this year was QBG receiving international accreditation as a “Conservation Practitioner” from Botanic Gardens Conservation International. This achievement marks QBG as Qatar’s first accredited botanic garden and only the second in the Middle East, showcasing its commitment to plant conservation.

To strengthen ties locally and internationally, QBG signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Royal Botanic Garden of Jordan. This agreement focuses on collaboration in research, knowledge sharing, and workshops centered on plant conservation.

Fatima Saleh al-Khulaifi, director of QBG, expressed enthusiasm about the event. She noted it brought together experts to deepen discussions on environmental issues and foster global cooperation on sustainable solutions.

Throughout the Forum, QBG highlighted its innovative conservation programs. These include documenting and propagating native plants through techniques like seed germination and various propagation methods. There were also projects aimed at reintroducing native plants into their natural environments and rehabilitating rangelands in partnership with government bodies. Community education and awareness were emphasized, with programs showcasing the importance of education in achieving conservation goals.

An exhibition alongside the Forum displayed efforts from local and international groups dedicated to biodiversity and environmental preservation. The event concluded with key recommendations, stressing ongoing collaboration among environmental organizations. It highlighted the need for continued promotion of environmental awareness to protect plant resources and support biodiversity for future generations.