Initiative to plant more than 1,000 Ghaf trees in Al Wathba area

TAQA Water Solutions has signed a contract with Royal Gardens Agricultural Contracting Company to plant more than 1,000 Ghaf trees around the main pumping station of the strategic tunnel in Al Wathba.

It will be irrigated entirely using recycled water from TAQA’s advanced wastewater treatment facilities, in a move aimed at environmental conservation and sustainable water management.

Each tree can live for up to 120 years, meaning the forest will be able to absorb about 42,000 tons of carbon dioxide over its lifetime, contributing to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing greening efforts in Abu Dhabi.

TAQA Water Solutions has set a regional record by recycling 80% of the water used in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and aims to reach 100% recycled water use by implementing its plans to increase its utilization across broader sectors, in line with the objectives of the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, which aims to reduce total demand for water resources by 21%, increase the reuse of treated water to 95%, and contribute to achieving the country’s strategic goals for climate neutrality by 2050.

“When completed, the Ghaf tree planting initiative in Al Wathba will be a prime example of how wastewater can contribute to afforestation efforts in urban and suburban areas, building a more sustainable future for Abu Dhabi and the UAE,” said Eng. Ahmed Al Shamsi, Managing Director and CEO of TAQA Water Solutions. “Ghaf trees are an essential part of supporting the vital ecosystem, and we are proud to play a key role in preserving the country’s most important natural resources and highlighting more green landmarks in the country, thanks to the recycled water we provide through sustainable water solutions.”

For his part, Dr. Ahmed Al Sharafi, CEO of Royal Gardens Agricultural Contracting Company, said: “Ghaf trees hold a special place in the UAE’s natural heritage, and we look forward to contributing to this initiative that will enhance the beauty of Abu Dhabi’s landmarks and support biodiversity for years to come.”