Bahrain is making significant strides in environmental protection, climate action, and sustainable development through a series of robust national policies, international collaborations, and community-driven efforts.
These initiatives reflect the kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding natural resources and ecosystems for future generations, in alignment with global climate goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda.
Guided by the vision of the kingdom’s leadership, Bahrain has positioned itself as a regional leader in environmental stewardship. The initiatives are driven by Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the King’s Personal Representative and President of the Supreme Council for Environment (SCE).
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A national commitment to environmental sustainability
As part of its environmental agenda, Bahrain marks February 4 each year as National Environment Day, reaffirming its commitment to building a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment aligned with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Sheikh Abdullah emphasized Bahrain’s growing reputation as a proactive and respected player in global environmental protection efforts.
One of Bahrain’s major achievements is the implementation of the National Water Strategy 2021–2030, which supports SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation). The strategy focuses on integrated resource management, wastewater treatment and reuse, and smart solutions to improve water efficiency.
It forms part of the government’s broader commitment for 2023–2026 and is being executed in cooperation with the Ministry of Oil and Environment.
Climate goals and carbon neutrality
Bahrain has pledged to cut carbon emissions by 30 percent by 2035 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2060. A key step in this direction was the launch of the Bahrain Mangroves initiative in December 2024, which has already doubled the kingdom’s mangrove coverage through advanced, sustainable cultivation techniques.
In addition to climate mitigation, the Supreme Council for Environment continues to introduce legislation and national initiatives to promote environmental sustainability, support green technologies, and protect Bahrain’s biodiversity. These efforts include:
- Safe disposal of industrial and hazardous waste
- Rehabilitation of polluted land
- Reuse of treated wastewater in agriculture and landscaping
- Protection of endangered marine species like dolphins, sea turtles, and dugongs
- Conservation of rare wild birds and prevention of illegal hunting
The SCE also enforces energy efficiency regulations, green building codes, ozone layer protection protocols, and chemical safety standards, while promoting environmental awareness across both public and private sectors.
Public awareness and global cooperation
To increase environmental literacy, Bahrain launched a national campaign titled “Sustainable Water – Every Drop Has a Story” in collaboration with the UN Environment Program. Spanning four months, the campaign reached communities across the kingdom through public events and educational initiatives, highlighting the critical role of water in sustainable development.
Dr. Mohammad bin Dainah, Minister of Oil and Environment and Bahrain’s Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, reiterated that environmental responsibility begins with awareness and ends with action. He stressed that sustainable behavior is key to preserving Bahrain’s ecosystems and natural heritage.
A model for regional sustainability
Through its integrated efforts in environmental protection, water management, and climate action, Bahrain continues to align with global strategies while reinforcing local resilience.
Authorities called on the international community to strengthen cooperation and share responsibilities in combating climate change, expanding green spaces, and securing a sustainable, biodiverse future.
The kingdom’s environmental efforts reflect a growing national consciousness, where government action is matched by active community participation. Together, these elements underscore Bahrain’s unwavering commitment to building a more sustainable and environmentally secure future – locally, regionally, and globally.
