A fund in Abu Dhabi surpasses a $25 million milestone in aiding threatened species

Throughout its $25 million in project assistance, the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund has helped to uncover 1,678 new species and subspecies. Targeting some of the most vulnerable species in the world, the fund has funded 183 conservation initiatives in around 65 countries so far this year. As an illustration, consider the Emirati leaf-toed gecko (Asaccus caudivolvulus), which was formerly believed to be in danger of going extinct. However, despite significant development in the region, an expedition found that 52 of the severely endangered geckos are still found on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates.

The discovery, which was made public in September as part of a fund-supported effort, gave hope for the survival of the endangered species. At the time of the rediscovery of a species previously thought to be extinct, Nicolas Heard, the acting director-general of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, expressed relief and enthusiasm for nature and biodiversity enthusiasts. Launched in 2008 by President Sheikh Mohamed, the fund has supported 2,700 critical conservation projects globally. When the first grants were awarded in June 2009, the fund aimed to provide accessible and practical financing for locally appropriate species conservation projects. Over $25 million later, the fund has made a significant impact by supporting nearly 2,000 threatened species across various geographies, conservation actions, and capacity development initiatives.

In light of the alarming threat to one million animal and plant species facing extinction, according to a 2019 UN-backed report, the fund's work has gained even more significance. Its diverse projects include assessing threats to Pakistan's fishing cat, supporting nest protection for the rare cherry-throated tanager bird in Brazil, and conducting a comprehensive island-wide survey for the critically endangered tamaraw in the Philippines.

The fund's initial grant in 2009 focused on the endangered Egyptian tortoise in North Sinai, emphasizing engagement with local communities for holistic conservation efforts. Basem Motwaly, a recipient of the grant, highlighted the project's role in investing in the future of the Egyptian tortoise and its habitat. The fund's approach goes beyond financial contributions, promoting a deeper understanding of the species population and facilitating targeted conservation measures through photo identification.

Individual grants of up to $25,000 are offered by the fund for practical projects conserving animal, plant, or fungi species. As biodiversity faces a crisis, the fund aims to reach the $50 million milestone soon through increased funding and collaborations with other organizations. Managing director Razan Al Mubarak emphasized the fund's commitment to addressing the planet's biodiversity challenges.