Doha: Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future, a member of Qatar Foundation, and UN-Habitat Regional Office for Arab States have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Arab Ministerial Forum on Housing and Urban Development. This strategic partnership aims to address sustainability challenges in hot and arid regions.

According to Qatar News Agency, the agreement focuses on collaboration in environmental and socio-economic sustainability, food security, access to green spaces, and integrating traditional knowledge into modern sustainability practices. It outlines a framework for cooperation through shared knowledge, strategic events, and co-developed research projects.

Initially, the organizations will collaborate on developing a mangrove restoration best-practice guide to support efforts in rehabilitating coastal ecosystems. Future projects include creating thematic knowledge hubs and additional best-practice guides on regenerative urban green spaces, air-quality adaptation, traditional knowledge systems, and food security.

The MoU also includes provisions for UN-Habitat’s involvement in the Arid Cities Network (ACN), a global platform dedicated to the sustainability and resilience of cities in hot and dry climates.

Executive Director of Earthna, Dr. Gonzalo Castro de la Mata, expressed that this agreement is significant for addressing environmental challenges in urban areas. He emphasized the potential impact of the partnership in advancing climate resilience through knowledge exchange and developing best practice guidelines and knowledge hubs.

Regional Director for Arab States at UN Habitat, Rania Hedeya, remarked that this agreement signifies the beginning of a robust partnership. She highlighted the potential for accelerating the adoption of best practices across the region, focusing on environmental protection, knowledge sharing, and sustainable urban development.