In a move to bolster environmental sustainability and biodiversity protection, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change launched the National Biodiversity Database of Qatar on Tuesday. The launch, via an interactive electronic platform, coincides with World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5.

The platform is designed to document and classify terrestrial and marine species, create accurate habitat maps, and track organisms’ spatial and temporal distribution. It serves as a vital scientific reference for decision-makers, researchers, and institutions in preparing environmental reports and shaping policy.

Minister of Environment and Climate Change, HE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, called the launch “a strategic milestone in Qatar’s environmental path,” highlighting the country’s commitment to sustainability and governance.

“Having a comprehensive and reliable national database is a strategic necessity and a key tool for monitoring environmental changes, policy formulation, and decision-making,” he said. “It also plays a role in enhancing Qatar’s standing in international environmental indices by providing accurate data to global organizations.”

He added that the database “aligns with the aspirations of Qatar National Vision 2030 and translates the directions of the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030 toward green transformation and enhanced environmental security.”

A ‘Principal User Document’ was signed during the launch with several institutions, including Qatar University, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and Qatar National Library, to promote broad institutional use of the data.

Undersecretary HE Eng. Abdulaziz bin Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud said the platform “enables accurate assessment of biodiversity… through scientifically supported descriptions with maps and illustrative images.” He noted it will improve Qatar’s environmental surveys and reporting under international agreements.

Assistant Undersecretary Dr. Ibrahim Abdul Latif Al Muslimani said the database represents “a qualitative leap in unifying environmental data and supporting the sustainable use of biological resources.”

Wildlife Development Department Director Youssef Ibrahim Al Hamar described it as a “comprehensive reference” and noted the Ministry trained a technical team to ensure smooth platform operations.