Pollinator Garden: Future of Sustainability at Expo

Jane Goodall Opens Pollinator Garden in Expo City

On January 27, 2025, in Dubai's Expo City, the Dr. Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden was inaugurated in a ceremonial event. World-renowned ethologist and conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall emphasized the crucial role pollinators play in our ecosystem, with a special focus on native bee species. The garden marks a significant step towards a sustainable future, concentrating on biodiversity preservation and environmental education.

Special Features of the Garden

The Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden is a dynamic ecological space aimed at preserving local flora and fauna while demonstrating ecological resilience in urban environments. The area hosts two bee hives with more than 15,000 individuals of the UAE-native Apis mellifera species. The garden has planted various plant species in symbiotic relationships with pollinators, ensuring habitat sustainability and boosting biodiversity.

The history of the bee colony began in 2019 when the group originally consisted of 2,000 individuals and grew to 30,000 after construction within three months. Through sustainable planning and habitat restoration measures, the garden plays a key role in protecting the ecosystem and raising awareness.

Protecting Bees

Dr. Jane Goodall highlighted that all bee species are excellent pollinators, but wild bees are particularly crucial for certain plants. "In some cases, wild bees are more effective in pollination than domestic bees as they have closer relationships with specific plant species," Goodall stated. She added that protecting pollinators includes safeguarding the plants they are symbiotically linked with.

Globally, bee populations are in grave danger due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Dr. Goodall pointed out that more countries are banning the most harmful pesticides, which pose risks not only to bees but also to human health.

"100 Hives, 100 Schools" Initiative

At the Expo City inauguration, the "100 Hives, 100 Schools" program was announced, aiming to install beehives on the grounds of 100 schools across the UAE. The initiative, supported by Roots & Shoots UAE, provides students with hands-on experience in pollinator protection, biodiversity monitoring, and honey testing.

The program aims to teach students the importance of ecological responsibility from a young age, encouraging them to actively participate in sustainability efforts. Dr. Goodall suggests that everyone can contribute to reducing environmental damage, such as by moderating consumption and alleviating poverty.

The Future of Sustainability in Dubai

The Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden and related initiatives set a perfect example of prioritizing sustainability in a modern urban environment. With this, Dubai Expo City demonstrates its commitment to green solutions and encourages the community to preserve nature.

For visitors, the garden provides not only a serene natural oasis in the heart of the city but also serves as an educational and inspirational resource for a sustainable future.