United Arab Emirates Support Sustainable Plant Production, Protection

Posted onAuthorChris Owen

  • Sustainable plant production is an agricultural approach that aims to meet food and fiber needs for the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. It involves maximizing yields while minimizing resource inputs, like water and fertilizers, through practices that are environmentally friendly, economically viable, and socially equitable. Key methods include using organic fertilizers, diversifying crops, protecting biodiversity, and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions
  • Global Technical Recognition from FAO: The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) received FAO’s first-ever Global Technical Recognition for its contributions to sustainable plant production and protection.
  • Focus on Climate-Resilient Agriculture: The recognition highlights ICBA’s leadership in developing sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture specifically for saline and arid environments.
  • Collaborative Impact and Founders’ Vision: ICBA acknowledges its scientists, partners, and the founding support from the Government of the United Arab Emirates and the Islamic Development Bank for their collective efforts towards food security and sustainability.
  • Long-standing Contributions and Future Strategy: For nearly 25 years, ICBA has advanced stress-tolerant crops and sustainable systems, and this recognition aligns with its 2024–2034 strategy to boost productivity and climate resilience through science-based solutions.

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) has achieved remarkable global technical recognition from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) for its outstanding leadership in sustainable plant production and protection. This prestigious acknowledgment was bestowed during FAO’s inaugural Global Technical Recognition Ceremony in Rome on October 15, 2025, as part of their 80th anniversary and World Food Day 2025 celebrations. This is truly a testament to ICBA’s pioneering spirit and dedication to innovation.

Dr. Qu Dongyu, FAO Director-General, proudly presented the recognition to Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA. This honor specifically celebrates ICBA’s significant leadership in developing sustainable, climate-resilient agriculture within challenging saline and arid environments. As the very first Global Technical Recognition by the FAO, this initiative beautifully highlights institutions that are actively transforming agrifood systems through impactful, science-driven innovation. Held under the inspiring theme “Hand in hand for better food and a better future,” the ceremony joyfully marked progress towards sustainable production, efficient resource utilization, and enhanced climate resilience, perfectly aligning with FAO’s aspirational Four Betters.

Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi expressed deep gratitude for this recognition, emphasizing that it powerfully underscores the collaborative strength of science and innovation in tackling global agricultural challenges. She graciously dedicated this wonderful achievement to the visionary founders of the Center—the Government of the United Arab Emirates and the Islamic Development Bank—whose unwavering support laid ICBA’s strong foundation. This recognition also beautifully highlights the trust and commitment of their invaluable partners and funders, who empower ICBA to advance groundbreaking research, foster strong partnerships, and facilitate knowledge exchange. These efforts collectively empower communities, strengthen livelihoods, and make magnificent contributions to global food security and sustainability.

For nearly 25 years, ICBA has been a beacon of progress, tirelessly advancing sustainable plant production systems that wonderfully improve soil health, optimize precious water use, and significantly boost productivity. Through their dedicated work in conserving and utilizing diverse crop germplasm, ICBA has successfully developed stress-tolerant crops, beautifully creating new opportunities for food and income security in regions bravely facing salinity and drought. Active in over 40 countries and proudly based in the United Arab Emirates, ICBA brilliantly leads efforts to integrate science, technology, and policy to creatively address water scarcity, soil degradation, and food insecurity. This recognition arrives as ICBA moves forward with its ambitious 2024–2034 strategy, which joyfully focuses on science-based solutions that powerfully boost productivity and climate resilience in arid and saline environments, while passionately strengthening global partnerships for a lasting, positive impact.