Bahrain sets sights on boosting green spaces with new tree-planting drive

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Authorities here are set to embark on an extensive plan in an ambitious bid to further boost Bahrain’s green cover.

The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture is spearheading this initiative, focusing on planting resilient tree species tailored to thrive in Bahrain’s unique climate.

This effort is part of Bahrain’s larger environmental commitment made at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26).

The Kingdom pledged to cut emissions by 30% by 2035 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.

Key components of these goals include quadrupling mangrove coverage and doubling tree coverage across Bahrain.

To achieve these targets, Bahrain unveiled its National Plan for Afforestation (2022-2035), which aims to increase the tree population from 1.8 million to 3.6 million by 2035.

This translates to planting 270,000 trees annually, underscoring the critical role of trees and mangroves in combating climate change.

The current move is also backed by the ministry issuing a tender seeking supplier for a variety of tree species.

These trees, with an overall height of 1000mm, will be nursery-grown in containers of 5 litres with a calliper not less than 5-6mm, the tender says, offering a five-month contract.

They must be free from disease and harmful insects, with well-branched, healthy growth.

The tender process requires a BD500 bond valid for 180 days and necessitates the submission of compliance and price determination certificates.

Failure to submit these documents will result in disqualification.

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can benefit from a 10% preference during the financial evaluation stage if they present the “SMEs Classification Certificate.”

As Bahrain gears up for this large-scale greening project, the initiative is poised to transform the Kingdom’s landscape, enhancing its natural beauty and contributing significantly to global climate efforts.

Micro, small and medium enterprises are eligible to obtain 10% preference in the financial evaluation stage, when submitting the “SMEs Classification Certificate” during bidding for this tender.