Rahimah Bay Area Biodiversity Baseline Survey and Conservation Strategy for a Sustainable & Circular Tomorrow

ABSTRACT The objective of this environmental initiative is to develop a comprehensive management and conservation plan for the Ras Tanura Producing Department (RTPD), Rahimah Bay Biodiversity Protected Area in Saudi Arabia, a unique and diverse habitat comprising terrestrial, coastal, and marine ecosystems. The aim is to preserve the area's ecological integrity and promote biodiversity conservation and circular economy, aligning with the Saudi Aramco's strategic objectives and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The project demonstrates a modern, sustainable, and multi-disciplinary approach to target biodiversity threats and transform them into opportunities to improve the Rahimah Bay Biodiversity Protected Area's ecosystem. The analytical approach consists of the following methodology: Conduct a thorough survey to establish a baseline understanding of the area's biodiversity, including literature review, habitat mapping, general terrestrial surveys, marine survey, E-DNA sampling, bird surveys, breeding bird surveys, non-breeding bird surveys, wetland bird surveys, and migratory bird surveys.Evaluate the area's ecological characteristics, identify threats, and assess ecosystem health using remote sensing technology, ground truthing exercises, and species inventories.Develop targeted conservation strategies and management plans based on the survey outcomes, including the identification of conservation priorities and the development of a Biodiversity Action Plan.Implement initiatives to enhance biodiversity based on extensive biodiversity baseline survey, promote environmental awareness, and align with the company's strategic objectives, such as mangrove plantation, mangrove nursery construction, beach cleanup initiatives and coral reef deployment. The conservation and management of the Rahimah Bay Biodiversity Protected Area has several positive environmental impacts. First, it helps preserve the area's unique biodiversity, including various animals, such as birds, turtles, and foxes. Second, it promotes environmental sustainability and reduces the environmental impact of human activities on the natural environment. In addition, it supports the company's commitment to environmental stewardship and sets a precedent for similar conservation efforts in the region. Finally, it contributes to the preservation of the area's ecological integrity and promotes the well-being of local communities. The implementation of this unique innovative approach at the Rahimah Bay Biodiversity Protected Area demonstrates a lead-by-example role in environmental aspects. The corporate commitment as a global oil and gas producer toward the environment was clearly illustrated in this initiative. Building a circular environmental culture that contributes to combating climate change and sustaining the environment falls under the company's corporate strategies. The development of a comprehensive management and conservation plan is not a new concept, but the use of a multi-disciplinary approach and innovative methods, such as remote sensing technology, E-DNA sampling and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), is a sustainable and effective solution. The approach can also be proposed for other conservation areas, where biodiversity preservation is a priority. This environmental initiative is a win-win solution that can benefit both the environment and human development.