Cabinet Resolution No.18 of 2018 on local plant farming and nature conservation. Country/Territory United Arab Emirates Document type Legislation Date 2018 Source FAO, FAOLEX Subject Cultivated plants, Wild species & ecosystems Keyword Protection of environment Plant protection Biodiversity Planting material/seeds Crops/grasses Plant production Protection of habitats Wild flora Geographical area Middle East, Near East and North Africa, Persian Gulf Entry into force notes This Resolution enters into force the day after its publication in the Official Gazette. Abstract This Resolution consisting of 9 articles aims at (i) preserving and rehabilitating the natural habitats of local plants; and (ii) promoting the participation of different groups of society in improving the environment and conserving biodiversity. In coordination with relevant local authorities, the team will identify crops that can thrive in the UAE’s arid environment and allocate plots of land for the cultivation of local plants. Furthermore, it will appoint partners from the government as well as private nurseries to supply seeds and saplings, and identify procedures to distribute them, along with guidelines on their cultivation. The Resolution also prohibits some actions, such as (i) acts that would damage the ecological balance and biodiversity of the natural environment, including the cutting off, burning, or destruction of any local tree, shrub or grass; and (ii) damage and destruction to geological formations and natural habitats of local plants. Full text Arabic Website www.moccae.gov.ae