Environmental Trips to Wadi El Gemal and Elba Raise Awareness about the Importance of Nature Reserves and Contribute to Environmental Protection

Environmental Trips to Wadi El Gemal and Elba Raise Awareness About Egypt’s Nature Reserves and Support Environmental Protection

As part of Egypt’s World Environment Day celebrations, the New Egypt Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, organized environmental trips to the Wadi El Gemal and Elba nature reserves. A total of 158 participants, representing diverse age groups, took part in this initiative aimed at raising awareness, promoting ecotourism, and encouraging citizen participation in protecting Egypt’s rich natural heritage.

🏞️ The Importance of Nature Reserves

Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Egypt’s Minister of Environment, emphasized the critical role of such initiatives in educating the public — particularly children and youth — about environmental conservation. She stressed that these trips help instill values of volunteerism, teamwork, and stewardship of natural resources.

“Nature reserves like Wadi El Gemal and Elba represent not only our ecological and geological heritage but also vital marine and desert ecosystems that must be protected for future generations,” said Dr. Fouad.

🌿 Trip Highlights and Activities

📍 Wadi El Gemal Reserve

Participants explored the diverse natural and geological features of the reserve and learned about the significance of its designation as a protected area. A mangrove cleaning campaign was conducted with the participation of 76 youth aged 12–18, focusing on the importance of preserving coastal ecosystems and combating plastic waste.

📍 Elba Reserve

The trip to Elba involved 82 children and teens in a day of interactive environmental activities and recreation designed to educate them about the reserve’s unique biodiversity. A beach cleanup campaign was also held on Hurghada Beach, raising awareness about the threat of plastic pollution to marine life.

🤝 Strengthening Community Engagement in Environmental Work

The Ministry of Environment shared the success of the initiative on its official Facebook page, stating:

“These environmental trips are part of a broader cooperation protocol with the New Egypt Foundation for Community Development, aimed at enhancing environmental awareness and empowering citizens to play an active role in environmental protection.”

Under this protocol, both parties have committed to:

• Launching pilot projects and community initiatives

• Integrating society into environmental volunteerism

• Promoting eco-education and capacity building

• Encouraging sustainable ecotourism

• Expanding green spaces across Egypt

🌍 Toward a Greener Future

These trips reflect Egypt’s growing commitment to sustainability, public education, and climate resilience. By involving young people and communities in on-the-ground conservation work, the country takes a proactive step toward ensuring its natural reserves remain protected and appreciated for generations to come.