Terra, the World’s Living Wonder, proudly announced the opening of Jane Goodall’s Pollinator Garden, an ecological sanctuary designed to inspire environmental stewardship and elevate the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem. This Garden is a core component of Terra’s broader mission to awaken minds, inspire hearts and to drive meaningful action to ensure a sustainable and thriving future for all.
“Jane Goodall’s Pollinator Garden is a powerful symbol of how we, as stewards of the earth, must all play a part in ensuring a healthy future for our planet,” said Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai. “This garden reflects Terra’s ongoing commitment to fostering sustainability and biodiversity while raising awareness of the essential role of pollinators, particularly bees, in supporting the balance of our ecosystems. This is in line with Dubai’s leadership in championing conservation and its dedication to safeguarding ecosystems as a cornerstone of a sustainable future.”
The Garden’s journey began in 2019 with the discovery of a small hive of 2,000 UAE-native apis mellifera bees at Terra. Working closely with the Beekeepers Foundation, these bees were carefully nurtured and reintroduced to the Garden in October 2024. In just three months, the population has grown to over 30,000 bees across two thriving hives. The hives, integrated into Terra’s pollinator-friendly ecosystem, highlight the importance of supporting native species and biodiversity. “This garden exemplifies how creating environments that support local wildlife can lead to powerful, restoration of nature,” said Marjan.
Jane Goodall PhD, DBE elaborated, “I am deeply moved to see this Garden come to life as it embodies the critical connection between humans and the natural world. Bees are our world’s unsung heroes, and we must continue to support and protect them. This garden will play a role in raising awareness of the importance of pollinators amongst the public. The garden also underscores the deep partnership between Terra and Roots & Shoots UAE and our common mission to empower the next generation to respect, protect and restore the environment. By engaging young minds, we can nurture environmental stewards who will lead the way in creating a more sustainable and harmonious world.”
100 Hives, 100 Schools: Inspiring the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders
In conjunction with Jane Goodall’s Pollinator Garden, Terra announced the launch of the 100 Hives, 100 Schools initiative. This ambitious program aims to install beehives in 100 schools across the UAE, providing students with hands-on learning experiences about the vital role of pollinators in our ecosystems. By engaging young minds in caring for and maintaining these hives, Terra hopes to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders and advocates for biodiversity. The initiative will encourage students to connect with nature, gain a deeper understanding of pollinator conservation, and take proactive steps towards a more sustainable future and will be supported by Roots and Shoots UAE
The announcement is part of a three-day programme with the world-renowned ethologist and environmentalist: Pollinate Change, Inspire Tomorrow. Jane Goodall PHD, DBE will also be available for an exclusive live Q&A for the public on January 28th, 2025, at 6:00 pm in the Terra Auditorium. For entry to the event, you are required to register and present a valid Terra ticket.
Terra
Terra – The World’s Living Wonder- Is one of the UAE’s icons of sustainability and a hub to drive climate action, environmental innovation and increase awareness about sustainability, biodiversity and conservation. Born from the vision of a world where nature and humanity coexist in harmony, Terra invites visitors on an inspiring journey to discover environmentally responsible choices to protect our planet and witness how small, everyday actions can make a significant impact on the Earth. It is a living embodiment of sustainability through its structure that produces its own energy and water and its mission to awaken minds, inspire hearts and drive meaningful action to ensure a sustainable and thriving future for all.
Roots & Shoots (UAE)
Roots & Shoots is a global initiative founded by Dr. Jane Goodall that empowers young people to take action in their communities. Founded in 1991, the program is active in over 65 countries and has inspired countless students to engage in projects that benefit animals, people, and the environment. In January 2024, the Roots & Shoots UAE office was established at Terra, Expo City Dubai. Since the launch of Roots & Shoots UAE there has been a 20% increase in the number of schools involved in these initiatives and engagement has soared by 50%, demonstrating the growing impact and interest in sustainability programs across the UAE. Programmes hosted by both Terra and Roots & Shoots UAE have collectively reached over 60,000 students in 2024.
