QBG to educate public on environmental conservation

Qur'anic Botanic Garden (QBG), a member of Hamad Bin Khalifa University will participate in the International Horticultural Exhibition Expo 2023 Doha.The event takes place at Al Bidda Park from October 2, 2023 to March 28, 2024 under the theme "Green Desert, Better Environment,” and brings countries and international organisations together to discuss topics covering modern agriculture, technology and innovation, environmental awareness, and sustainability.Fatima Saleh al-Khulaifi, manager, QBG said: "Expo 2023 Doha is an incredible opportunity for us to forge new partnerships with peers in the fields of environmental awareness and sustainability, while introducing ourselves to an international audience. QBG represents a new concept in botanical gardens, as it is the first-of-its-kind to exhibit plants mentioned in the Holy Qur'an and authentic Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH).”Mohamed Hassouna, horticultural specialist, QBG, said: "QBG's participation in this event reaffirms its leading position in advancing environmental consciousness, with a particular emphasis on conserving plant life. This commitment is exemplified through the rigorous application of scientific techniques in nurturing hundreds of plant species at QBG's Conservation Centre. Beyond mere participation, this involvement offers a valuable avenue to disseminate this knowledge and share technical expertise with the broader community.”QBG will host its own pavilion, organise workshops, and conduct seminars and panel discussions throughout the six-month event. Attractions include exhibits of plants mentioned in the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and their historical and religious significance, along with displays highlighting QBG’s conservation work. The pavilion, whose distinctive and creative design draws inspiration from the flowers of the Sidra tree, which holds cultural and heritage significance for the people of Qatar, will also feature a robot-guided tour highlighting the cultural uses of these plants, along with interactive areas that showcase the QBG’s exhibition spaces.QBG will host its third annual conference at Expo 2023 Doha, gathering approximately 200 stakeholders to discuss contemporary issues in the fields of botany and environmental sustainability. It will also mark Qatar Environment Day on February 26, 2024, with a discussion panel, featuring local and regional experts exchanging perspectives on the importance of this annual celebration.QBG will also conduct 49 workshops throughout the six-month event for adults and children, both as community workshops open to the public and special sessions for Qatar-based schools. The community workshops include lessons on several regional plant species, proper gardening techniques and use of local flora in recipes and traditional applications, while the school-focused activities will educate students on how to identify plants native to the region and the importance of environmental conservation and food security.