Distant Imagery, a UAE-based environmental technology firm, has been using drones made of wood and recyclable materials to plant millions of mangrove seeds across Abu Dhabi. The innovative drone planting technology has been supported and adopted by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and has seen successful partnerships with entities like ADNOC, ENGIE, and Mubadala Energy. The drones are all locally made and designed to be sustainable, with 3.5 million mangrove seeds planted in 2023 alone.
The use of drones for mangrove reforestation is a key nature-based solution in the fight against climate change as it stores up to 10 times more carbon. Distant Imagery has covered various areas in Abu Dhabi, such as Mirfa coastal lagoon, Al Nouf, Ruwais, Mirfa, and Al Hameem, enabling large-scale reforestation efforts. The drones are custom-built with tanks specifically engineered for mangrove restoration and are capable of pushing out seeds at a speed of 80km/hour for precise planting.
The success of the project is monitored and maintained through regular monitoring and replenishment exercises. Distant Imagery follows an ecological restoration approach to mangrove planting, focusing on site selection, natural patterns, and seed planting methods. The project has seen a high success rate, with plans to expand the drone fleet and design for more efficient planting. Volunteers, including students and community members, are also engaged in the fieldwork, helping with seed collection, germination, and monitoring of planted areas.
Distant Imagery is not only empowering communities in Abu Dhabi but also in Tonga, Madagascar, and Brazil by teaching them how to build and operate drones for reforestation efforts. The goal is to create self-sufficient communities that work together to plant mangroves and scale up their operations. Plans are in place for three more community projects, including one in Indonesia, with a focus on knowledge exchange and sustainability. The firm is looking for additional partners to join in this impactful environmental adventure and expand their reach in the coming years.
