ABU DHABI — The International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), the global leader in pre-emptive species conservation, will share its expertise, knowledge and success with the world at the Earth Optimism Digital Summit 2020, a digital summit that will highlight global success stories from diverse sectors on the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. IFHC, backed by more than four decades of conservation excellence, is the sole entity from the Middle East invited to participate in the event, tagged ‘a masterclass in saving the planet,’ hosted by the illustrious Smithsonian Institution. Majid Al Mansouri, IFHC managing director, is one of 100 industry leaders and changemakers who will deliver sessions to demonstrate that despite huge challenges, environmental progress is possible when solutions are shared and replicated. During his session, Al Mansouri will outline how science and innovation are shaping the success of the Fund’s conservation efforts to secure a sustainable future for the Houbara bustard. The session will shine a light on how IFHC is pioneering global dialogue on species conservation having fostered collaboration with more than 22 countries across the Houbara’s migratory range, which spans from Morocco in the west to Mongolia in the east. The audience will also hear how IFHC continues to succeed in its goal to achieve viable Houbara populations across the species’ range because the bespoke pre-emptive conservation model is supported by six strategic pillars: sustained breeding and release; international affairs; culture and heritage; legislation, regulation and enforcement; safeguarding wild reserves, and education. “The Earth Optimism Digital Summit is an opportunity to connect, share solutions and be inspired as we come together to celebrate the Earth and plot a sustainable route for the future. It is an honor to be representing UAE, Middle East and global conservation efforts,” said Al Mansouri. “When I think about the work we are doing with international collaborations, I am not only optimistic about the future of the Houbara, but also conservation generally. “The Houbara program was initiated by the visionary late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, to address dwindling wild populations. “It was a program that many thought was impossible to achieve in the 1970s. Yet today, as we continue his efforts, it is now one of the world’s largest conversation programs. That is cause for optimism.” The IFHC session, titled ‘View from the Middle East’ takes place on Friday, April 24 at 8:30 p.m. UAE. — SG