In the field of scientific research

First section: Scientific research

• The Center of Scientific Consultations and Studies for Natural Reserves has conducted and published 8 scientific research papers in 4 international peer-reviewed journals with a global reputation:

• Stochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment (Q1 WOS)

• Environmental Science and Pollution Research (Q1 WOS)

• Environmental Monitoring and Assessment (Q3 WOS)

• Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries (Q3 Scopus)

The presented research focused on five distinct applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies to support sustainability efforts in nature conservation and biodiversity. Examples include, but are not limited to:

A cost-effective and efficient early warning system was created using Landsat satellite images to enable fishery managers and policymakers to predict potential fish productivity in Lake Qarun, Egypt, and monitor the environmental conditions there continuously.

Considering Egypt's plan to develop ecotourism within the Zaranik Protected Area (along the northeastern Mediterranean coast of Egypt), it became essential to ensure a true balance between the environmental integrity of the reserve and its economic development to maintain its sustainability. However, the Zaranik Reserve lacked studies assessing its ability to withstand sea level rise due to coastal erosion. Therefore, coastal vulnerability maps for the Zaranik Reserve were created as a guideline to help identify strategies for adapting to the issue of sea level rise and mitigating the damage along the reserve's coast.

Along the northwestern Egyptian Mediterranean coast, a sand barrier is forming at the western entrance of Lake El Alamein, near the Marina El Alamein resort, at a rapid rate, which could lead to the deterioration of water quality in the lake. Satellite images and GIS were used to study the shoreline balance and measure the impacts of human activities on it.

A geospatial analysis was conducted to identify sources of heavy metal pollution in Lake Edku, examine the transfer of these heavy metals across three different parts of the Edku Lake ecosystem (water, sediments, and fish), and correlate this with potential impacts on human health, particularly the risk of non-carcinogenic health hazards from consuming three different types of lake fish.

Spatial mapping was integrated with statistical analysis to identify sources of heavy metal contamination in the agricultural soil of Qellin lands, evaluate the environmental pollution levels, and assess the potential risks (environmental and health) resulting from their concentrations.

Section Two: Collaboration with Donors to Support Research Projects

A cooperation agreement was signed with the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology to fund the research project “Rehabilitation of Bleached Coral Reef Communities in the Red Sea by Cultivating Heat-Resistant Species” with an amount of 905,000 Egyptian pounds.

Section Three: Collaboration with Springer International Publishing House

A collaboration was established with Springer International Publishing House to release an international book on the impact of climate change on aquatic environments. The book reviews the latest research and studies on the effects of global warming and climate change on rivers, lakes, marine reserves, and biodiversity loss. It proposes practical solutions for adaptation of climate change, such as integrated water resources management, ecosystem protection, and rational water usage. The book contributes to raising awareness about the importance of protecting water resources considering increasing climate challenges.

Community Service:

Community services were provided in collaboration with various organizations.

Internationally, the center participated in the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) as an environmental observer for the negotiation sessions. This participation contributed to:

Gaining insights into the latest developments and best global practices in climate change.

Sharing experiences with research centers from around the world.

Building partnerships and cooperation with research centers and international organizations relevant to the center’s field of work.

Consulting Services:

Conducted numerous environmental impact assessments for various projects.

Participated in establishing new protected areas.

Contributed to the development of management plans and action plans for protected areas.

Built capacity through seminars and training workshops.

Awareness and Media Achievements:

launched an environmental and climate literacy initiative for young people.

Participated in environmental events and exhibitions.

Raised awareness through media outlets and social media platforms.

1. Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency

2. The qualitative union of associations working in the field of environmental protection

3. National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences

4. Theodor Bilharz Research Institute

5. Institute of Marine Sciences in cooperation with the International Ocean Institute

6. University of Texas, USA

7. National Media Authority

1. Nature reserves in Egypt

2. Nature reserves in Egyptian law

3. The Environmental Dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

4. Egypt's Vision 2030 and the nature reserves

5. Digitization of nature reserves

6. The role of GIS in preserving biodiversity and nature reserves

7. Environmental Sustainability Standards Manual "Strategic Framework for Green Recovery"

8. Occupational health and safety in industrial companies and their role in preserving the environment and biodiversity

9. Eco-tourism in nature reserves