Outlining the Challenges and Opportunities Facing the Unrecognized Conservation, Environmental, and Sustainability Industry in the Kingdom of Bahrain
摘要
The global and regional conservation, environmental, and sustainability industry is valued at $1.1 trillion, driven by various governmental and individual initiatives. Despite being an island rich in environmental resources and opportunities, Bahrain has largely overlooked the potential of this emerging industry, which could significantly contribute to achieving its 2030 and 2050 visions. To capitalize on this opportunity, Bahrain should consider introducing a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. This initiative would not only lay the groundwork for knowledge in the field but also address the current gap in the job market, which does not adequately recognize the need for skilled professionals in this sector. Through these revolving issues, a series of 3 questions were aimed to be investigated: What are the opportunities and challenges for the unrecognized industry of conservation, environmental and sustainability in Bahrain? How does a pioneering conservation, environmental and sustainability start-up face challenges in Bahrain? What are the potential initiatives that would align with the start-ups values in reconnecting the general public with nature? To address the identified issues, three surveys were conducted in Bahrain to assess public perception and interest in marine biology and environmental science, the demand for related degrees and purchasing behaviors for environmental activities. Additionally, field research collected further data, which was validated through interviews and focus groups. To conclude, the findings gathered from the different data sources suggest that the kingdom needs to take upon the opportunity discovered of establishing the conservation, environmental and sustainability industry and implementing a bachelor’s degree in environmental science that will assist in paving the way towards building national capacity within the kingdom and achieving Bahrain’s 2030 and 2050 vision to align with global and regional initiatives.