ABU DHABI: Emirates Nature–WWF has introduced “Sprint for Change,” an engaging new summer initiative aimed at driving environmental action throughout the UAE. Aligned with the Year of Community, the series is part of the organisation’s broader Leaders of Change programme.
The series invites individuals, families, professionals, and youth to participate in a mix of expert-led online workshops, on-ground field activities, and community challenges. Through interactive formats, participants will tackle the key themes of the triple planetary crisis — climate change, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution — and explore real-life ways to incorporate sustainability into their lives.
Arabella Willing, Head of Conservation Outreach and Citizen Science at Emirates Nature–WWF, said the initiative offers a meaningful gateway into climate action. “Sprint for Change meets people wherever they are on their sustainability journey — whether beginners or experienced changemakers,” she said.
This year’s activities include a hands-on Herbarium workshop and independent citizen science tasks that can be completed from home. In addition, participants can view exclusive premieres of “Conservation Diaries” — a locally produced mini-documentary series highlighting conservation efforts across the UAE. Each screening is followed by a live Q&A session with experts and filmmakers.
The summer programme is designed to build practical conservation skills, such as native plant monitoring and waste auditing. These experiences aim to prepare participants for deeper involvement in future Leaders of Change field projects, where citizen scientists work directly with professionals on real conservation missions.
A new addition this year is the Leaders of Change Community Advisory Committee, which allows active members — contributing over 24 volunteer hours — to shape the direction of future programmes. Willing believes such platforms empower people to create a ripple effect of impact across communities.
