Noora Jamsheer, CEO of the Bahrain Institute of Pearls and Gemstones (DANAT), has received a delegation from Arabian Gulf University (AGU), led by Dr. Saad bin Saud Al Fuhaid, President of the University, during a visit to the institute’s laboratories to review progress on the ‘Blue Carbon’ research project and ongoing natural pearl studies.
The delegation was briefed on natural pearl testing processes at DANAT laboratories, including data analysis mechanisms and advanced scientific techniques used to study pearl properties and document findings.
DANAT-AGU Blue Carbon project
The visit forms part of ongoing cooperation between DANAT and AGU under the ‘Blue Carbon’ project, which examines the carbon sequestration capacity of pearl oyster habitats and seagrass meadows as part of wider efforts to understand the role of marine ecosystems in addressing climate change.
Marine surveys and sample collection for the study have been completed, while data analysis is currently underway ahead of the final research report.
The study also continues research and analysis of natural pearls at DANAT’s laboratories, reinforcing the status of natural pearls as a sustainable ‘green gem‘ derived from a renewable natural resource and closely linked to Bahrain’s cultural heritage.
Dr. Saad bin Saud Al Fuhaid, President of Arabian Gulf University, praised progress in the joint research project studying the impact of climate change on pearl oyster populations and seagrass habitats in Bahrain, saying it reflects the importance of aligning academic research with regional environmental priorities.
Image credits: BNA | Cropped by GBN
He said scientific research remains a key pillar of the university’s strategy, with specialized research chairs supporting studies that address Gulf community priorities and provide practical, knowledge-based solutions to emerging challenges. He added that the Shaikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Chair in Geographic Information Systems has contributed significantly to sustainability and long-term development research.
Dr. Al Fuhaid also commended the advanced technical capabilities of DANAT laboratories in supporting specialized environmental research and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to expanding research partnerships and strengthening scientific infrastructure to support sustainable development.
Noora Jamsheer CEO – DANAT
“We are proud of our collaboration with AGU, which reflects the importance of research partnerships in advancing scientific understanding of the marine environments associated with natural pearls. Through the Blue Carbon project, this collaboration aligns with DANAT’s efforts to support scientific research that highlights the environmental, cultural and economic value of Bahraini pearls. Natural pearls are not only an integral part of Bahrain’s identity and heritage but also represent a sustainable natural resource that can be studied through a modern scientific lens. The progress achieved in the analysis and research stages at DANAT’s laboratories reflects the institute’s advanced technical capabilities in supporting current environmental studies.”
Noora Jamsheer said DANAT aims to use the research findings to support practical solutions to global climate challenges and advance the Kingdom’s sustainable development goals.
