M42’s Environmental Sciences team has won the prestigious Biotechnology – Environmental Services Award at the Middle East Technology Excellence Awards 2024 for its groundbreaking initiative, Pioneering Marine Conservation: Advanced Genomic Sequencing and AI for Sustainable Biodiversity Management.
The award was a collaborative achievement, as M42 worked closely with its partners, the Environment
Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Bayanat, a UAE-based company specializing in geospatial data analytics
and AI solutions. This partnership demonstrates how cross-disciplinary collaboration can tackle complex
environmental challenges, bringing together expertise in genomics, environmental science and data
analysis.
The award highlights M42’s innovative approach to marine conservation, utilizing cutting-edge genomic
sequencing and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to monitor and manage marine ecosystems
sustainably. The project plays a vital role in protecting marine biodiversity by analyzing genetic data to
track species diversity and health while leveraging AI to predict and mitigate environmental threats. This
pioneering initiative is positioned to reshape the region’s approach to marine conservation, aligning
with global sustainability goals.
Commenting on the win, Dr. Wael Elamin, Medical Director, Environmental Sciences, M42 said: “We are
incredibly honored to receive this recognition. Our work in marine conservation is driven by a deep
commitment to sustainable environmental practices. Through the integration of genomic sequencing
and AI, we are creating more efficient and effective ways to preserve marine biodiversity, not just for
the UAE, but for the entire region and beyond. This award is a testament to our team’s dedication and
innovation. Our tech-enabled health solutions for people and the planet are enabling us to predict and
prevent health issues across the world and contribute to global efforts to counter the threats to our
oceans and environment.”
The team’s innovative project demonstrates the potential of biotechnology in environmental services
and reinforces M42’s commitment to reshaping the future of health in a sustainable manner with
technology as a key enabler. The award recognizes M42’s innovative use of AI-driven data analysis,
providing critical insights into marine ecosystem health, while supporting local and global efforts to
combat environmental degradation, aiming to make a lasting impact on biodiversity for generations to
come. The Middle East Technology Excellence Awards celebrate organizations that have made significant
strides in leveraging technology to drive transformation across industries. The awards highlight a diverse range of sectors and innovations, recognizing those at the forefront of technological advancement in the region.