Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi Introduces New Regulation For Soil Quality Management

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has introduced a new regulation focused on soil quality in Abu Dhabi. This regulation aims to ensure sustainable soil management, preserving its essential functions and services for current and future needs. It also seeks to minimise the harm caused by soil pollution.

The regulation aligns with Law No. (16) of 2005, which reorganises EAD's authority to issue regulations and executive decisions. This law is designed to mitigate pollution and safeguard the quality of air, water, soil, and natural resources while ensuring their optimal use for human and environmental protection.

The regulation outlines specific requirements for soil quality in terrestrial protected areas. It also details the obligations of licensed facilities and projects to implement measures that reduce potential negative impacts on human health and ecosystems. The focus is particularly on maintaining soil quality.

EAD will gather data on soil quality at sites managing facilities and projects subject to environmental impact assessments and licence applications. This will be done according to the Agency's requirements, ensuring comprehensive monitoring.

EAD plans to conduct regular monitoring, surveillance, and evaluation programmes to verify soil quality. These activities include evaluation, licensing, inspection, auditing, and verification related to compliance with the regulation's standards.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, emphasised that this regulation is part of an evolving legislative framework aimed at better preserving various environmental components in Abu Dhabi. She stated that it addresses potential negative impacts from development activities while supporting efforts to sustain the environment for future generations.

Collaborative Efforts

EAD collaborated with relevant authorities in Abu Dhabi during the preparation phase of this regulation. This was done following the approved methodology for drafting legislation in the emirate. The provisions apply to terrestrial protected areas, unexploited sites, contaminated or potentially contaminated sites within EAD's geographical scope.

Dr. Al Dhaheri noted that EAD will implement these regulatory requirements in coordination with strategic partners through systematic procedures. She commented: "The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi will implement the requirements of the regulation in the emirate in coordination and cooperation with strategic partners, and based on systematic and organised procedures that will contribute to achieving its desired objectives."

With inputs from WAM