EAD Introduces Comprehensive Regulation For Environmental Violations And Fines In Abu Dhabi

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has introduced a regulation to manage reconciliation and appeal processes for environmental violations and fines in Abu Dhabi. This regulation aims to enhance transparency and encourage violators to settle fines voluntarily. It is based on Law No. (16) of 2005, which allows EAD to offer reconciliation if violators agree to pay 75% of the total fine.

This regulation applies to violations listed in EAD's Board of Directors Decision No. (2) of 2021, detailing procedures for settlement and appeal. It prohibits settlement for repeated violations unless a year has passed since the last one. Reconciliation is also not allowed for certain violations with significant environmental impacts as determined by EAD.

If reconciliation is not possible or rejected, violators must pay the full fine within a specified timeframe from the procedural report's issuance date. Additionally, they are required to rectify the violation's effects and restore conditions to their original state within a timeline set by EAD. Failure to comply will result in EAD taking corrective action at the violator's expense.

Violators have the right to appeal within 60 days of notification, provided they include all supporting reasons and data. If an appeal is denied, the violator must pay the administrative fine, with any decision on appeals being final.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, highlighted that this regulation helps address potential negative environmental impacts from various activities like development and tourism. It supports EAD's mission to protect the environment for future generations.

EAD plans to implement these regulations across Abu Dhabi in collaboration with strategic partners through systematic procedures aimed at achieving its objectives effectively.

With inputs from WAM