Abu Dhabi's Environment Agency And Public Health Centre Initiate Community Survey On Air Quality And Noise Levels

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), has initiated a public consultation project. This initiative focuses on air quality and noise, aiming to incorporate community feedback into policy-making. The project seeks to ensure that the voices of Abu Dhabi's residents are considered before adopting new policies and regulations.

The consultation involves a survey targeting Abu Dhabi residents, addressing both outdoor and indoor air quality, as well as noise pollution. It aims to gather insights on public awareness, personal experiences, and health impacts related to these issues. Participants are encouraged to suggest ways to improve air quality and reduce noise levels across the emirate.

To facilitate widespread participation, the consultation will be conducted through a public poll available on Abu Dhabi-related social media platforms. Additionally, local community sessions will be organised to provide an interactive platform for residents. These sessions will promote open dialogue, ensuring that community questions are addressed.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, emphasised the importance of community involvement: "Consulting our community members in the emirate of Abu Dhabi is crucial because air quality impacts the health, wellbeing, and daily lives of individuals and communities." EAD monitors over 20 stations collecting extensive data annually for informed planning.

Dr. Ahmed AlKhazraji, Acting Director-General of ADPHC, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with EAD: "Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre is delighted to be working alongside our esteemed partners at the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), to enhance air quality and reduce noise levels within the emirate, creating a healthier environment for all."

The gathered data will undergo analysis by EAD's Policy Public Consultation team. They will quantify public opinion and identify common concerns or suggestions. Thematic analysis will target specific areas of interest or concern while sentiment analysis will assess response tones to refine communication strategies.

The results from this survey will guide the development of actions related to air quality and noise management. EAD plans to share these findings with relevant government stakeholders to foster collaboration across the emirate. This approach ensures that policies are robust and address real challenges effectively.

By incorporating public feedback into environmental policies, Abu Dhabi aims for solutions that are inclusive and widely accepted. This process empowers citizens, enhances public awareness, and fosters transparency in policy development. The initiative reflects a commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental protection in Abu Dhabi.

With inputs from WAM