EPAA Completes First Middle East Study On Seabird Ingestion Of Marine Debris And Microplastics

The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah has completed a pioneering study on marine debris, microplastics, and oil residues ingested by seabirds. This research, the first of its kind in the Middle East, coincides with World Environment Day. It highlights the invisible threats facing seabirds along the UAE’s coasts and calls for collective action to protect marine ecosystems from pollution.

Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of EPAA, emphasised that this study aligns with His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's vision. She stated, "This unprecedented scientific study in the region reaffirms our firm commitment to monitoring and documenting pressing environmental challenges." The research supports evidence-based conservation policies and establishes a reliable database for tracking long-term trends.

The study examined 478 stranded marine and coastal birds from 17 species found deceased along the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman shores. Results showed 12.8% had ingested pollutants: 11.1% consumed debris, while 1.7% contained crude oil and tar balls. Plastic polymers were most common, especially among black-headed gulls.

In a subsample of 20 birds, microplastic ingestion was analysed. Microfibers constituted 77.8% of detected microplastics, suggesting laundry wastewater as a major source of pollution. Juvenile large white-headed gulls were more prone to ingesting waste than adults, highlighting their vulnerability to marine pollution.

Al Suwaidi noted that World Environment Day is a global call to review environmental policies and enhance community-driven initiatives aimed at ecosystem protection. She added that EPAA promotes sustainability through research and awareness programs focused on biodiversity protection and balancing development with conservation.

EPAA's Strategic Agenda for Environmental Conservation

The Sharjah Strandings Response Program is central to EPAA’s strategic agenda. It combines scientific surveys, environmental research, marine life rescue efforts, and community awareness initiatives. By addressing marine wildlife strandings across Sharjah, the program aids ecosystem monitoring and biodiversity conservation.

Al Suwaidi reiterated EPAA's dedication to collaborating with local and international experts to strengthen Sharjah’s position as a hub for environmental studies. These efforts aim to reduce marine pollution impacts and promote public awareness about preserving biodiversity in seas and coastal areas across the Middle East.

Oil balls and fishing hooks were identified as immediate threats to bird survival in the study. The findings provide a critical foundation for monitoring future impacts of marine waste on seabirds, which are vital for maintaining coastal ecosystem balance.

This research underscores Sharjah’s leadership in marine environmental protection during World Environment Day celebrations. It serves as a call for collective action against escalating pollution threatening marine biodiversity globally.

With inputs from WAM