Hamdan Bin Zayed Issues New Decree To Safeguard Soil Quality In Abu Dhabi

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), has announced a new policy to safeguard soil in Abu Dhabi. This initiative, outlined in Decree No. (6) of 2024, aims to prevent soil degradation across the emirate. The EAD will collaborate with relevant bodies to ensure the policy's effective implementation.

The policy is designed to promote sustainable soil use, aligning with Abu Dhabi's broader development goals. It focuses on enhancing regulatory frameworks and adopting sustainable land management practices. Additionally, it seeks to protect public health and ecosystems while raising awareness about soil conservation.

EAD worked closely with government agencies, ADNOC, and Abu Dhabi Ports to develop this policy. The collaboration ensures that the policy aligns with national strategies. The policy examines current soil conditions, challenges, and legal frameworks affecting soil quality in Abu Dhabi.

The policy applies to various sectors, including urban planning, industry, agriculture, oil and gas exploration, coastal areas, and protected lands. It aims to address issues like soil erosion, salinisation, low organic matter levels, and poor soil quality signs in certain areas.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, EAD Secretary-General, emphasised the importance of preserving soil quality for economic and environmental development. "The Emirate of Abu Dhabi is working to preserve soil quality to support economic, social, and environmental development plans," she stated.

This initiative supports the UAE's sustainable development goals and aligns with the Environmental Centennial 2071 priorities. The strategy includes indicators that aim to rehabilitate 80% of degraded lands by 2030.

Diverse Ecosystems

Abu Dhabi boasts diverse ecosystems such as desert sands, Jebel Hafeet mountains, wadis in Al Ain, plains, dunes, and coastal sabkhas. These areas face challenges like erosion and salinisation. The new policy aims to protect these ecosystems by optimising soil use through systematic procedures.

The EAD will oversee the analysis of impacts from the policy's implementation using organised methods. This approach will help achieve the policy's objectives effectively over time.

The comprehensive approach taken by Abu Dhabi reflects its commitment to sustainable development through careful management of natural resources like soil.

With inputs from WAM