MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is highlighting its leading role in protecting the marine environment and promoting sustainability as a leading country in this field.
The Sultanate of Oman boasts a long coastline of nearly 3,165 km, making it home to a rich biodiversity that includes coral reefs, seabirds and fish as well as rare and endangered species such as sea turtles.
The Sultanate of Oman seeks to conserve its marine environment by adopting well-thought-out initiatives and policies. The Environment Authority (EA) was established to develop environmental strategies particularly those related to ocean and coastal protection.
The EA also conducts scientific studies and research aimed at understanding environmental challenges facing the marine environment including pollution, overfishing and climate change.
As part of its efforts to promote marine sustainability, the Sultanate of Oman is implementing various projects, most important of which is the Artificial Coral Reefs project which aims to rehabilitate damaged coral reefs, enhance biodiversity, support sustainable fishing and protect coastal areas.
The Sultanate of Oman has also established several marine reserves, such as the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve which provide a safe environment for endangered marine species.
Oman’s efforts are not limited to policies and projects alone, but also raising community awareness and promoting community participation through awareness campaigns and workshops aimed at educating citizens and residents about the importance of preserving the marine environment.
These initiatives contribute to enhancing environmental awareness among members of society, especially the younger generations, and encourage them to actively engage in marine conservation efforts.
It also attaches great importance to international cooperation in the field of marine environment protection. It participates in several global environmental agreements and programmes including the Convention on Biological Diversity which aims to conserve biodiversity and ensure its sustainable use.
Through its participation in World Oceans Day, the Sultanate of Oman reaffirms its commitment to preserving the oceans and ensuring their sustainability for posterity, thus contributing to the conservation of marine resources and the enhancement of biodiversity. — ONA
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