Abu Dhabi: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced the allocation of a new resolution aimed at evaluating and managing risks associated with soil pollution across the emirate. The initiative strives to regulate procedures for identifying and addressing soil contamination while encouraging sound environmental management practices.
The resolution was developed under Law No.16 of 2005, which governs the reorganization of the EAD and its amendments, endowing the agency the authority to issue regulations and executive decisions to protect the environment.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, highlighted the importance of this regulation in preserving Abu Dhabi’s environmental assets. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri stated that, “This resolution is part of the wider legislative framework to safeguard various elements of the environment, including soil, ensuring sustainability for future generations. Its performance will involve coordinated efforts with strategic partners, following systematic procedures to achieve its objectives.”
The resolution involves to a wide range of areas, including terrestrial protected zones, undeveloped lands, and polluted sites. It outlines strategies for assessing risks from soil contamination based on environmental impact assessments required by the EAD.
Facilities and projects requiring environmental licences will need to adhere to these risk assessment guidelines. The resolution also requires the preparation and implementation of mitigation or environmental action plans for rehabilitating polluted areas, guided by detailed assessments.
The EAD worked closely with appropriate authorities during the resolution’s drafting phase, ensuring compliance with Abu Dhabi’s approved legislative preparation system. This collaborative strategy aims to enhance the effectiveness of pollution mitigation measures and optimize the management of natural resources.
The initiative underscores the agency’s commitment to managing environmental challenges posed by development, industrial, and tourism activities, ensuring the emirate’s natural resources are conserved for future generations.