Abu Dhabi Eco Body Assesses Soil Pollution Risks

EAD Issues Resolution to Address Soil Pollution Risks in Abu Dhabi

Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) recently issued a resolution focusing on assessing and managing risks associated with soil pollution in the emirate.

The aim of this initiative is to streamline processes in assessing and managing environmental risks posed by soil contamination. The resolution also outlines the mechanisms to take corrective actions, ensuring that environmental management practices are conducted properly.

The choice was taken in accordance with Law No. (16) of 2005, which regulates EAD’s reorganization and any revisions that follow. This legislation gives the agency the power to make the executive decisions and regulations that are required to reduce pollution and protect the air, water, soil, and natural resources, making sure that they are used as efficiently as possible for the sake of both the environment and human life.

In accordance with Abu Dhabi’s established legislative drafting procedure, EAD collaborated closely with pertinent emirate agencies during the resolution’s formulation. The scope of the resolution applies to various sites, including terrestrial protected areas, unused or undeveloped lands, as well as polluted areas, all of which fall within the geographic scope of the environmental licenses issued by EAD for any project or facility.

The resolution lays out specific procedures for assessing risks stemming from soil pollution in the targeted sites. These procedures are tied to environmental impact assessments and studies, which facilities and projects must submit in line with the environmental licensing process. Based on the findings of preliminary or comprehensive assessments, it also describes the procedures for cleaning up contaminated areas, such as creating and carrying out mitigation and environmental action plans.

“The issuance of this resolution is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to strengthen legislative frameworks aimed at preserving the environment, including soil health,” stressed EAD Secretary General Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri.

The resolution contributes to the agency’s overarching goal of protecting the environment and its resources for future generations by addressing the possible environmental impact of development, tourism, industry, and other activities.

Dr. Al Dhaheri further highlighted that EAD will implement the resolution’s requirements in close collaboration with strategic partners, following systematic and well-organized procedures to ensure the successful achievement of the resolution’s objectives.

The Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi was established in 1996 with the aim of protecting and improving the emirate’s air quality, groundwater and biodiversity.

Through collaboration with government institutions, the private sector, non-governmental organisations and international environmental organisations, the EAD promotes creativity, global best practices and enthusiasm in developing successful policies.

The organisation’s objectives are to make environmental issues a national priority, promote sustainable development and increase public awareness of environmental issues.