Suhar: In an optimistic step to raise environmental awareness and foster a culture of sustainability in Al Batinah North Governorate, the Suwaiq Centre of the Environment Authority (EA) has launched an initiative to distribute eco-friendly consumer products to the public. The distributed items, which aim to reduce reliance on plastics, include reusable fabric and paper bags as alternatives to plastic bags, as well as copper water bottles to replace single-use plastic bottles. The initiative has received a highly positive response from the community, reflecting growing awareness of sustainable practices.
As part of this effort, an accompanying exhibition was held to highlight Oman’s national environmental project, which was presented internationally at the United Nations. The project, titled Resting the Rangelands in Dhofar Governorate, focuses on combating desertification and overgrazing in the region. Shaikh Hamoud al Kharousi, Head of the Environment Authority’s Centre in Suwaiq, stated:
“This exhibition aims to shed light on the recently launched national environmental project. It represents a significant step towards re-evaluating Oman’s environmental strategy by restoring degraded ecosystems and enhancing the country’s green capital. The initiative aligns with Oman’s Green Strategy 2020-2030 and Oman Vision 2040, supporting the growth of the green economy and striving for Net-Zero emissions.”
The rangeland restoration project in Dhofar Governorate is designed to address critical environmental issues such as biodiversity loss, soil erosion, and declining vegetation cover due to overgrazing. By creating designated rest periods for rangelands and implementing monitoring programmes, the project seeks to enhance the region’s ecological balance. It also contributes to global efforts to combat desertification, a key focus of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).
In addition to ecological restoration, the project aims to improve livelihoods by increasing agricultural productivity and promoting eco-tourism in Dhofar Governorate. These efforts will support Oman’s broader goals of achieving environmental sustainability, fostering economic diversification, and enhancing climate resilience.
The rangeland restoration project in Dhofar is a key component of the Sultanate of Oman’s broader environmental efforts. It reflects the Sultanate of Oman’s commitment to addressing global environmental challenges and implementing sustainable solutions. By rehabilitating rangelands, the project not only contributes to preserving biodiversity but also helps mitigate climate change impacts and enhance soil productivity, ultimately supporting local livelihoods. Through these efforts, the Sultanate of Oman reinforces its dedication to international environmental goals and its active role in promoting sustainable development. Initiatives like the eco-friendly product distribution and the rangeland restoration project are crucial milestones in the country’s journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.
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