MUSCAT, JULY 8
The Environment Authority on Wednesday launched its Zero Paper initiative in line with the government’s digital transformation agenda and sustainable development objectives.
The initiative’s objectives and expected outcomes were presented, highlighting its role as a strategic initiative aimed at reducing reliance on paper-based processes and creating a more efficient, flexible, and digitally enabled work environment that enhances service quality and accelerates workflow.
The initiative was inaugurated under the auspices of Dr Hamed bin Mohammed al Dhawyani, Chairman of the National Records and Archives Authority (NRAA), in the presence of Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, along with a number of officials and employees.
The EA emphasised that the initiative stems from its responsibility to protect the environment and promote sustainability while serving as a model for adopting environmentally responsible practices within the workplace. This will be achieved by minimising paper consumption and expanding the use of digital solutions for document management and administrative processes.
"The idea behind the Zero Paper initiative at the Environment Authority was inspired by the authority's core mandate to protect the environment and promote sustainability. We aspired to lead by example and by adopting environmentally responsible practices by reducing paper consumption and transitioning to a more efficient and sustainable digital workplace.
"Thanks to these efforts, we have achieved tangible results, including a significant reduction in paper consumption, lower printing and document storage costs, improved accessibility to information, and strengthened the Authority’s environmental initiatives through more efficient and sustainable business practices," explained Nasr bin Nasser al Buraidi, Head of the Documents Organization Section and the Project Manager, Zero Paper initiative.
According to Al Buraidi, the initiative is part of a broader series of programmes implemented by the EA to reinforce environmental sustainability within the institution and foster a culture of innovation and digital transformation. "These efforts contribute to building a modern digital workplace, reducing the environmental footprint of administrative operations, and supporting the Sultanate of Oman’s vision for a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy," he added.
The Authority noted that the initiative focuses on reducing paper consumption, lowering printing and document storage costs, improving access to information and records, and strengthening data management efficiency, thereby enhancing productivity while supporting the Authority’s environmental protection efforts.
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