MUSCAT: The Environment Authority (EA), represented by the Environment Centre in Masirah, managed to collect over 57 tonnes of marine debris, equivalent to 5,420 bags, from sea turtle nesting sites on the southern beaches of the Wilayat of Masirah.
The campaign was carried out in cooperation with Masirah Municipality and the Environment Department in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, with the participation of more than 100 employees. The campaign covered 47 km of southern beaches and involved removal of 92 fishing nets including 63 that were buried in the sand. These nets posed a real threat to sea turtles and other wildlife species especially during the nesting and hatching seasons.
Nizar bin Salem al Fannah al Araimi, Director of the Directorate of Environment in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, said that the campaign is part of ongoing efforts to protect the marine environment and turtle nesting sites in Masirah Island and enhance the readiness of these sites during the nesting season.
He noted that the removal of more than 57 tonnes of waste including 92 fishing nets represent a significant achievement in reducing the threats facing turtles and other marine species.
He added that the participation of government agencies, the local community, and fishermen contributed to the campaign’s success, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation and integration in protecting the beaches and preserving biodiversity that characterizes Masirah Island.
Masirah Island is one of the world’s most prominent sea turtle nesting sites making it extremely important to intensify cleaning and monitoring efforts during the nesting season, and reducing waste and abandoned fishing gear that could pose a danger to turtles, their hatchlings, and other marine life.
By Yousef al Habsi
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