# EPDA RAK > EPDA RAK ## Posts - [EPDA organized a panel discussion on biodiversity on the World Whale Shark Day](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-organized-a-panel-discussion-on-biodiversity-on-the-world-whale-shark-day/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah organized a virtual seminar in cooperation with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the International Fund for Animal Welfare entitled "Biodiversity is everyone's responsibility." This coincides with the celebration of the International Whale Shark Day, which falls on August 30 of each year,Speakers representing the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, and the International Fund for Animal Welfare participated in this seminar, and the total number of followers of the seminar reached 108 participants. The panel discussion was opened by His Excellency Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, by providing an overview of the whale shark, or the so-called acrobatic shark, also called the peaceful whale, which is considered the largest species of sharks as well as the largest fish ever. Where the whale shark feeds mainly, though not exclusively, on plankton, microscopic plants, animals and small fish, stressing the importance of this type of shark in achieving diversity and biological balance, which is also considered an endangered species. And Dr. Al-Ghais commenting on this seminar: “Organizing such events and celebrating these environmental events comes within the framework of the authority’s commitment and desire to achieve the highest level of environmental awareness and shed light on all members of society in addition to diversity in community awareness of the various environmental issues in the country and the emirate, Whereas, the Commission organized this seminar in cooperation with the concerned authorities in order to highlight the efforts made to preserve all types of fish and the importance of the return from adherence to the state’s legislation and laws for its public interest for the environment and society in order to achieve sustainability and food security. ” For her part, Ms. Rumaitha Abdulaziz Al Shehhi, a representative of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, praised the decisions and legislation issued by the ministry regarding the preservation of wealth and fisheries, specifically sharks.Dr. Ahmed Mohamed, the Regional Director of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) for the Middle East and North Africa, also reviewed the efforts made by the Fund to protect and preserve the species of sharks, noting the danger of overfishing of sharks in the Arab Gulf and North Africa bordering the Mediterranean with the aim of trading in fish fins. The shark, cut it, and then thrown the fish back into the sea. As a result, the sharks are unable to pass water to their gills to breathe, which leads to their death or predation. The degree of environmental awareness of the participants was measured before and after the seminar on the subject of biological diversity and the importance of preserving whale sharks before the seminar and immediately after the end of the seminar for the same participants. - [Ras Al Khaimah Environment celebrates the empowerment of its female employees on Emirati Women's Day](https://epda.rak.ae/ras-al-khaimah-environment-celebrates-the-empowerment-of-its-female-employees-on-emirati-womens-day/): Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, congratulated the Emirati women in general and the female staff in the Authority in particular, stressing that the Emirati Women's Day has become an annual occasion to celebrate her remarkable experience and her outstanding contributions in various scientific and practical fields, and in appreciation and honor for her support Development efforts and achieving national goals, as they knocked on all doors, confirming their merit and presence in all rare disciplines, pioneering initiatives and high leadership positions; Amidst governmental interest and patronage, welcome and community confidence, as this occasion for this year 2020 comes under the slogan (Planning for the Fifty: Women is a Support for the Homeland), Pointing out that this celebration is a translation of the approach of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his father and our teacher, " He added, "Emirati women have proven, in addition to their duty to educate young people and create generations, that they are able to play all the roles that men used to play in working life and in various types of institutions and in all functions and organizational levels, which proved the complementarity of roles between them in order to ensure the safety and stability of the family." And society, and the UAE has made empowering women one of its top priorities in supporting the state's development efforts in various sectors. And Dr. Al Ghais: The distinction achieved by Emirati women today has transcended the stage of empowering women to empowering society through women. This was the fruit of the unlimited support of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, God willing, as he believed in the importance of her role in the development process and the continuation of the renaissance and progress and recommended the necessity of caring for, educating and encouraging women to advance the process of giving and serving the nation. By the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, may God protect him, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince The era of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and their brothers, Their Highnesses, Rulers of the Emirates. At the end of his speech, he affirmed that he sends all pride, thanks and gratitude to the Emirati woman and her honorable example, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, mother of the Emirates and the role model of the Emirati woman, and every woman strives, sacrifices and strives for the sake of serving the nation.Also, my advice to every woman is to build her future with the rocks from which her throne is thrown. - [77.28% of supermarket and bakery shop owners support replacing plastic bags with environmentally friendly alternatives](https://epda.rak.ae/77-28-of-supermarket-and-bakery-shop-owners-support-replacing-plastic-bags-with-environmentally-friendly-alternatives/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah launched the Plastic Free Initiative in Ras Al Khaimah, and a survey to measure the degree of support of 261 supermarkets and bakeries owners for replacing non-dissolving plastic bags with environmentally friendly alternatives showed that 77.28% of them support the initiative.It also reflected the huge number of bags used in these two activities only (27.43 million plastic bags), and the number of large weights that exceeded 489.6 tons of plastic bags during 2019 only. The magnitude of the great problem faced by the various ecosystems. Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, said that the community’s attitude towards the negative effects of plastic use and its damages on the environment has been measured.It was found that 81.25% of the respondents expressed that banning plastic bags in the emirate will contribute to protecting the environment.Also, 78.75% of them indicated that they would encourage all target groups to prevent the use of plastic bags. Al-Ghais added that a large proportion of the establishments that provide their products to the consumer public in Ras Al Khaimah use plastic bags, which carries high environmental risks since they decompose over a period ranging between 10-20 years, and cause the death of many marine and terrestrial organisms, and then malfunctions in the systems. Environmental,Scientific studies have also indicated that plastic is one of the substances that lead to environmental hazards for all ecosystems in the world, as global production of plastic has been estimated since the fifties of the last century at about 8.3 billion tons, and single-use plastic materials are considered one of the most dangerous products on the environment. Al-Ghais pointed out that the degree of support of the bakery owners was higher, at 81.11%, and the supermarket owners, the degree of support was 75.50%, and with regard to environmentally friendly plastic bags alternatives, the owners of 224 establishments, 85.8% of the total number of enterprises surveyed, supported this being The alternatives to paper bags, while the owners of 130 establishments and 49.8% of the respondents indicated that biodegradable plastic bags are the most appropriate alternative, while 97 facility owners and 37.2% of the respondents preferred cloth bags as an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags, as indicated by 96.17. % Of facility owners that their facilities can contribute positively to reducing the percentage of plastic bags usage in Ras Al Khaimah. Dr. Saif Al-Ghais concluded his statement that, "The authority is considering taking appropriate measures regarding replacing plastic bags with environmentally friendly alternatives, as the use of non-dissolving plastic bags for supermarket and bakery activities will be gradually eliminated, provided that the application of the Ras Al Khaimah Free of Plastic initiative is expanded to the rest Other sectors and activities starting from the beginning of 2021, and this will contribute to reducing the environmental footprint and protecting the environmental systems. ” - [Barakah nuclear reactor enhances environmental sustainability](https://epda.rak.ae/barakah-nuclear-reactor-enhances-environmental-sustainability/): Dr. Saif Mohamed Al Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah said that operating the Barakah nuclear reactor plant for peaceful uses in power generation enhances environmental sustainability in the UAE and the region and will contribute to reducing the emission of millions of tons of greenhouse gases and thus reducing global warming. He added that the operation of nuclear reactor plants does not produce any pollutants in the air and does not need large areas, such as those required by solar energy generation cells, and does not produce any waste like the ones produced by conventional electric power plants. On this occasion, Dr. Al-Ghais raised his highest congratulations and blessings to the wise leadership headed by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State "may God protect him" and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister, "may God bless him" and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and their brothers, Your Highness, rulers of the Emirates and its people, on the occasion of this historic achievement. - [The Ras Al Khaimah Environment promotes sustainable biodiversity in the Khor Al-Muzahmi Protected Area](https://epda.rak.ae/the-ras-al-khaimah-environment-promotes-sustainable-biodiversity-in-the-khor-al-muzahmi-protected-area/): Khor Al-Muzahmi coastal protected area is 14 kilometers south of Ras Al-Khaimah and extends over 3 km and is the habitat for many species of high environmental importance, including flamingo and fish eagle.Besides that the reserve is considered one of the nesting areas and feeding of green turtles threatened with extinction according to the IUCN Red List for the presence of seaweed in its waters, which enhances the presence of multiple types of fish and other living aquatic resources. His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, issued an Emiri Decree in October 2018 to establish a nature reserve in the “Khor Al Muzahmi” area, to be the first natural reserve and wetland reserve in the emirate.The announcement of this reserve came in conjunction with the State hosting the thirteenth conference of the Ramsar Convention to confirm the concern and keenness of His Highness the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah to protect the environment, preserve its quality and natural balance, develop its natural resources, preserve the biological diversity in the emirate and make the best use of it for the benefit of present and future generations. .In addition to affirming the emirate’s keenness to actively contribute to implementing the obligations regulated by international or regional agreements related to environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources that the state ratifies or accedes to. Dr. Saif Mohamed Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah said that there are a number of goals that the authority seeks to achieve by declaring the Khor Al-Muzahimi Reserve in the form of protecting areas representing various environmental systems, habitats and species in the emirate, noting that this effort comes within the framework of achieving the goals of the Declaration Reserves in general, such as protecting biological diversity, protecting threatened or rare species, as well as protecting fragile and environmentally sensitive ecosystems, as coastal areas are within this type of ecosystem. Dr. Al-Ghais added that the authority and during the past years conducted many scientific studies in the reserve that included studies on the types of birds, fish and plant species, the most important of which is the mangroves covering the estimated percentage of the area of the reserve, noting that the results of those studies confirmed the region's need to rehabilitate Degraded ecosystems and ensuring the restoration of threatened and sensitive species, including the cultivation of Crimea, and the initiation of a fish eagle restoration program to enhance environmental balance and biodiversity in the reserve, leading to ensuring the sustainability of ecosystem services and the sustainable use of natural resources in the Khor Al-Muzahmi area, thus contributing to human, social and economic development And cultural in the emirate by adding a distinct attraction in the emirate's eco-tourism map. The Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority pointed out that the authority's priorities related to biodiversity are the need to protect local species and that habitats have priority as well as promoting the multiple use of protected areas, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management based on the best international standards in alignment with relevant local and federal strategies and plans from Through adopting the sustainable approach, achieving balance and a comprehensive view of the economic, social and environmental aspects and raising the degree of environmental and societal awareness of issues related to the protection of species and habitats in light of urban development and the risks of climate change. The Khor Al-Muzahmi reserve is characterized as being a shallow area, as it is an incubating environment for many commercial fish that protect in the environment of the reserve before it is transferred to the fish stock. The launch of Khor Al-Muzahimi as a natural reserve helped to complete the project of numbering the green turtles threatened with extinction. Numbering 475 green turtle type turtles as part of the project to track and study sea turtles in the emirate’s coasts, where cooperation has been made with the Emirates Wildlife Group, within the framework of the authority’s endeavor to achieve its strategic goal related to protecting biological diversity and natural habitats in the emirate’s coasts and within the framework of sustainable fish wealth in terms of environmental protection Seaweed as a vital resource for turtles. Where the program contributes to the protection of endangered marine turtles and the identification of vital marine areas in the United Arab Emirates and the surrounding region with a view to knowing their maturity levels to preserve them and protect the ecosystems and marine species from overfishing activities and leaving fishing nets that represent a threat to many turtles during their migration in the waters of the Arabian Gulf And to protect them from negative activities in their nesting sites and influence the sustainability of fish wealth and the provision of marine habitats that feed on them. The program provides scientific data that is analyzed and studied to determine the places and dates of green turtle migration and mating patterns among them with a view to identifying marine habitats that need to be protected. The program includes marking of turtles with the installation of transmitters via satellites to track the migration path and areas of grazing and mating and to protect these places and make decisions on the basis Scientific to determine future strategic plans and marine life conservation policies and the role that turtles play in the biological balance in the marine environment in Ras Al Khaimah in particular and the Emirates in general. In conjunction with the declaration of the Khor Mazahi Reserve as a natural reserve, the authority organized the Leaders Forum in support of the marine environment under the slogan "Our fish wealth and happiness of the fishermen" within the reserve as the first initiative of its kind at the emirate level in the presence of a number of officials who planted about 640 Crimea trees in the reserve in the framework of initiatives to support sustainability Fisheries and in line with the Ras Al Khaimah Government 2030 strategy aimed at achieving sustainability and enhancing the goals of the strategic body that includes the protection of biodiversity and natural habitats in the emirate. The authority launched a project to resettle the fish eagle in the Khor Muzahmi reserve early in 2019 by establishing and erecting wooden columns that represent an incubator for mothers of the fish eagle by providing an environment that is closer to nature, where 4 columns were erected in different areas of the reserve and you may notice the frequency of the fish eagle on these columns and work continues Continuing with this project according to a plan that aims to resettle this endangered bird. The authority also established a nursery for the cultivation of mangroves in the Khor Muzahimi Reserve and work began on this project in conjunction with the announcement of the Khor Muzahimi Reserve as a natural reserve in 2018 with a production capacity of 800 seedlings and during 2019 the number of seedlings that were planted 1525 seedlings is expected to grow 2000 seedlings during the year 2020 where These seedlings are distributed on the various coasts of the emirate as well as increasing the area of vegetation in the reserve. This project is implemented annually during the period between August and September, which is one of the most prominent projects of the authority in the reserve because mangroves represent a safe environment for young fish. The authority has used solar powered searchlights in the reserve, as it was installed in 3 different locations in the Khor Muzahimi Reserve, with the aim of protecting the reserve from infiltration at night from some of the visitors. Work is also underway to install surveillance cameras on the searchlights columns so that the park is easy to monitor and secure around the clock. - Quoted from WAM - - ["Emirates Mars Mission "confirms the leadership of the UAE in the field of space](https://epda.rak.ae/emirates-mars-mission-confirms-the-leadership-of-the-uae-in-the-field-of-space/): His Excellency Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah, conveyed the highest verses of congratulations and blessings to His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State "may God protect him", and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. May God protect him, "and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, for the successful launch of the" Probe of Hope "to Mars. Dr. Al Ghais said on this occasion: "In the Emirates, the leaders and the people realize that everything that is important to the homeland must be achieved, so everyone seeks success and realization of successful and inspiring ideas." Space by "Emirates Mars Mission" towards the red planet, so leadership is the goal for the progress of the country. - [6 winners in the first session of the Environmental Sustainability Award in Ras Al Khaimah 2020](https://epda.rak.ae/6-winners-in-the-first-session-of-the-environmental-sustainability-award-in-ras-al-khaimah-2020/): The Environmental Protection Authority in Ras Al Khaimah announced the names of the governmental and private entities that won the Environmental Sustainability Award at its first session in 2020, where 14 government agencies and an industrial company participated in the award.The Department of Economic Development won the first place at the level of government agencies, followed by Ras Al Khaimah Transportation Authority in second place. Then in the third place came Federal Electricity and Water Authority.For the industrial sector, UTICO company won the first position, and in the second place RAK Ceramics Company, then Steven Rock Company in the third place. Dr. Saif Mohamed Al Ghais, Director General of the EPDA said that this award comes in the framework of the authority’s endeavor to achieve sustainable development and to achieve the vision and directions of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council of the Federation and the ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, may God protect him to protect the environment and the sustainability of natural resources under the supervision, and follow-up His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council. The award also supports the strategic goals of EPDA, which is to enhance the participation of government sectors and the private sector in environmental awareness, reduce the environmental footprint and involve them in contributing to raising the level of environmental awareness towards all segments of society. “The Environmental Sustainability Award aims to consolidate the principles of sustainable development and generalize the concept of environmental culture among the various sectors of society.” Added Al Ghais.“ It also aims to foster a sense of societal environmental responsibility, and to activate targeted and distinguished environmental activities in the environmental field, and it seeks to estimate and encourage outstanding contributions in the field of conservation On the environment by institutions seeking excellence and innovation” He continued. Al Ghais went on to say that the participants in the award were evaluated on three basic criteria represented in the policies that support environmental sustainability in the region. Existence of a plan, goals and regulations that support environmental sustainability, the quality of environmental initiatives to protect the environment and the sustainability of natural resources; As the existence of justifications and needs for the initiatives established in the regions and their diversity, as was taken into account in the third criterion the results and effects of these initiatives and the benefit of them on the stakeholders and beneficiaries. For his part, he affirmed the authority’s keenness to affirm the principles of sustainable development and generalize the concept of environmental culture. As the Environmental Sustainability Award aims to consolidate the broad concept of environmental management in the emirate, and this award represents one of the important pillars to encourage environmental work and spread awareness and spread the spirit of competition between the local and federal departments and the private sector in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah to achieve and apply best environmental practices in the field of environmental conservation, as it was based The evaluation of the results of the achievement of the entities participating in the award for the indicators and measures included in the standards, the most important of which are the proportion of environmentally friendly technologies used in the authorities and the percentage of reducing the carbon footprint and reducing the consumption of electricity and water. Al Ghais added that the Environmental Sustainability Award is one of the 4 awards that EPDA has launched in the past three years as a pioneering qualitative shift from merely practicing environmental awareness traditionally to creating and managing a package of international innovative awards such as the Soft Control Award for a sustainable environment. As well as local awards like the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award, and innovated from a distance environment, and the Environmental Sustainability Award that brought about a significant change in the environmental commitment of government institutions and industrial companies. - [Unremitting efforts of the EPDA to protect and develop fish wealth and improve its services](https://epda.rak.ae/unremitting-efforts-of-the-epda-to-protect-and-develop-fish-wealth-and-improve-its-services/): Marine organisms and fish wealth vary along the 64-km coast of Ras Al-Khaimah, at the northeastern entrance to the Arabian Gulf and in the middle of it is the Ras al-Khaimah Creek, the largest marsh of the emirate, as well as a number of other rivers, such as the Halila Creek and the Creek. Al-Muzahmi, which was declared as the first protected area in the emirate under the management of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah according to Amiri Decree No. 16 of 2018. For its part, the authority is keen on these reserves as natural habitats for young fish and fingerlings, and as part of its efforts to preserve them, it applied the decision to prevent fishing and water bicycles in the reserves and meadows of Ras Al Khaimah to protect and develop the fish wealth in the emirate. According to the list of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, there are about 406 marine creatures at the state level. Among the most prominent types of fish that are famous for the coasts of Ras Al Khaimah are grouper, capillary, net, shelly, shark, domes, oysters, barracuda, yachts, squid, and sea cucumbers, as well as crustaceans such as shrimp and tiger shrimp. The task of managing and organizing marine fishing affairs and everything related to the protection and preservation of fish wealth in the emirate has been assigned to the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah as well as its management of fishermen and fishing ports affairs according to Amiri Decree No. 11 of 2015 regarding the regulation of the fishing profession in Ras Al Khaimah. Pursuant to this decree, EPDA provides licensing and renewal services for artisanal, picnic, and pedestrian fishermen, managing the eight fishing ports in Ras Al Khaimah such as Ras Al Khaimah, Al Mairid, Khour Khuwair and Al Jazirah Al Hamra, among others, as well as following up the fish wealth in the emirate and making improvement efforts and launching initiatives that ensure the integrity and interconnection of all activities of the conservation process and the development of fish wealth and regulation of the fishing profession from start to finish. And after the authority took over the management of fishing ports, a "Hasaba Center" was opened to happiness the fishermen in Ras Al Khaimah Port to provide the services needed by the fishermen and fishing workers such as the management of fishing ports and follow up on the housing of fishing workers and fishing stores and moorings, and then the authority integrated all the activities of the fishing profession process during In 2019, the number of dealers with the authority at the Hasba Center to make fishermen happy 5049 dealers “3049 fishermen and 1500 fishing workers residing in workers’ housing in fishing ports. ” In 2019, the Authority provided about 2,227 licensing and renewal services for artisanal, picnic and pedestrian fishermen in addition to providing maintenance and follow-up services to 1558 berths of fishing, 349 housing rooms for fishing workers and 552 stores for fishermen, as well as organizing periodic meetings between Ras Al Khaimah fishermen and His Excellency the Minister of Climate Change and Environment to meet and Providing their requirements and needs, which resulted in a significant improvement in the degree of happiness of fishermen from 79.9% in 2015 to 95.5% in 2019. The "Environmental Protection Authority" was keen to implement the ministerial decisions regarding permitting and prohibiting fishing issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment, such as Decision No. 580 of 2015 regarding the prevention of fishing, selling and marketing of small sizes of fish whose lengths are less than the permissible limit And Resolution No. 43 of 2019 regarding the regulation of fishing and trading of sharks and Resolution No. 574 of 2015 regarding the regulation of fishing by nets and Resolution No. 501 of 2015 regarding the regulation of fishing and marketing of capillary and net fish in the breeding season. The "Environmental Protection Authority" was keen to implement the ministerial decisions regarding permitting and prohibiting fishing issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment, such as Decision No. 580 of 2015 regarding the prevention of fishing, selling and marketing of small sizes of fish whose lengths are less than the permissible limit And Resolution No. 43 of 2019 regarding the regulation of fishing and trading of sharks and Resolution No. 574 of 2015 regarding the regulation of fishing by nets and Resolution No. 501 of 2015 regarding the regulation of fishing and marketing of capillary and net fish in the breeding season. The project achieved great success, which was reflected in the increase in the size of fish wealth, fish stocks and the diversity of marine organisms in and around these bodies by 21 species of marine organisms, representing about 5.2% of the number of marine species present around the emirate's coasts according to the list of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment during 2019 compared to two types Only at the beginning of the landing of these artificial caves in 2017. And benefited from global experiences in designing artificial caves that went through many stages through the use of the latest designs that proved their feasibility and strength in enduring marine conditions and volatile marine conditions, which is dome design. The authority benefited from the availability of professional diving skills for a number of fish wealth monitors and the possession of boats necessary to follow the sea-level figures in providing the expected cost of running the annual project activities, which reflected a great efficiency in managing this project. The results, according to periodic marine surveys carried out by the Authority’s divers, revealed that there is an accelerated growth of coral reefs, algae, and invertebrates on these caves, in addition to attracting many types of fish in large numbers that vary from one region to another, which started to reproduce and live in artificial caves in a way Durable as a result of providing protection. The authority noted that the fish surrounding the sites of coral caves in the Al-Jazirah Al-Hamra region are characterized by their large size, while the caves in the Al-Rams region are characterized by diversity and large numbers despite the small size compared to what is the case in the Red Island, which enhances the success of the project of spreading and lowering coral caves in Protecting fish from the risk of attrition or extinction and supports their sustainable development. Among the most prominent future prospects of the project are the development of the eco-tourism hub by investing these artificial solids, the state of the diversity of marine organisms in and around them, and the growth of coral reefs and sponges, in transforming them into an eco-tourist hub for diving and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Through the possession of a laboratory equipped with the latest equipment and the presence of a specialized scientific team, a number of scientific researches were published in international scientific periodicals tightly during the year 2019 on the concentration of protein and heavy metals in marine fish, especially those of high economic value. - Quoted from WAM - - [Sheikh Zayed is the guide of UAE’s progress](https://epda.rak.ae/sheikh-zayed-is-the-guide-of-uaes-progress/): His Excellency Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah said that the founding leader Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God bless him, left us next to his Lord, but his wisdom is still guiding our country’s progress. We remember him on “Zayed’s Day for Humanitarian Action” as a model for charitable humanitarian action Locally and globally. Al Ghais added, in a statement to him on this occasion, that Sheikh Zayed's humanitarian contributions included the environment after planting her love and the love of preserving its resources in the hearts of the people of the country. - [EPDA maintains its advanced position in the 4th generation system of government excellence](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-maintains-its-advanced-position-in-the-4th-generation-system-of-government-excellence/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah achieved five advanced places in the Ras Al Khaimah Award for Governmental Excellence at its 14th session for 2019, which was announced by Sheikh Saqr Program for Governmental Excellence, by applying it to the 4th generation system of government excellence to continue to achieve distinguished results in the system of excellence. EPDA won the second position as the best authority in the field of strategy, and the second position as the best entity in the field of service delivery, as well as the second position as the best entity in the field of sustainability. EPDA also got third place as the best authority in the field of projects and initiatives, and the third place as the best authority in the field of smart transformation. Then the fifth place as the best entity In the field of innovation and ranked fifth as the best authority in the field of financial and administrative governance. Dr. Saif Mohamed Al Ghais, Director General EPDA, said that achieving advanced results in most of the standards of the fourth generation system of governmental excellence, with a total score of 438 degrees, reflects the authority’s success in achieving balance and harmony between different areas of excellence and sustainability in maintaining the results of the forefront. Al Ghais added that the reason for achieving the advanced centers is due to the tangible improvement in the performance of the Authority's strategic planning team, where he developed an ambitious long-term strategic plan 2030-2018 to come in line with the strategy of the Government of the Emirate of 2030 and also the Authority succeeded in the digital transformation by 100% in the environmental permit services. This led to the closure of the Happiness Center for the main dealers about 4 years ago, in addition to the success of the authority in re-engineering the process of managing and organizing the fishing profession and following up the fish wealth in the emirate. Eng. Moza Al-Muhairi, Assistant Director General said that one of the most important strengths that distinguished the Authority and contributed to this distinguished achievement was the announcement of the Khor Muzahimi Reserve as the first natural reserve in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and assigned its management to the Authority in addition to the presence of a laboratory equipped with the latest devices for the Authority. “The observed qualitative shift in the field of environmental awareness contributed also to the distinguished results of the authority in the fourth generation system. Environmental excellence is global and local” Said Mohamed Hussein Fahmy, the expert of institutional excellence in EPDA - Quoted from WAM - - [EPDA carries out maintenance for berths and landing areas](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-carries-out-maintenance-for-berths-and-landing-areas/): The Environmental Protection Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, in cooperation with the Ras Al Khaimah Ports Authority represented in Saqr Port yesterday, launched a project to maintain some moorings and fish landing areas in a number of fishing ports, within the authority’s initiatives related to supporting this vital and important sector, which is in the interest of fishermen in the Emirate. Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, explained that the fish landing area in the Ras Al Khaimah market was previously replaced, and based on the observations of the fishermen, the authority is conducting the necessary maintenance operations for it, in cooperation with Saqr Port, and maintenance operations will include installing a new roof, and cladding The bearings of the bearing platform, and cover it with plastic materials to protect it from rust. He added: In conjunction with this project, maintenance work has started in the port of Khor Khuwair port, which was damaged during the last period due to a ship collision by one of the companies in the port of Saqr, where the fishermen whose boats were also damaged, and maintenance operations will extend to a number of berths in some Other ports, pointing out that the fishing sector is of great importance for its role in achieving food security in the country, and the sector has witnessed a comprehensive development movement for fishing ports that positively reflected on its workers and their families, as the Emirate includes about 1,800 fishermen, and includes eight ports: lime Sha'am, Ghalila, Khur Khwer, For arms, Almaaarb, Ras Al Khaimah, the red island. Dr. Al-Ghais continued: The Emirate of Ras Al-Khaimah produces between 15-20 thousand tons of fresh fish annually covering the emirate's markets, and whatever is inundated is exported to neighboring markets, noting that the country's fish sector is one of the most important sectors that contribute to achieving the food security system that it adopts. The government is for most sectors, noting that Ras Al Khaimah was a major fishing center in the past in the Gulf region, and it currently maintains this position through the great attention paid by the responsible leadership to this sector. Al-Ghadeh emphasized that the authority implemented during the last period many initiatives that benefited the fishermen, and the coming period will witness the establishment of seafarers service centers in each of the ports of Al-Mairid, Ras Al-Khaimah and Ghalila, where fishing equipment and boat repair workshops will be provided, as well as councils equipped with Internet services. - Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - [Environment Innovative Contest Remotely by EPDA](https://epda.rak.ae/environment-innovative-contest-remotely-by-epda/): “Environment Innovative Contest Remotely” is a competition launched by the Environmental Protection and Development Authority – Ras Al Khaimah in order to keep up with the current situation that changed the education system in the UAE. The competition will occur remotely and will let the students innovate using the available recyclable items live in a period of two hours. The students will create models from the recyclables and will have enough time to explain the idea to the jury. The Director General of EPDA - Dr. Saif Al-Ghais, said that the competition aims to enhance family cooperation, motivate the creativity among the students, and consolidate the honest competition as it can be practiced during the current situation. He added, “Such activities spread the environmental awareness among the society, which can make the free time beneficial to the students by giving them the opportunity to display their talents, experiences and creativity during this unique experience. We invite parents to encourage their children to participate in the educational competitions as they combine the learning, enjoyment and benefit”. The participation is open to all age groups and the participant have to design the model in front of the committee by hosting the participant through the Microsoft Teams and recording their work using recycled materials. The participants shall answer the committee's questions. In addition, the design shall meet the main topic, which is recycling, and the work shall be creative, innovative and the ability to use the work. The jury will be evaluate the works and post them on the Instagram account of EPDA, and the highest votes will win the competition and honored with cash prizeThe competition will be launched in the period of two hours starting from 4:00 pm till 6:00 pm on Friday 17/04/2020 on Microsoft Teams - [40 to 60% improvement in air quality in Ras Al-Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/40-to-60-improvement-in-air-quality-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah confirmed that the air quality and the decrease in dust and pollutant levels in the emirate’s atmosphere have increased significantly and significantly, after imposing a “traffic restriction”, and in varying proportions between its geographically extended areas, by between 40 and 60 %. And that last December (2019) recorded rates of "pm10" pollutants up to 42, currently down to only 30, inside the city, and in industrial areas, at the beginning of December, they reached 126, to fall back to 60 and 70, equivalent to a decrease It ranges between 50 and 60%. He said: All air quality measurement stations deployed in the emirate's regions, especially the industrial ones and the city of Ras Al-Khaimah, recorded a decrease in the rates of air pollutants. - Quoted from Al-Khaleej newspaper - - [The return of "Al Sha'ari" and "Al Safi" is leading the decline in fish prices in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/the-return-of-al-shaari-and-al-safi-is-leading-the-decline-in-fish-prices-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Yesterday, the prices of fish in the Ras al-Khaimah markets recorded a significant decline by between 30 - 60% with the return of capillary and net Arab species to the sales tables, as a result of the suspension of decision No. 501 of 2015 regarding the regulation of poetic and Arab net fishing for the remainder of the current season . Dr. Saif Mohamed Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah emphasized that the suspension of the decision to ban poetic and pure Arab fishing came in a positive way and supported the people of the marine fishing profession, and the fishermen should continue fishing according to the market needs and not to use overfishing to preserve the stock Fish and ensure its sustainability to meet the needs of consumers on an ongoing basis. He pointed out that the percentage of the commitment of fishermen to implement the decision since its entry into force in the beginning of March until the fifth of April amounted to 99.99%, as the authority recorded through inspection teams one violation for fishing net weight of 15 kilograms, stressing that the results of survey studies conducted by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to implement the decision , Revealed the achievement of a significant impact on the type of fish net, as the proportion of fish increased and increased sizes and lengths, which confirms the importance of the decision in rebuilding the natural stock of marine life. - Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - [Sterilization of EPDA and fishing ports](https://epda.rak.ae/sterilization-of-epda-and-fishing-ports/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah has finished sterilizing all its facilities and fishing ports throughout the emirate within the framework of the national sterilization program and to preserve the safety of all groups of society in light of the current conditions. The authority continues to provide all its basic government services provided to industrial and medium and small-sized industrial and professional enterprises, fishermen and others through electronic channels and social media, while providing all facilities for them to achieve the highest levels of customer happiness. Dr. Saif Mohamed Al-Ghais, Director General of the Authority said: The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) was the first to close its main service center in the emirate 4 years ago, when it succeeded in a complete digital transformation of environmental permit services, so that the facilities submit their requests and pay the fees electronically, the request is processed and the service is produced electronically through employees The Authority, while environmental monitors rely on environmental control screens related to factories and the application of the Smart Lightning to complete field procedures, until the installations are delivered electronically and without the need to attend the Authority’s headquarters. He added: various NOC services, import and export certificates for chemicals and environmental studies in addition to the services of fishermen, customers can submit an application for them through the use of the official e-mail of the authority, as the authority provided the clients with guides on how to provide services through the site or e-mail in both languages Arabic and English and circulating it on all social media, and the authority also activated the use of modern technologies to hold meetings with partners, customers or employees, in order to save time and effort for all parties. Al-Ghais called on customers to use modern technical means and digital channels because of their ease and shortening of time, in addition to the fact that the Authority is ready to receive comments and suggestions regarding the services it provides through digital channels as well. - Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - [EPDA encourages the use of e-Services](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-encourages-the-use-of-e-services/): Based on the keenness of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority to take into consideration the needs of all segments of society by providing its services and providing them with all facilities to achieve the highest levels of customer satisfaction and comfort. EPDA customer can apply for services electronically and without the need to be present at the EPDA’s headquarters or the Hasbah Customer Center, and this comes in line with the directions of the state and the government. EPDA also directed its customers to use the electronic and smart services that the authority provides, whereby customers can provide environmental licenses and permits services through the EPDA’s website www.epda.rak.ae. As for the NOC services, import and export certificates for chemicals and environmental studies, in addition to the fishermen services, customers can submit an application for them by sending the application to the official email: info@epda.rak.ae In addition, EPDA has activated the use of new technologies to hold meetings with partners, customers or employees, in order to save time and effort for all parties. For his part, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais Director General of EPDA said: "EPDA is keen to provide the highest levels of service to all and seeks to facilitate procedures, and reduce the number of customers who have to visit the EPDA's headquarters or the customer center. In addition to EPDA’s effort to provide all the facilities and needs of its customers and the development of its services to become smart, inexpensive and with easy-simple steps, and to meet all the expectations of its customers. We also encourage everyone to use modern technical means because of their ease and shortening of time, in addition to the fact that the Authority is ready to meet Accept notes and suggestions regarding services. - [Maintenance of the “Khour Khwair” berth and compensation for the affected fishermen](https://epda.rak.ae/maintenance-of-the-khour-khwair-berth-and-compensation-for-the-affected-fishermen/): Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah, revealed the commencement of maintenance work at the port of Khour Khuwair port that was damaged during the last period by a ship colliding with it. The company in question began to compensate the fishermen whose boats were also damaged, indicating that the coming period will witness Maintenance of all port berths in the emirate, as part of the periodic maintenance of these ports whose construction contributed to preserving the fishing sector. Al-Ghais confirmed that EPDA has completed electronic linking operations for remote mentoring with all six cement factories operating in the emirate, along with some other factories. This comes within a plan aimed at linking all factories known to increase their emissions with a remote monitoring system using cameras. EPDA has succeeded, through the applications of artificial intelligence, remote monitoring and control by other available methods, such as the drone and others, in reducing emissions and raising air quality ratios, which is in line with the announced national plan in this regard. Al Ghais added: Ras Al Khaimah includes about 642 industrial establishments out of a total of 2325 environmental licenses in the emirate, and these establishments were divided according to their environmental impacts, and they were classified and appropriate control methods were identified. 17 crusher operating in Ras Al Khaimah. Pointing out that the authority monitored a significant improvement in adherence to environmental standards, which reflected positively on reducing emissions and improving air quality, pointing out that the rest of the facilities are being monitored through two other systems: “Bayraq” and “Tarf”, and EPDA will continue to expand the use of industrial intelligence in monitoring the installations. Al-Ghais revealed that 115 violations were filed last year. 84 violations of them were the by the fishing sector represented in hunting in prohibited places such as natural reserves and hunting in cave places, and failure to adhere to fish sizes by some fishermen. EPDA closed one of the private desalination stations operating in the northern regions after monitoring harmful violations In the environment; it was represented in the unsafe disposal of high salinity return water. Which is harmful to the marine environment if it is not disposed of properly and at long distances from the beaches, to avoid its harmful effects on marine life and fish that live close to the beaches. Al Ghais pointed out that EPDA in implementation of the national agenda 2021, obligated some factories that use groundwater to stop these uses and replace that with desalinated water that was connected to all factories located in the Ghail region within the efforts made to preserve the most important natural resources in the country. In this context, EPDA has closed one of the Desalination plants that perform unsafe disposal of returned water from desalination processes, which causes harm to the marine environment. - [Marine control in the EPDA](https://epda.rak.ae/marine-control-in-the-epda/): Dr. Saif Mohamed Al-Ghais Director General of EPDA explained that, according to the objectives of the national plan, EPDA tightens control over the marine environment and conducts several studies on marine biology and fish. EPDA also has 5 marine stations operating in the emirate's ports that monitor the physical and chemical properties of seawater and the changes in its properties. In addition to measuring the percentage of chlorophyll related to the phenomenon of red tides in water and other changes in the sea, EPDA also introduced submarines for environmental monitoring equipped with underwater cameras to monitor caves and marine life. These helped Modern Yep to know more on the marine environment and the most harmful influences them. He continued: With regard to the fishing sector, our wise leadership, and based on the importance of this sector and its positive impact on a large sector of the nation, ordered the development of ports to keep pace with the overall renaissance achieved in various sectors. Today in Ras Al Khaimah we have seven modern and developed ports, and the eighth port, Al-Rams Port, is being modernized There are plans to maintain the berths of these ports during the coming period. Al-Ghais confirmed that EPDA has monitored 30 different violations since the beginning of this year, with violations related to the fishing sector and the commitment of all fishermen to the period of poetic, net and shark bans that started early this month. - Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - [Ras Al Khaimah Environment calls for a commitment to renew fishing licenses](https://epda.rak.ae/ras-al-khaimah-environment-calls-for-a-commitment-to-renew-fishing-licenses/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in the Emirate of Ras, called on all practitioners of the fishing profession or hobby to commit to renewing fishing licenses, as the authority will carry out campaigns to monitor violators starting next Sunday, stressing the need for help and compliance with what is issued by the competent authorities in order to achieve the public interest. His Excellency Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection Authority, said that the authority will intensify maritime inspection campaigns for fishermen in order to ensure the validity of fishing licenses as the authority is always striving to provide and facilitate all procedures of its services in front of its customers by adopting the best ways and quick ways to obtain the service, since the fisherman is now He can obtain picnic hunting permits or apply for a hunting license through the electronic system and through the website of the authority, which is necessary to be with the hunter before going out to fishing trips, stressing that the authority is always striving to conserve natural resources And its sustainability and that this step comes to regulate fishing activity. The Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority stressed the importance of adhering to the existing laws and legislations, stressing that the implementation of these procedures falls under the directives of the rational government in preserving natural sources of food and contributing to achieving a safe and sustainable food sector for future generations. - [EPDA warn fishermen not to approach floating sensors](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-warn-fishermen-not-to-approach-floating-sensors/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah has announced the establishment of floating sensors, aimed at conducting "marine surveys", by one of the specialized authorities, in the marine region, which extends from Al Marjan Island to the port of Mairid, up to 7 kilometers from the emirate’s coast . The Ras Al Khaimah Environment Authority called on fishermen working in the coasts of Ras Al Khaimah and its fishing ports not to approach, touch, or be exposed to devices or fishing alongside them, and exercise caution, and to avoid catching fishing nets with these devices and their equipment, in order to protect the fishermen and maintain tools Hunting and property, in support of the marine survey project.Dr. Saif Mohamed Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah, said that the emirate currently has about 1,260 fishing licenses belonging to citizens. - [The First Documented Emirati Study .. 5 Minerals in "Ghaf" Leaves](https://epda.rak.ae/the-first-documented-emirati-study-5-minerals-in-ghaf-leaves/): A recent study conducted by the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah and published by the Asian Journal of Science and Technology soon revealed high levels of major minerals in Ghaf tree leaves at rates estimated to be twice that of trees and vegetables known to be rich in these minerals, especially spinach, lettuce, arugula, etc. This study is prepared, according to Dr. Saif Mohammed Al-Ghais, Director-General of the Authority, the first of its kind regarding the nutritional value of the tree. He explained that the study was among the three studies that the authority had accomplished during the first period related to the Ghaf tree and its nutritional value, while the second study specialized in measuring proteins in 5 local fish, and the third study was conducted on some marine algae. He added: For the first time, the Ghaf tree reveals its secrets that were not known in the past, but the people, by their instinct, guided their value and importance in the past and made sure to eat their leaves as food, pointing out that the study found that the leaves of the tree contain potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and sulfur in large quantities and not Familiar in vegetables known to man and defined by scientific references and periodicals as rich in these minerals that are useful in treating many diseases, foremost of which is pressure and anemia. He continued: Compared to lettuce and spinach, the highest vegetables contain these elements, it was found that Ghaf leaves contain twice as much as these plants. For example, Ghaf contains 0.60 potassium, while lettuce contains 0.062 and spinach 0.064, and in the rest of the minerals there is a great variation in These proportions, which confirm the importance of the tree and the possibility of its use in the production of medicinal drugs in the future. EPDA also conducted a study on marine algae that grows in the Persian Gulf and the possibility of using it as an important food product, especially what is known as "nano chloro opis", which is very small algae and has many food and industrial uses such as cosmetics, pointing out that the authority is currently raising these algae Inside the laboratory using carbon dioxide and sea water. As for the third study conducted on the fish sector, it is related to the percentage of proteins in it. It revealed that capillary fish is the highest containing proteins among the 5 other types included in the study. He continued: The first and second studies were documented and published in scientific periodicals, and the first study related to packaging is on its way to publish after being permitted in the Asian Science and Technology Journal.Mohammed Salah ( Al Ittihad ) - [Markets are free from shark, Sheri and Safi](https://epda.rak.ae/markets-are-free-from-shark-sheri-and-safi/): Yesterday, the markets of Ras Al Khaimah were devoid of sharks and Arab and pure poetic fish with the entry into force of the decision to ban these species, which was issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment. A kilogram of 400 dirhams two days ago.Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director of the Environmental Protection Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah, explained that the decision to ban the hunting of the three species is part of the state’s efforts to preserve these species and increase fish stocks in all fishing areas, pointing out that the authority has started monitoring fishing ports, fish markets and commercial stores to compel them all to the decision .He added: The fishermen during the last period monitored a significant improvement in the quantities of several species in the sea, including the net fish, and this improvement needs more studies, which can be conducted during the next three years, pointing out that several factors help to improve the fish stock, including the movement of marine currents. It provides food, along with bans in the breeding season. He continued: There are some countries that have applied what are known as numbering and release systems for a number of fish species, and have been observed and measured quantities in sea water and are one of the modern methods for measuring the extent of improvement in some species, and this idea is based on planting small slices in these fish before launching into the sea, be These slides are numbers for fish, which are then monitored during fishing, as observers can discover these fish and their percentage when the readers of these slides are passed on to fishing boxes.He stressed that the authority tightened with the entry into force of the decision on the process of controlling ports and markets, noting that a violation of fishing decisions amounted to 5 thousand dirhams fine and in the event of a repeat of the fisherman's license is canceled according to Cabinet decisions issued in this regard, praising the commitment of fishermen during the past years in the Emirate Ras Al-Khaimah with all fishing ban decisions.- Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - [EPDA launches the Water Footprint Calculator](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-launches-the-water-footprint-calculator/): In the context of its endeavor to sustain the natural resources in the emirate, the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has adopted a new environmental calculator to calculate the water footprint of individuals and institutions in the emirate to measure the rate of water consumption, as the water footprint is a measure of the amount of water used and through which an assessment of the potential environmental impact associated With water. His Excellency Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director-General of the authority, explained that there is a water imprint for individuals, societies and even various activities and is expressed in terms of the volume of water consumed, whether for an individual or a society or for the production of a specific product. His Excellency added that the principle of the water footprint and its methods of calculation is an important research development for a group of researchers from UNESCO to enable individuals to know the rates of their water consumption, the method of calculation is mainly based on the amount of water in each product in each country separately. Dr. Al-Ghais indicated that the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah adopted this principle in developing an additional part for the calculation of the water footprint for individuals and societies within the UAE or GCC countries through the application of Estidama, which includes, in addition to the water footprint, methods for calculating the carbon footprint and several other smart services provided Commission. - [Plans to raise air quality in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/plans-to-raise-air-quality-in-ras-al-khaimah/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has revealed new plans to raise the air quality ratio to 90% in the emirate by expanding the uses of artificial intelligence in air and marine control, fisheries control, liquid material transport operations, and industrial sector activities in the emirate. Dr. Saif Mohamed Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah said that there are great efforts made by various sectors, bodies and ministries to improve the environment and develop and preserve its natural resources, noting that improving air quality is one of the goals of the national agenda for the UAE 2021 vision which aims to raise rates of these Quality to 90%, and to achieve this goal, the authority works with its partners in the government and private sectors to develop national efforts by various means and methods based on extensive control operations on all polluting sources of air, such as cement plants, crushers, the industrial sector, and others. Pointing out that all cement factories are obligated to install modern surveillance cameras to monitor emissions, and these cameras are linked to the department's control and control rooms, pointing out that the authority has conducted 15,304 tests of air components from 226 reports on air quality during the past year. He continued: As part of its efforts to ensure the sustainability of natural resources and the preservation of biological diversity, and after the announcement of the Khor Al-Muzahmi Reserve as the first declared reserve in the emirate, work was done to develop the park and prevent all forms of hunting within it, and the establishment of the first nursery to cultivate the "Crimean" trees, and 3025 trees have already been planted So far, pointing out that the authority has tightened control measures over the reserve to prevent and reduce encroachments on it, in addition to enhancing the stability of the fish eagle in the region by increasing the number of places suitable for its nesting. He added: The system of artificial intelligence in environmental control provides many reports that benefit from some federal and local authorities such as the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Federal Electricity and Water Authority and the Ras Al Khaimah Sewerage Authority of the Public Services Department currently benefiting from the party system, the municipal department and the Tourism Development Authority. - Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - [98,400 services performed by the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah during 2019](https://epda.rak.ae/98400-services-performed-by-the-environmental-protection-and-development-authority-in-ras-al-khaimah-during-2019/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah announced that it provided 98,400 services to various categories of customers, society, industrial establishments, fishermen, government and educational institutions, individuals and others classified on 68 types of services during 2019, after the completion of the process of merging services based on 23 competences of the authority according to Decree No. 2 of 2007 In addition to its competence to regulate the fishing profession according to Decree No. 11 of 2015. The Authority’s vision revolves around the protection of the environment and the sustainability of its resources. Its mission seeks innovation and excellence in the control and awareness methods and the preparation of legislation based on specialized research programs that contribute to the protection of the environment and natural resources.Dr. Seif Mohamed Al-Ghais, Director General of the Authority, said that the Authority continues to delight customers by providing unprecedented facilities and simplify procedures and listen to their proposals through periodic meetings and continuous meetings across the Authority’s councils, which numbered 28 during 2019. Al-Ghais attributed the services accomplished by the Authority with high quality and highest standards and degrees of happiness for customers during the year 2019 to the interest of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah in environmental work and his deep belief in the need for Ras Al Khaimah to become a sustainable emirate alongside the constant pursuit by His Highness Sheikh Muhammad bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al-Khaimah, Chairman of the Executive Council, who is sparing no effort to follow closely the extent of compliance of industrial and professional establishments with environmental requirements. Al-Ghais stated that the authority is keen to provide facilities and services aimed at making its customers happy by switching to electronic and smart services, noting that the authority issued, renewed and amended 3569 environmental permits for industrial and professional establishments through the electronic licensing system and smart applications for the authority and without the need to visit the authority’s headquarters to facilitate the investors and a guarantee to achieve ease Doing business and contributing to enhancing the competitiveness of the emirate, which contributed to raising the level of happiness of the Authority’s customers during 2019 to 97.3%. In the interest of the authority to provide smart and advanced services that keep pace with the development witnessed by the emirate and in order to achieve the services and requirements to keep pace with the marked excellence and the place that the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah reached, the authority provided 35 services for the fast track, which is one of the services launched by the authority during 2018 as it is one of the services Submission to renew the environmental license within an hour or less in return for specific fees, as a matter of the Authority’s endeavor to provide all the facilities and needs of its customers and to develop its services to become smart, inexpensive, and easy and simple steps. n the topic of air quality, which is considered one of the main issues on the national agenda for the UAE 2021 vision in the United Arab Emirates, as the agenda aims to raise the air quality rate from its current level to 90% by 2021 and to achieve this goal, the authority works with its partners in the government and private sectors to develop efforts National by various means and methods as the authority works to provide this service through fixed and mobile stations to measure air quality in various regions in the emirate The number of services to measure air quality with different components of air pollutant gases has reached 51,304 services extracted from a number of 226 reports on the quality of air. Al-Ghais added that during 2019 the authority issued and renewed 90 hunting licenses for picnic and 346 licenses for artisanal fishing and that the authority issued 425 no-objection certificates for licensing tanks, 1177 no-objection certificates for importing chemicals, 125 no-objection certificates for the export of chemicals and 15 no-objection certificates to transport used oils from ports Ras Al-Khaimah during the year 2019. Within the framework of enhancing strategic partnerships, the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah concluded four partnership agreements where a partnership agreement was signed with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to enhance environmental cooperation and exchange information on emissions from industrial facilities and environmental impacts resulting from economic activities in addition to building technical capabilities Specialized in the areas of strategic environmental planning and exchange of information on climate change and joint work between the two parties in the field of climate change, biological diversity and environmental awareness. The commission also signed an agreement with the International Fund for Animal Welfare "Evo" to enhance the authority of the authority in protecting the environment and its components and to promote joint efforts and exchange of knowledge and extensive and specialized expertise on both sides in many key areas related to environmental activities. Under this agreement, the two parties will use the best information The available scientific studies while ensuring the preservation of the national identity and taking into account the religious and cultural dimension when adopting or supporting any relevant educational activities. In addition, the authority has updated the strategic partnership agreement with the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry with the aim of strengthening cooperation and achieving integration in the partnership relationship between the two sides in the environmental and commercial fields that serve both parties as the two parties agreed to cooperate in the areas of environmental awareness and smart applications, cooperation and participation in community initiatives For the two parties and the processes of institutional development and exchange of experiences in common areas. The authority also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Municipal Department in Ras Al Khaimah on the spatial data infrastructure project for the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, and this was during the launch of the project strategy, which aims to facilitate the exchange of geospatial data between government agencies that serve decision-makers in all areas of the emirate. The authority seeks to launch environmental awareness-raising initiatives that enhance the awareness-raising role of the authority in addition to contributing to preparing a generation that contributes to protecting the environment and instilling positive environmental behavior and activating the role of different groups of society in creating a sustainable healthy environment and highlighting private contributions to preserving the environment where the authority implemented 196 initiatives Community, lecture and effective environmental awareness in various parts of the emirate and for different groups of society where the total number of beneficiaries of environmental activities reached 12981 beneficiaries during 2019 and through the application of Estidama 341 new users benefited from the services of this innovative application during 2019 to reach A total of 4118 users have benefited from this application since its launch, and the authority has also provided an awareness service through text messages to 16,746 beneficiaries. The Authority also, for the purposes of follow-up and monitoring, and to achieve the objectives of a remote environmental monitoring initiative, launched a party system indicator board and environmental indicators board during 2019 and linked all of these systems to fixed and mobile monitoring rooms, and the remote environmental monitoring system is one of the main strategic projects that the authority has accomplished within the framework of its strategic plan 2017 -2020 with the aim of raising the level of quality control processes and activities that have an impact on the sustainable environment, whether industrial activities or practices or human or natural phenomena in various environmental systems as well as reducing the cost of services related to irrigation Such as environmental permit and assessment of environmental Abh studies associated with environmental impact assessment and others. - WAM : Mohammed Al Sharji / Redha Abdulnoor - [1400 citizens maintain the fishing profession in Ras Al-Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/1400-citizens-maintain-the-fishing-profession-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Dr. Saif Mohamed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA confirmed that the number of citizen fishermen working in the fishing profession in Ras Al-Khaimah is 1400 fishermen, indicating that the emirate allocates 50% of its production of fresh fish daily for sale in all of the country’s markets. He pointed out that the development of the eight fishing ports and markets in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah contributed to preserving the emirate’s historical position in the fishing sector, which it gained during the past years through exporting to various countries of the region, pointing out that despite the decline in many other heritage occupations, it has maintained The fishing profession is at its forefront. He pointed out that this sector would not have maintained this position had it not been for the large government support that was provided during the past years, which was to develop fishing ports and support for fishermen and provide incentives for them to continue in this important heritage profession. Al-Ghais explained that the Emirate of Ras Al-Khaimah includes 8 fishing ports: Al-Jeer, Ghalila, Shaam, Khor Khwer, Al-Rams, Al-Mairid, Ras Al-Khaimah and Al-Jazeera Al-Hamra. Occupations practiced in the region, along with agriculture, trade and others. According to a recent report by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment ranging from 71 to 72 thousand tons annually, there are other steps to preserve the fishing sector made by the state, according to a recent report by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. , Among them is the interest in fish farming and others, as well as the prohibition of fishing for some species during certain periods of the year. - Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - [Sharjah Municipality views best practices of the Environmental Protection Authority in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/sharjah-municipality-views-best-practices-of-the-environmental-protection-authority-in-ras-al-khaimah/): A delegation from Sharjah Municipality reviewed the efforts of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah in the environmental practices of industrial establishments in the emirate, and the best environmental practices that they implement.This came during the visit of the delegation of Sharjah Municipality, which included representatives of the Research and Studies Division, environmental auditors and a health control inspector in the Sharjah Municipality, to the authority and its meeting with a team of employees of the authority, who welcomed the visit, and praised the importance of exchanging experiences and knowledge in raising the efficiency and effectiveness of environmental work, in addition to unifying Efforts to reach achieving the environmental goals and strategic visions of the country.Dr. Saif Mohamed Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah affirmed that EPDA is keen on joining efforts and exchanging common experiences, stressing the importance of exchanging professional knowledge and experiences, and that the authority is ready to cooperate with all the competent authorities in the country, to transfer and exchange experiences, develop work and sustain successes.During the meeting, EPDA showed the initiatives implemented in the field of automating environmental control processes, through a remote environmental control initiative, and the implementation of "Taraf", were monitored to monitor the movement of liquid transport tanks.The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation and sign a strategic partnership aimed at achieving the strategic goals and aspirations of both parties aimed at achieving the optimal use of resources and ensuring environmental sustainability.The visiting delegation undertook a field tour of the EPDA's facilities. - [Ras Al Khaimah Environment honors the winners of the global competition "Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment"](https://epda.rak.ae/ras-al-khaimah-environment-honors-the-winners-of-the-global-competition-feminine-monitoring-for-sustainable-environment/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah honored the winners of the global competition "Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment" that aims to keep pace with global trends in the field of women's empowerment and demonstrate their abilities in giving and applying best practices in the field of the environment and achieve food security and raise the level of awareness and environmental knowledge and the degree of familiarity and commitment to international agreements Legislation related to environmental protection and the sustainability of its resources among different societies and cultures.This came during the ceremony attended by Sheikha Amna bint Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Her Excellency Maryam bint Muhammad Saeed Hareb Al Muhairi, Minister of State for Food Security and a number of women leaders and pioneers of environmental work.The award promotes volunteering in environmental work in addition to encouraging institutions and work teams to excel in research and innovation to provide solutions to environmental issues and challenges and consolidate the concept of sustainability, appreciation and encouragement of prominent and pioneering contributions of women in the field of preserving the environment and promoting environmental sustainability. Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al-Khaimah said that the initiative and the award “Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment” and other innovative environmental initiatives launched by EPDA and achieved leadership centers both at the local and global levels were thanks to the keenness of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah to protect the environment and the sustainability of its resources in line with the orientations of the state and in connection with the national agenda for the UAE vision 2021 within the axis of a sustainable environment and integrated infrastructure, and thanks to the initiative's patronage of the wife of His Highness the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah Sheikha Na girl Juma Al Majid. "The total number of posts fulfilling the conditions reached 24, and 14 winning entries were honored in the various special categories in the award, as Umm Al-Arab School for Primay and Secondary Education from Abu Dhabi won first place in the category of environmentally distinguished institution. Bahrain Women’s Society for Human Development ranked first in the category of collective environmental work. Within the category of individual environmental work, Rasha Ziauddin Saleh of the State of Palestine won first place. Ajman Center for the Care and Rehabilitation of People of Determination and Al-Hudaibah Secondary School for Girls got the first place equally in the category of volunteer environmental determination group of people.As for the category of best research in the environmental field, Dr. Khawla Abdullah Al-Kaabi from Uniter Arab Emirates University got first place, as the total number of nationalities participating in the award and initiative reached 14 nationalities from various countries of the world In addition to that the number of volunteers in the initiative reached 290 volunteers and the initiative achieved 913 volunteer hours, with 155 supervisory and awareness visits to different sectors of society, such as health clubs, nurseries, restaurants, homes, beauty centers and other sectors. - [Al Zeyoudi visits fishermen in Ras Al Khaimah, discusses key concerns](https://epda.rak.ae/al-zeyoudi-visits-fishermen-in-ras-al-khaimah-discusses-key-concerns/): With the ongoing efforts to support the UAE’s fisheries sector, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, MoCCAE, today met with members of the Ras Al Khaimah Fishermen Society and listened to their key concerns and challenges.The meeting is in line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, for ministers and government officials to be seen working in the field to resolve the issues people face, outlined in his Letter of the New Season.During the meeting at the Ras Al Khaimah Environment Protection and Development Authority, RAK EPDA, the Minister reiterated the importance of preserving the country’s fish stocks and protecting fishing, one of the oldest professions in the region and a key contributor to the UAE GDP.Salah Al Rayssi, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Biodiversity and Aquaculture Sector at the MoCCAE, said, "The Ministry’s support for diverse sectors is part of a well thought out strategy to streamline operations and promote productivity. Such endeavours help ensure overall efficiency and sustainability in line with the goals of the UAE Vision 2021."Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director-General of the RAK EPDA, said, "This meeting reinforces the efforts of the MoCCAE and the EPDA to work towards the well-being of the emirate’s fishermen and enhance ties between the fishermen, the government, and other key stakeholders of the fisheries sector. In line with its commitment to provide the country’s fishermen with the best-in-class services in a convenient and transparent manner, the Ministry routinely implements and revises laws related to the fisheries sector to increase its productivity and contribute to its long-term sustainability."Dr. Al Zeyoudi later visited the fish market in Ras Al Khaimah, accompanied by Al Rayssi and Munther Mohammed bin Shakar Al Zaabi, Director-General of Ras Al Khaimah Municipality.Dr. Al Zeyoudi directed the MoCCAE officials to extend the necessary assistance to the fishermen and traders to overcome the challenges they face and ensure their ability to continue practising their profession in compliance with the laws of the country. The fishermen and traders conveyed their dedication to abide by the relevant legislation that aims to boost marine sustainability and ensure food security for present and future generations in line with the UAE Vision 2021. - [Al-Zyoudi honors the award winning schools for students of environmentalists in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/al-zyoudi-honors-the-award-winning-schools-for-students-of-environmentalists-in-ras-al-khaimah/): His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment honored schools and kindergartens that won the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award organized by the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah in its second session 2019-2018. At the same time, the third edition of the 2019-2020 prize and the new categories and standards were introduced during the ceremony held at the Hilton DoubleTree Hotel in Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah in the presence of Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA and the directors of local departments in the emirate and a large number of employees Protectors of the student environment and their parents.Al Zeyoudi said that empowering and engaging young people in working for the issues facing society, drawing and decision-making is a priority in the UAE and thanks to the support of the wise leadership and guidance we are witnessing generations with high awareness and awareness of the most important local and global challenges and a passion to participate in working to address them.“The competition and its young students are a clear example of how this generation is aware of its ability to succeed and influence in a specialized sector such as the environmental sector,” he said, praising EPDA's efforts to work for the environment. For his part, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais said that the award was established with the aim of preparing generations aware of the importance of protecting the environment and the sustainability of its resources and then conveying environmental awareness through student environmentalists teams from schools to other institutions and various segments of society.He explained that the award has resonated in schools and kindergartens, which initiated the formation of more than 34 environmental teams, represented by 1089 students at various stages and educational seminars, who presented during the previous two prize sessions about 339 environmental innovation and planted 7800 local trees low water consumption like: Ghaf, Sidr and Samr. He added that Al-Bereirat School for Boys won the First place as the best outstanding team for environmental protection, while the environmentalists team at Ras Al Khaimah Academy won the second place and the third team was the environmentalists team from Zahrat Al-Madain School. - [EPDA participated in Government Research Exchange Program](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-participated-in-government-research-exchange-program/): Ms. Shama Al Shamsi, representing the Environmental Protection Authority, participated in the Government Research Exchange Program organized by the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Public Policy Research in Bristol. The program aims to increase the knowledge experiences of the participants, and to develop their individual abilities, as well as developing their own departments later on. They were also briefed on the functioning of government mechanisms in the city to build a model for a successful government exchange program, and to enhance cooperation within the departments of Ras Al Khaimah Government. - [Environmental sustainability practices](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-sustainability-practices/): In coordination with the Department of Finance, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority, gave a lecture entitled "Environmental Sustainability Practices". The lecture included the concept of environmental sustainability and its main objectives. Attendees also participated in a questionnaire to evaluate the effectiveness of sustainability methods both in the workplace and on a personal level. His Excellency the Director General received the honor of this lecture from Mr. Abdullah Mohammed Al-Sabab, Director of Institutional Communication Department at the Department of Finance. - [Memorandum of Understanding between EPDA and IFAW](https://epda.rak.ae/memorandum-of-understanding-between-epda-and-ifaw/): In a step to harmonize efforts and enhance the role of the EPDA in protecting the environment and its components, A meeting was held today at the EPDA’s place with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (ifaw) To sign a Memorandum of Understanding. The signing of this Memorandum aims to lay the foundation for cooperation between the two parties and to promote joint efforts and exchange their extensive and specialized knowledge and experience in many key areas related to environmental activities. The MoU was signed by Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority, and Mr. Azzedine Downes, Executive Director of the Middle East and North Africa Office of the International Fund for Animal Welfare. Under the memorandum of understanding, the two parties will train the employees of the concerned authorities in the application of regulations and regulations that ensure the sustainability of environmental regulations, in addition to practicing awareness activities in the field of animal welfare and directing them to address local issues of animal welfare. It also includes cooperation in wildlife conservation.According to the memorandum, the International Fund for Animal Welfare will provide information and expertise on issues related to animal welfare and protection. The Parties will also use the best scientific information available while ensuring the preservation of national identity and taking into account the religious and cultural dimension when adopting or supporting any awareness activities.For his part, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, said that the UAE attaches great importance to the issue of animal welfare, which is one of the influential issues related to the environment and stipulated by our true religion and our traditional social customs. And it is necessary to encourage community groups to contribute to promoting awareness of the importance of caring and protection of creatures, through the launch of awareness programs and initiatives. He also urged the public to treat animals humanely and gently, and encourage them to participate in all animal protection programs. Al Ghais added that we are responsible of Educating the public on the role of animals in maintaining an ecological balance that ensures the continuity of life. - [Opening of fish market auction in Ma’areed](https://epda.rak.ae/opening-of-fish-market-auction-in-maareed/): The fish market auction was opened in Ma'areed in the presence of HE Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of Environment Protection and Development Authority and HE Munther Bin Shukr, Director General of Ras Al Khaimah Municipality - [55897 services performed by RAK Environment Protection Authority during the first half of the year.](https://epda.rak.ae/55897-services-performed-by-rak-environment-protection-authority-during-the-first-half-of-the-year/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has announced that it provided 55897 services to customers and the community during the first half of this year, classified according to 113 types based on 23 specialties of EPDA in addition to its competence to regulate the fishing profession.On the occasion of the issuance of the Corporate Governance Report for the first half of this year, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, said that EPDA continues to delight its customers by providing unprecedented facilities, simplifying procedures and listening to their proposals through regular meetings and ongoing meetings through EPDA's boards.Al Ghais attributed the Authority's high quality services and the highest standards of customer satisfaction during the first half of 2019 to His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, for the environmental work and his deep belief in the need for Ras Al Khaimah to become a sustainable emirate. The continuous endeavor of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah and Chairman of the Executive Council, who is sparing no effort to follow closely the extent of compliance of industrial and professional establishments with environmental requirements.Al Ghais said that EPDA is keen to provide facilities and services to delight its customers through the shift to electronic and smart services. EPDA Issued, renewed, and amended 1436 environmental permits for industrial and professional establishments through the electronic licensing system and smart applications without the need to visit the EPDA building to facilitate investors and to ensure the ease of doing business and contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of Ras Al Khaimah. Air quality is one of the key issues on the UAE 2021 National Agenda in the UAE, which aims to raise air quality from its current level to 90% by 2021. To achieve this goal, EPDA works with its partners in the government and private sectors to develop national efforts in different methods and ways. EPDA has stations to measure air quality in various areas in Ras Al Khaimah, as the number of air quality measurement reports reached 25364.During the first half of 2019, EPDA issued and renewed 68 fishing licenses for picnic and 15 artisanal fishing licenses. Back in 2017, EPDA provided housing for 1,035 fishing workers and 1,186 fishing berths, as well as 458 fish stores, bringing the number of berths to 1,558 berths and warehouses to 552 in 2019, while 2,681 traders benefited from the services provided by EPDA.Within the framework of strengthening strategic partnerships, EPDA and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote environmental cooperation. To exchange of information on emissions from industrial plants and environmental impacts of economic activities, as well as building specialized technical capacities in strategic environmental planning. In addition, to exchange of information on climate change and joint action between the Parties on climate change, biodiversity and environmental awareness. The memorandum of understanding signed by EPDA with the Ministry, aims to achieve a sustainable environment in line with the recommendations of the wise leadership to strengthen partnership and cooperation between the institutions and government sectors in the country. This will contribute to achieve the UAE Vision 2021, pointing out that EPDA, in cooperation with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, has laid the foundation stone for the tidal pools project on the coasts of the Emirate to thrive biodiversity in the coastal environment. - [Insurance company committed to the maintenance of Khor Khuwair Anchorage](https://epda.rak.ae/insurance-company-committed-to-the-maintenance-of-khor-khuwair-anchorage/): Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, said that the insurance company of the vessel which caused the collision at the fishermen's wharf in Khor Khuwair has committed to compensate the owners of the damaged boats. EPDA is currently coordinating with the company to maintain the damaged anchorage. EPDA is following up on the maintenance of the anchorage by the insurance company affiliated to the vessel causing damages.Rashid Al Shehhi, a resident of Khor Khuwair, said that the marina, which was built by the President's Initiatives Committee, was hit by a vessel about a month ago and is still not safe to use because of the destruction of key parts of it. Fishermen are harmed by the use of the shattered anchorage used by more than 60 fishermen in the Khor Khuwair area, north of Ras Al Khaimah. - [Requiring desalination companies to install stainless tanks for transport vehicles](https://epda.rak.ae/requiring-desalination-companies-to-install-stainless-tanks-for-transport-vehicles/): EPDA has obliged its registered desalination companies to replace the plastic tanks of existing water trucks with stainless steel; for it being more suitable for water transportation is the best practice in developed countries.Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, explained that EPDA is in its endeavor to sustain the protection of natural resources in Ras Al Khaimah, and to maintain the safety of water produced by desalination companies in it. EPDA obliged these companies to adjust their status in the transport sector for human consumption by using stainless steel tanks mounted on vehicles.“EPDA will not renew the environmental license of these companies until the company has confirmed the use of the new tanks.” Dr. Al Ghais said.He also pointed to the coordination between EPDA and the Traffic Department of Ras Al Khaimah Police to harmonize these vehicles with the regulations and systems in the country and obtaining environmental license for this type of vehicle. - [Desalinated water is available to all factories in Al Ghail](https://epda.rak.ae/desalinated-water-is-available-to-all-factories-in-al-ghail/): Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director of EPDA, confirmed that desalinated water is now available to 100% of the factories operating in Al Ghail Industrial Area, as part of EPDA's efforts to completely stop the use of groundwater in the industrial sector. Al-Ghais pointed out that this step comes within the national strategy related to the green economy in which reliance on renewable resources. It adopts the concept of preserving the natural resources owned by UAE, especially water.Global warming is being endangered by many countries in the world, can be seen in hurricanes, floods and record high temperatures in many regions of the world. In addition to exposure to frost and cold in other regions, Global warming has spread to the seas and oceans, which record an increase in the proportion of carbon dioxide and reflect negatively on the acidity of the sea, and then on snails and crustaceans, which disturbs the food pyramid in the waters of these seas and oceans.Based on the EPDA's role in the conservation of natural resources, in accordance with UAE national strategy, EPDA completely prevented drilling of underground wells. It also obliged the industrial sector not to resort to groundwater and rely on desalinated water. The use of groundwater in all factories operating in Al Ghail Industrial Area has been discontinued after the provision of desalinated water to these plants.Inspection proceduresEPDA has tightened inspection procedures on all industrial facilities, cement factories and crushers through the use of remote monitoring techniques. Which enabled EPDA’s control center to monitor all these facilities and take the necessary and immediate measures when recording any increase in the rates of emissions of these facilities. EPDA within these procedures has completely halted a tire recycling plant. Several important measures were also implemented, such as preventing the use of clay in oil refining, as this technology leaves some toxic oxides that can affect the environment. EPDA won the Sheikh Saqr Award for Excellence in Government and Remote Control, which contributed significantly to reducing the violations of the establishments. - [Ras Al Khaimah monitors creeks for illegal jet ski use](https://epda.rak.ae/ras-al-khaimah-monitors-creeks-for-illegal-jet-ski-use/): Inspectors have been dispatched to the creeks of Ras Al Khaimah to ensure nobody is flouting the annual summer ban on jet skis.The emirate banned the use of jet skis in the summer months in 2016, in a bid to protect marine life in the respective areas.On Wednesday, the Environment Protection and Development Authority said it had deployed inspectors to ensure the law was being upheld.“Using jet skis in creeks cause disturbance to the marine environment as it causes waves and currents that can affect the marine life,” Dr Saif Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA.“Inspection and control teams are carrying out awareness campaigns targeting people who use jet skis in creeks.”He said the authority was also monitoring the emirate's eight creeks using drones and had erected clear signs to remind the public about the importance of preserving the marine environment.“Natural reserves and creeks are there to protect threatened and endangered species and preserve the biodiversity in the emirate,” he said.“Jet ski riders can still practice the sport at the emirate’s open beaches,” he said.In October last year, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, issued a decree to establish the emirate’s first protected wetland nature reserve in Khor Mazahmi.The conservation spot is home to a host of wildlife, including flamingos and the critically endangered green turtle, which features in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. - [EPDA: Protecting the environment by sustaining its natural resources](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-protecting-the-environment-by-sustaining-its-natural-resources/): In its endeavor to sustain the protection of natural resources in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, EPDA continues its campaign to remove Damas trees in cooperation with the concerned authorities and community sectors, said HE Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA.Dr. Al-Ghais explained that the aim of removing Damas trees and replace them with local trees is to reduce the environmental damage related to this tree as it puts pressure on groundwater resources because of its high water needs compared to other local species. Besides the Damas being an intruder species in the UAE environment. The Director General of EPDA pointed out that the rate of response of the industrial establishments with the decision to remove the Damas trees reached 77%. EPDA provides local trees for all sectors as an alternative to deforested trees.“EPDA is working to ensure that the Emirate is free of Damas trees, and the removal is not limited to industrial establishments, but includes economic, service, tourism, educational and residential facilities throughout the Emirate.” Dr. Al Ghais said. The Director General of EPDA called on all sectors of society in Ras Al Khaimah to cooperate with EPDA to get rid of Damas trees, and replace them with local trees, in order to preserve our natural resources and enhance the existence of our local trees with multiple environmental benefits. - [Dubai Municipality visits the EPDA to know about the best practices in the field of increasing green areas in the Emirate](https://epda.rak.ae/dubai-municipality-visits-the-epda-to-know-about-the-best-practices-in-the-field-of-increasing-green-areas-in-the-emirate/): A delegation from Dubai Municipality visited the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah to review the efforts made by EPDA in increasing the green areas in the Emirate in addition to the best environmental practices implemented by EPDA. The delegation, consisting of representatives of the Department of Agriculture and Irrigation and the Office of Support and Development in the Infrastructure Services Sector in Dubai Municipality. They met with HE Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of the Authority, who welcomed the visit and praised the importance of exchanging expertise and knowledge in raising the efficiency and effectiveness of environmental work. In addition to unifying efforts to achieve the objectives and environmental strategic vision of the UAE. Worth mentioning, that number of environmental initiatives have been reviewed by EPDA in accordance with international best practices aimed at increasing and enhancing the green area of the Emirate. In addition to the various activities and projects that are followed up by the different departments of EPDA. The discussion focused on the initiative of one million and one tree, and how to plan, run, and follow up its results and outputs. What distinguishes this initiative is its focus on the cultivation of local plants such as Sidr, Samar and Ghaf, along with some endangered species. The initiative was armed with local experiences not recorded and learned from them lessons and lessons for the benefit of future generations, and the use of the process of characterization and numbering of trees before delivery. Plant cover has been increased by approximately 35,000 square meters since the start of the initiative. They also discussed the procedures followed by EPDA in the field of preserving the tree cover from unfair logging. There are strict actions to reduce the negative phenomena associated with this phenomenon. They also Addressed modern farming systems and methods of controlling invasive species, such as removing Damas trees and replacing them with local trees. About 80% of the Damas trees were removed from the licensed facilities from EPDA. They also discussed the initiative to replace environmental fines by planting local trees provided by EPDA free of charge. They also brought up the project of planting mangroves in Khor Al Muzahmi reserve with the participation of various community groups. In addition to supporting and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices through the provision of desalinated water to farmers in order to relieve pressure on groundwater and encourage organic agriculture. - [Vegetables and fruits float in the sea near Sha'am](https://epda.rak.ae/vegetables-and-fruits-float-in-the-sea-near-shaam/): Citizen fishermen spotted large quantities of vegetables and fruits inside the sea near Sha'am area in Ras Al Khaimah yesterday.EPDA attributed this to the sinking of a commercial boat. As sea currents and high waves contributed to the approach of the cargo. Dr. Saif Al-Ghais, Director General EPDA, said that fishermen spotted quantities of agricultural products in the area near Shaam, and there are some fishermen monitored sinking of a boat near Al Jazeera Al Hamra. Still it was not confirmed whether it was the same boat carrying the cargo. Overloading and high waves in the sea cause such problems for small commercial boats. - [EPDA launches “Clean Air… Healthy Environment” initiative](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-launches-clean-air-healthy-environment-initiative/): Within the celebration of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah on the World Environment Day, which falls on 5 June under the slogan "Air Pollution". EPDA has launched the “Clean Air… Healthy Environment” initiative, to measure indoor air quality in federal and local government institutions and sports clubs in Ras Al Khaimah. In order to ensure the purity of the indoor air from the gases whose rise rate leads to health problems in addition to damage to the environment. This comes as a complement to the efforts of EPDA in maintaining air quality. EPDA provides a number of air quality measuring stations in several locations in Ras Al Khaimah. In addition to several activities related to the measurement of indoor air quality in houses, covering approximately 15 areas in Ras Al Khaimah. EPDA also measures indoor air quality in educational institutions, restaurants, hotels, health centers, health clinics, commercial centers, mosques and beauty centers. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, said that all these initiatives come within the strategic vision of UAE and Ras Al Khaimah, which seeks to preserve the environment and the sustainability of its natural resources. He added that the initiative “clean air… healthy environment” comes within the framework of the EPDA's strategic plan and within the efforts to create sound buildings and a healthy environment for all sectors of society in Ras Al Khaimah.The initiative is also concerned with studying and sensitizing stakeholders to the need to apply the best international standards to ensure the quality of the internal environment in all sectors targeted by the initiative in order to remain a healthy city following the highest international standards and a clean environment free of pollutants. By measuring air pollutants such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, which should not exceed certain standards and odor-causing gases which are affected by, inter alia, the amount of external ventilation indoor air distribution and the efficiency of air purification equipment. Some indoor practices, cleaning materials, and the external air quality surrounding the building. The fact that internal pollutants are more harmful to human health than external pollutants. The Director General stressed the need to preserve the air to remain pure and follow the best practices that contribute to its preservation. - [RAK Environment launches a program to measure indoor air pollutants in government departments](https://epda.rak.ae/rak-environment-launches-a-program-to-measure-indoor-air-pollutants-in-government-departments/): In an effort to raise the level of environmental awareness in Ras Al Khaimah, EPDA has launched a program to measure air pollutants in government departments. Within the activities of the program, a technical team led by Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General, visited the eGovernment Authority to meet its Director General Eng. Ahmed bin Saeed Al Sayyah and a number of eGovernment team.During the visit, Dr. Saif discussed the importance of indoor air quality and reviewed the most important causes of its pollution, the potential damage caused by its presence in the life of the individual, and how to reduce this pollution. There were some discussions between him and e-government staff on this subject and answered their questions. Technical team tested the air samples in the various facilities of the eGovernment Authority to study them after extracting the results. EPDA intends to circulate the program to the various departments and bodies in Ras Al Khaimah. - [EPDA Organizes " Iftar of Emirati Values"](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-organizes-iftar-of-emirati-values/): To coincide with the Year of Tolerance 2019, and to reaffirm the authentic values of the UAE community, has organized a collective Iftar for various community clubs in the Emirate under the title "Iftar of Emirati Values". This comes in response to the call of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, President of the General Women's Union and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, the Supreme President of the Family Development Foundation, "Umm Al-Emarat", to introduce Emirati values.The Iftar was attended by a number of community club members in the emirate such as the Egyptian, Jordanian, Sudanese, Somali, Pakistani, Indian, and Filipino clubs. The attendees exchanged congratulations by the holy month of Ramadan. Pointing that the UAE seeks to achieve and consolidate the principles of justice, equality, harmony, tolerance and respect for others of different religions, races and cultures. The attendees were also introduced to the UAE values and exchanged conversations between the communities and the customs and traditions of the UAE.Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, said that tolerance is not a new value in the UAE, but is one of the values of the forefathers and founding fathers in the country. He praised the necessity of spreading a culture of tolerance among the different nationalities living in the UAE, to ensure security, safety and harmony and to promote a culture of tolerance to create community awareness, and to consolidate the spread of a culture of tolerance through various community initiatives. The UAE society maintains the values of love, cooperation and solidarity in order to achieve the psychological balance of individuals and make them beneficial for themselves. Tolerance is one of the virtuous values of the UAE. - [EPDA Tightens Mentoring on Creeks and Fishing Ports.](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-tightens-mentoring-on-creeks-and-fishing-ports/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has confirmed that there is no intention to launch drones to deliver profits for the fishermen at present. This initiative is under consideration and no action has been taken. EPDA revealed the tightening of control over the creeks and natural areas to benefit from the surveillance system with cameras on ports.Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, explained that EPDA has strengthened its monitoring system on the marine environment in Ras Al Khaimah by using marine surveillance cameras to monitor living aquatic habitats in the emirate's fishing waters, as well as ports. The results of this step will be used to update the protection strategies for the marine environment and the areas EPDA has begun to tighten its environmental control to ensure the sustainability of living aquatic resources. It will enhance the contributing to the preservation of fisheries and other marine life, as well as his preservation of the fishing profession and the continued practice of this important traditional craft associated with the sustainability of the food security.What has been published recently about the Ras Al Khaimah Fishermen's Association delivering profits to fishermen by drones, has been inaccurate. Since this initiative has not yet been studied. EPDA for its part welcomes all constructive and purposeful initiatives to delight fishermen and achieve their well-being. It is therefore premature to announce such initiatives and there is no intention to launch such drones at the moment. EPDA is doing its best to serve the fishing sector and fishermen in the Emirate as directed by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, who attaches great importance to the fishing sector.There are Drones in EPDA, which are currently used to control the creeks, fishing areas, ports, natural and industrial areas. We also have an integrated system of inspection, which we were keen to use modern technological means that achieve the desired goal in preserving the environment and reducing pollution. - [Rain keeps biodiversity and restores ecological balance](https://epda.rak.ae/rain-keeps-biodiversity-and-restores-ecological-balance/): Number of specialists and residents in Ras Al Khaimah, confirmed that the rains in the UAE and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah irrigate the land, and it contributes to the spread of greenery and the growth of natural grasses in the wild and mountainous areas, and conserves biodiversity as well as recharge groundwater reserves. As rains contribute to ecological rebalancing, increased landscaping and the growth of wild and desert grasses that previously used for grazing.Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director of EPDA, said that Ras Al Khaimah witnessed heavy rains during the current period would contribute significantly to the prosperity of shrubs and seasonal plants. It also contributes to the conservation of biodiversity as it provides a rich environment for insects, which in turn feed for birds and other desert animals. He pointed out that mountain valleys that reach the sea carry large amounts of silt, which are salts such as phosphates, nitrates, and iron needed by phytoplankton in photosynthesis to thrive. Therefore, it attracts small animal floats, as they represent an important food for fish. The fertility of seawater rises significantly when it reaches them. It contributes to the natural diversity of seawater and its marine life and fish. These rains also contribute to the feeding of various wild and desert plants that contribute to the spread of green areas in these areas.Abdullah al-Habsi from Wadi al-Bayh said that the current rainy season is similar to previous rainy seasons, especially during the seventies and eighties. The rains continued to rain for a whole week and the people were waiting for them to sow the grain in the ground which was quickly growing especially barley besides the wild grass which was used for grazing. The grazing season was largely related to the rainy season that was feeding groundwater in these areas. Most of the people were digging the wells, which was still full of water even near the rain again. As rains during the past years were extending until early May.Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi from Ghulaila, owner of a farm, said the Ras al-Khaimah was green in the past years before the rains fell. Which in turn affected many crops, trees, natural grasses and palm plantations that were seen over the sight in areas such as Wadi Ghalila, Wadi Shaam, Al Rams, Shamal, Al Seih, Al Hail, Al Khrran, Al Hamham, Al Hamrania, Al Jazirah Al Hamra, Al Riffa and others. The grazing grass is a place that used to extend to August in the past, due to heavy rains. - [Launch of tidal pools on the shore of Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/launch-of-tidal-pools-on-the-shore-of-al-marjan-island-in-ras-al-khaimah/): His Excellency Dr. Thani Al Zyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, has launched the first tidal beach pool initiative, which is being implemented by the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, on the coast of Al Marjan Island, to increase the biodiversity of coastal marine organisms and promote eco-tourism.HE Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, confirmed that the UAE has presented a global model in preserving the biodiversity of marine organisms, according to the prospective data through its ambitious plans, and within the ministry's strategy and vision to achieve environmental leadership for sustainable development involving all sectors of society. The initiative aims to provide an ideal safe environment for marine organisms such as clogs, shrimp and marine snails, to ensure biodiversity, with environmental protection and fishing prohibited on the shores of Coral Island as a natural tourist reserve.3000 cavesThe UAE is exerting great efforts in preserving the marine environment through initiatives that stimulate the sustainability of biodiversity, including the landing of 3000 artificial caves on the coasts of the UAE, in order to support the sustainability of the marine environment and promote marine biodiversity, and build incubators for small fish and enhance the stock of fish. The ministry is targeting 1000 new caves in 2019, in cooperation with environmental protection agencies in the UAE.studies proved the success of the Ministerial Draft Resolution No. 501 of 2015 on the regulation of Sheri and Safi in conjunction with the breeding season. The study, which lasted for four years, is scheduled to be completed this year, and includes monitoring and follow-up of the biodiversity of caves. Indicators show the positive results and its importance in attracting many types of fish to the shores of the country, which contributed to the increase of daily fishing harvest according to surveys carried out by the Ministry with the fishermen in the country.Positive resultshe results of surveys conducted by the Ministry during the past years since the implementation of the resolution showed a significant impact in attracting Safi and Sheri and an increment in their numbers and sizes compared to the period prior to the implementation of the resolution. In addition to the high daily harvest of marine fishing operations of these species throughout the year. The openness of fish markets in the country and the commitment of traders to the daily supply of hotels and restaurants limits the decision to prevent the landing of Sheri and Safi within the first 12 hours of the end of the ban.That the decision to ban sharks fishing aims to maintain an ecological balance. The dependence of sharks in their diet on weak and sick fish, which in the event of breeding will transmit infection to other species. Sharks are an important species in the country's marine environment. Therefore, overfishing of these fish threatens the stability and balance of the marine environment and the diversity and survival of other marine species. The Ministry has registered 43 species of sharks that contribute to the biodiversity of the marine system.Quality initiativeDr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, affirmed EPDA's commitment to the UAE's environmental strategy and the national agenda. Through the diversity of initiatives aimed at the preservation of marine diversity and the development of fisheries, within the initiative «tidal pools» launched by EPDA yesterday, on the Marjan Island, which is protected as a natural reserve where fishing in all its forms is prohibited. The initiative includes the construction of 15 basins on the beaches of Marjan Island within the first phase. There will be a study of the extent to which these marine organisms are polarized within those naturally occurring nests.1000 cavesEPDA has completed the landing of 1000 eco-friendly artificial caves in six different marine sites covering the length of the sea coast of Ras Al Khaimah, which is 64 kilometers, with the aim of developing fish wealth from these caves to the bottom of the sea to be incubators for small fish and artificial habitats for marine organisms. - [Odors in Al Rams and Al Halilah caused by sardines.](https://epda.rak.ae/odors-in-al-rams-and-al-halilah-caused-by-sardines/): Ras Al Khaimah's Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) has announced that the drying of sardines (which called locally “Al Oumah”), is the main reason behind the spread of odors in Al Rams and Halilah during the past few days. There is a specialized fish drying plant in the emirate, Ras Al Khaimah Fish Drying Factory. There is a specialized fish drying plant in the emirate, Ras Al Khaimah Fish Drying Factory. But the problem is the increase in the quantity of these fish, which led some fishermen to dry them near the shore. Dr Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director of EPDA, said the current period is the seasonal period for drying the "Oumah" before being packaged and put on the local market as well as exporting abroad.These fish are caught in large quantities in preparation for their drying and packaging. During the past period, a factory specialized in drying and packing these fish has been built for fishermen. The current quantities in the Halilah area near the Rams area are due to the abundant fishing of these fish. In general, "Oumah" are caught on the east coast and in the Arabian Gulf and used after being dried and packaged in bags. It is also used as fertilizer on farms and as animal feed. "Oumah" drying operations are well known in many countries They still exist because of their good economic impact on fishermen and traders.Number of people demanded to find radical solutions to the spread of unpleasant odors in residential areas near the area of Halilah. This problem recurs annually with the start of the Oumah fishing season. There should be innovative solutions to prevent odors from reaching residential areas.Mohammed al-Tunaiji residential of Al Rams said that the smells have increased recently in the region because of these fish, calling for radical solutions to this problem, which is repeated annually at this time of year. Saeed Mohammed from Halilah said that the problem of drying Oumah is frequant and not resolved despite the establishment of a factory specializing in fish drying, and there should be an action to move these fish away from the beaches to be dried, or rely on drying through the factory only. - [The Global Warming Conference recommends strengthening the legislative structure to reduce the effects of climate change](https://epda.rak.ae/the-global-warming-conference-recommends-strengthening-the-legislative-structure-to-reduce-the-effects-of-climate-change/): At the conclusion of the Fifth World Conference on “Global Warming: Environmental Commitment” Organized by EPDA, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, confirmed that the UAE, represented by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and local authorities, is keen to create a legislative system that defines the basics and requirements of environmental conservation. Moreover, to ensuring the sustainability of their natural resources and meeting the challenges of climate change and global warming.Global warming conference made many recommendations, Among them is the importance of strengthening the legislative structure related to reducing the effects of climate change including Harmonize sectoral policies and strategies related to activities. Doing that will contribute to increasing the impacts of climate change to ensure efficient enforcement of legislation. This will This achieve appropriate levels of commitment that contribute to harmonization between different sectors. Also to promote the use of modern technologies, including satellite applications, to enhance the quality of scientific research aimed at studying the effects of climate change. In the conference, they encouraged current trends in carbon storage. In addition, they promote activities to increase the storage capacity of eco-systems, in particular marine and coastal eco-systems.WorksheetsThe conference, which held every two years in Ras Al Khaimah, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, presented 30 specialized worksheets during its 5th year. Which focused on environmental legislation, implementation mechanisms and their impacts. In addition, it discussed the role of climate change and its impacts on the marine eco-system, and to studies on the extent to which modern technological developments contribute to reducing the effects of global warming and climate change policies.The conference sessions highlighted the study of the map of coastal and marine environments of the northern regions of the UAE, which covered more than 700 kilometers of diverse environments in the country's northern regions. Presented by WWF and Emirates Wildlife Consortium. The study indicated that there are more than 15 diverse habitats in Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain - [15 diverse habitats in Ras Al Khaimah's marine environment](https://epda.rak.ae/15-diverse-habitats-in-ras-al-khaimahs-marine-environment/): A study within the project map of coastal and marine environments, showed that Ras Al Khaimah contains more than 15 diverse marine habitats, which will enable to promote fisheries, and to support the maritime system in the emirate. Dr. Daniel Molina (the lead author of the 700-square-kilometer study in the northern region, provided by the World Wildlife Fund in collaboration with Emirates Wildlife Group), that Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain are among the most diverse marine habitats.For his part, Dr. Saber Hussein of the Department of Geography at the Faculty of Science at the University of the UAE, stated that a scientific team from the university conducted a study on 15 underground wells in the area of Wadi Al-Bayh in Ras Al Khaimah. To study radon gas and its relationship to groundwater, to find that the wells are free of this toxic element, and that the groundwater is clear and safe, and characteristic for human use.This came during the sessions of the second day of the 5th international conference in Ras Al Khaimah on global warming, under the title of “Environmental Commitment".In which scientists and specialists discussed their scientific papers, and centered on the importance of framing legislation and laws to intensify efforts in the face of climate change. - [50% of Ras Al Khaimah Cement Plants implement waste energy utilization project to reduce thermal pollution](https://epda.rak.ae/50-of-ras-al-khaimah-cement-plants-implement-waste-energy-utilization-project-to-reduce-thermal-pollution/): The Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi stated that 50% of the cement factories in Ras Al Khaimah apply the waste energy utilization project in their plants, in order to reduce heat pollution and air pollution significantly. The majority of energy is recycled in the system through the waste heat recovery technology, which reduces the exploitation of electricity and saves it. One company was able to produce 8000 MW within a month using this new technology. In the 5th International Conference on Global Warming, under the title (Environmental Commitment), and organized by the EPDA in Ras Al Khaimah from 26 to 28 March 2019. Under the patronage and presence of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. With the participation of a number of specialists and officials at the level of the region and the world. Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi explained that use alternative fuels in cement plants contribute to the disposal of some types of waste such as used tires, wood and oil residues. 83% of cement companies in Ras Al Khaimah used 18% of the total alternative fuels used to operate their plants. In accordance with Ministerial Decision No. 137 on the guidelines for the organization of the work of cement factories for the year 2012 to encourage factories to use alternative fuels of various types.He added that future plans of the ministry aim to increase the use of factories for alternative fuels resulting from waste treatment operations, which will contribute to the preservation of non-renewable natural resources.Al Zeyoudi pointed out that environmental laws and legislation contributed to controlling the environmental impact of industries. Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has obliged the owners of the establishments to link the emissions from the chimneys directly with central control units, which authorizes the local authorities to monitor the factories and act appropriately in case of any exceeding the limits allowed.The joint audits between specialists from the Ministry and EPDA on priority establishments at different periods have played a major role in the inspection and controlling for industrial zones and their compliance with the laws and regulations stipulated. Climate change and the problem of global warming have become the most important challenge for the international community with the increasing repercussions that the countries of the world are witnessing at the present time from rising temperatures, tsunamis, hurricanes, floods and droughts.For his part, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA in Ras Al Khaimah, said that the conference would witness the presentation of 30 specialized scientific papers from more than ten countries representing the Arab region, the African continent and the Middle East, in addition to the European Union and the United States of America.He added that the scientific papers would discuss environmental legislations and mechanisms for their implementation and their effects and the role of climate change and its effects on the marine eco-system. In addition to case studies to comply with government policies and regulations to combat global warming and the extent to which recent technological developments have contributed to reducing the effects of global warming. The conference will also discuss climate change and adaptation policies and reduce the impact of global warming on threatened species in different ecosystems. - [Ras Al Khaimah Ruler inaugurates 5th International Conference on Global Warming](https://epda.rak.ae/ras-al-khaimah-ruler-inaugurates-5th-international-conference-on-global-warming/): His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, inaugurated today the 5th World Conference under the title «Environmental commitment». Which is organized by the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah during the period from 26 to 28 March, with wide participation of environmental specialists, in Al Hamra Conference Hall. The conference will highlight on government policies and regulations in the fight against global warming, and environmental policies related to natural resources, Energy, transportation and green buildings. As well as highlighting ethics and justice in shaping climate change policies, and environmental adaptation to the effects of global warming on different eco-systems. Also to reducing the impact of global warming on endangered species. - [Using camel and tree residues to operate cement factories for the first time locally](https://epda.rak.ae/using-camel-and-tree-residues-to-operate-cement-factories-for-the-first-time-locally/): EPDA revealed the success of the cement factories in the emirate in using camel waste, trees and some solid waste and converting it to energy used in the operation of factories, what contributed to the decline in the dumping of such waste in landfills rates, which reduced the waste in the landfills. This comes in a step within the national strategy to conserve natural resources and raise recycling rates. EPDA also closed a tire recycling plant for violating environmental laws related to increasing emissions.There are great efforts being made at the country level to optimize the industrial sector, as it is a vital and important sector of the national economy in parallel with the application of the concept of sustainability on life. Also, to reduce energy use and the depletion of natural resources.EPDA has closed a tire recycling plant due to increased harmful emissions and air pollution, and allowed the entire plant to be changed as part of strict measures to maintain a clean and pollutant-free environment. Moreover, the inspection procedures also tightened all operating establishments to comply with the environmental laws governing the work.EPDA unveiled a new step to unify the specifications related to the products of cement factories operating in Ras Al Khaimah. In addition to the standardization of environmental conditions, emissions control and methods of using alternative energy in the production process. The introduction of tree and camel waste into the industry, which is being carried out for the first time in the region, has been a major success for its significant contribution to reducing landfill operations in the Emirate, to take advantage of the power needed to run factories. This technique is to be used for the first time locally.There are other experiments under study to expand their use in the future include the utilization of furnace heat and conversion of energy to reduce the use of electricity in the operation of energy-intensive cement plants. As well as other study, which is related to the use of cooking oil residues in the industry.Prevent the use of slurry in the recycling of oilsThe use of slurry in oil recycling has been banned in the factories operating in the Emirate. This is because of the danger of using this technique in refining oils and the slurry from the recycling process contains amounts of toxic oxides, which are often disposed of by being dumped landfills, which represents a hazard to the environment as a result of these oxides running out of the surrounding soil. These factories are currently under periodic inspections. EPDA will use remote mentoring in the coming period, besides the regular mentoring inspections for their factories to ensure the efficient operations of these factories from an environmental point of view.Water ConservationWith regard to the use of groundwater in factories, Al Ghais stressed that water conservation is a strategic goal that the country is working to achieve, as water is an important natural resource for a country that has no natural resource other than rain to feed the underground stock. In order to conserve this important resource, EPDA has succeeded in reducing the use of groundwater by factories. So far, 60% of groundwater use has been discontinued in the industrial plants of Al Ghail, after the completion of the extension of these factories desalination water required to operate these factories.There are Future plans include supplying desalinated water to other factories In order to completely stop the use of groundwater in these factories. There are also other steps to preserve groundwater in non-industrial sectors relate to stopping the drilling of groundwater wells in all areas of the Emirate, in addition to the legalization and control of existing ground wells, which are being used in farms and other facilities. When it comes to fishing sector, Al Ghais revealed a study by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to measure the impact of the period of banning Sheri and Safi fish, which started early this month and will continue until the first of next May. This study will include many points related to the ban period and its impact on the size and quantity of fish and others. EPDA has started to tighten inspection procedures on all fishing ports, markets and fish shops to ensure the implementation of the Ministry's decisions, which enacted to maintain fish stocks.The ban on the import of these fish comes during the ban period to prevent any excesses by fishermen during the fishing period. In addition to achieving the required benefit of fishermen from catching the remaining species allowed for fishing during this period, which is no less important than Sheri and Safi. As customers prefer to buy fresh local fish over imported in general.Fishing sector gets a great government support because of its great importance. As being one of the heritage professions for local men. Ras Al Khaimah has 1206 fishermen and 8 fishing ports which have been fully modernized under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. It now includes all the equipment required for the fishing sector. The last period witnessed the completion of the fencing of seven of the eight ports in the Emirate. In addition to the opening of the ice factory in Ras Al Khaimah port, which saved fishermen and traders about 40% of the price of snowboards that were brought from factories far from the port. That there are attempts to provide ice in all ports of the Emirate during the coming period to achieve the required benefit for all fishermen in all ports. EPDA also completed the landing platform near the fish market, which now accommodates six boats together during the landing process. Preventing excesses of Picnic FishingAbout picnic fishing permits, there are deterrent procedure that will be taken during the coming period to prevent the excesses of some of the owners of these licenses, represented in commercial fishing, and tries to compete with licensed fishermen in violation of the law, and to mention that a small group of licenses holders exploit them in an abusive manner. EPDA will take appropriate procedure to deter violators, which may include revocation of such licenses.Ghaf and DimasThere are plans to expand the planting of Ghaf trees in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah during the coming period, in cooperation with a specialized company, in parallel with the elimination of damas trees harmful to the environment. About 6,000 trees were disposed, as they are harmful to the environment as use water intensively. In addition to their harmful effects on the walls of houses and water and sanitation systems, where their roots crawl behind the water and penetrate these systems. There is cooperation with the residents to remove this tree and cut it to avoid mention damages. - [Seagulls in UAE’s coasts](https://epda.rak.ae/seagulls-in-uaes-coasts/): Seagulls are landing in the UAE among thousands of birds, which visit the country's coastline as part of its long migration routes around the world.“Seagulls are a guest on the UAE's extended coastline during the winter season, due to the colder temperatures during this season in Europe,” said Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Marine Environmental Specialist, and General Manager of EPDA. Migratory birds re-move westward at the height of the summer locally and regionally, during June and July each year; this time to escape the high temperatures and humidity.The presence of seagulls is an indication of the abundance of small sardines. Many seagulls and birds are heading to the islands of the UAE in particular, especially in the western region. - [Substitution of fishermen's platform in the fish market in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/substitution-of-fishermens-platform-in-the-fish-market-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Ras Al Khaimah Environmental Protection and Development Authority announced the replacement of the fishermen's platform in Ras Al Khaimah Fish Market in cooperation with Saqr port, and devote the platform to download the catch of fish, from boats coming from the sea daily. This followed the break-up of the old "Fardha", which was established about 30 years ago.Fishermen demanded to accelerate the replacement of the platform in light of its seriousness, and how it obstructing work in the strategic marine fishing sector, for the safety of fishermen and sea workers, citizens and Asians, in order to facilitate their daily work in a dynamic career. The completion of the installation of the new platform comes after the EPDA received a complaints from the local fishermen about the old one, and they were requesting to substitution it with a new one. - [20 thousand tons per year is the fishing catch in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/20-thousand-tons-per-year-is-the-fishing-catch-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, said that the fishing quantities in the Ras Al Khaimah's coasts are estimated at 20,000 tons annually. Includes the catch of picnic fishing, which does not have exact numbers. The number of marine fishing licenses, currently registered is 1,200 licenses.Al-Ghais pointed out that the share of fishermen has decreased by up to 50% compared to the late 1980s and early 1990s. Due to increased fishing effort, which includes increment of numbers of fishermen, boats, fishing trips and equipment. On the other hand, Sheri breeding period is a bit longer. Autumn months (September, October, and mid-November), which fishermen have proposed to prevent Sheri and Safi fishing, is not a breeding season, and it is useless to prevent fishing during it.Protecting Sheri and Safi stocks could be possible by limiting the fishing effort, which targets these fishes by preventing fishing in breeding periods, or prohibiting it in nursery areas of young fish.The law prohibits the catch of small fish, a benthic species, which are caught by fishing cages, which enables the fisherman to re-release them into the sea while alive.EPDA is working with the Ministry of Climate Change to prevent small-scale fishing, to give it the opportunity to grow, what is known in fish biology as stock entry periods, by controlling the size of the meshes and the traps (fishing cages). Also by emphasizing the size of fish allowed to be caught, and mentoring over fish sizes reaching fish markets. - [Completion of 81424 customer services in 2018](https://epda.rak.ae/completion-of-81424-customer-services-in-2018/): EPDA provided 81,424 customer and community services, categorized on 97 services during 2018. EPDA also launched the project of fishing ports, remote inspection, and surveillance by drone aircraft on a number of industrial zones. In addition, to mention Feminine mentoring award which received the Gold Class from the British Ideas Organization, as the first government agency in Ras Al Khaimah to register its initiative with the British Ideas Organization.Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais Director General of EPDA, stated that EPDA increased the number of institutional capacities from 205 in 2017 to 235 in 2018, an increment of 14.6%. We also developed the organizational structure to comply with the new strategy of EPDA by creating two departments, 3 offices, 5 divisions, and 3 units under the Institutional Development Office. As well as electronically issuing, renewing and amending 7339 environmental permits for industrial and professional establishments, without the need to visit the EPDA’s building to facilitate investors and ensure the ease of doing business.Fishing sectorAl Ghais pointed out that the project of artificial marine caves involved landing of 973 artificial caves in 9 sites along the coast of Ras Al Khaimah of 64 kilometers, which helped increase the fishery stocks in the Emirate, and to benefit from the project in the future to support the axis of eco-tourism by investing in these artificial models. This project will help to mentor the city of diversity of marine organisms in and around and the growth of coral reefs and sponges on them as an environmental tourist attraction for diving enthusiasts and eco-tourism. EPDA issued and renewed 1017 picnic fishing licenses, and provided 1035 shelters for fishing workers, and 1,186 fishing berths in the emirate's ports and 462 stores for fishermen's tools and supplies. There is also “Hasbah” initiative for the happiness of fishermen, through which the development of the fishermen happiness center at Ras Al Khaimah Port has been completed. There were developments of many e-services related to fishing licenses. EPDA also establishment of two ice factories and 5 fishing boat repair workshops to provide the best services to the fishing industry.Tanks TrackingAl Ghais explained that the EPDA has launched “Tarf” system to track liquid tankers to monitor and regulate the disposal of materials at designated sites. This came with the issuance of 18 licenses for the use of groundwater wells, 524 NOC for tank license, 1949 NOC to import chemicals, 236 NOCs for chemical export, and 29 NOCs for transportation of used oils from Ras Al Khaimah ports. EPDA managed to deliver desalinated water to 120 farms for irrigation to ensure that groundwater is not depleted in the Ghail and Hamraniya areas.Irregularities replacement EPDA launched the initiative to replace the value of fines and environmental violations for industrial and professional establishments. This is the first of its kind to replace the value of fines by planting local trees. Within the vision and orientations of Ras Al Khaimah and in support of the EPDA’s strategic objectives of reducing the carbon footprint and encouraging all members of the community to plant local trees. According to the mechanism of implementation of the initiative, a minimum of a redeemable offense of AED 1,000 for industrial establishments and AED 500 for professional establishments. Types of trees that will be planted through this mechanism were limited to local trees such as Sidr, Samar and Ghaf, as well as other species with little water need.Feminine mentoring EPDA launched "Feminine Mentoring for Sustainable Environment" initiative, the first government initiative in Ras Al Khaimah to be registered with the British Ideas Organization in 2018, which received the Gold category. This initiative led to the rationalization of expenses worth 1.45 million AED.EPDA issued 30648 reports on air quality in various areas of Ras Al Khaimah, especially on industrial zones, inside crushers and cement factories, and within government and educational institutions, houses, etc. In addition, it conducted 568 analyzes of reservoir, soil and fish samples to ensure a healthy environment, in addition to measuring the environmental footprint for the first time by EPDA monitors, using Estidama application for 54 residential, industrial and commercial establishments, evaluating EIA studies for 50 studies, and successfully handling 65 environmental complaints. - [Memorandum between Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and EPDA](https://epda.rak.ae/memorandum-between-ministry-of-climate-change-and-environment-and-epda/): The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on enhancing environmental cooperation. In order to benefit both sides from the huge and specialized expertise in the field of environmental protection, and to spread this benefit among the sectors of society in Ras Al Khaimah and contribute to achieving these benefits at the federal level, with a view to achieving a sustainable environment.This memorandum comes in line with the recommendations of the wise leadership to enhance partnership and cooperation between the institutions and government agencies in the country and to contribute to the UAE Vision 2021. The MoU was signed by HE Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, and Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA. Both sides agreed to exchange information on emissions from industrial plants and the environmental effects of economic activities. In addition to building specialized technical capacities in the areas of strategic environmental planning, exchange of information on climate change, and joint work between the parties in the field of climate change, biodiversity and environmental awareness. Based on that, the ministry will promote regionally and internationally about the International Conference on Global Warming which is organized periodically by EPDA. - [Campaign to clean the beach of Al Hamra village](https://epda.rak.ae/campaign-to-clean-the-beach-of-al-hamra-village/): EPDA organized a public beach cleaning campaign in Al Hamra Village with the participation of Al Hamra Real Estate Development Company, Ras Al Khaimah Medical Zone, and Public Services Department. About 740 kilograms of waste were removed with participation of 300 volunteers.The campaign aims to raise environmental awareness, and to show the importance of voluntary work for the environment. In addition to spreading and promoting environmental awareness and responsibility among members of the community to maintain a natural and clean environment and to promote environmental hygiene behavior among all segments of society. - [Launching of the second session of Environment Protectors Teams in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/launching-of-the-second-session-of-environment-protectors-teams-in-ras-al-khaimah/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority announced yesterday that they are aiming to get participation of 50% of Ras Al Khaimah’s schools in Environmental Protection Team Award in its second session, which objects to promote the UAE Vision 2021, in achieving sustainable development and the preservation of the environment and natural resources.Dr. Saif Al Ghais Director General of EPDA stated during the award launching ceremony that students who participate in this award will have more knowledge about protecting the environment and sustain natural resources. This comes as part of EPDA’s strategy for environmental awareness through the educational approach. With that, we are going to transfer the environmental culture through school students to other categories in the society, and plant the environmental concept in future generations and rely on them in the renaissance of society and the sustainability of the environment. - [Hosting of UAE Inculcation Initiative](https://epda.rak.ae/hosting-of-uae-inculcation-initiative/): EPDA hosted 61 students for UAE Inculcation Initiative, which was launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak the chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, and the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (Mother of the Nation). The hosting was held in Khor Al Muzahmi Reserved Area. - [Plant a tree to commemorate](https://epda.rak.ae/plant-a-tree-to-commemorate/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has launched a campaign under a name of “plant a tree to commemorate” within the activities of Feminine Mentoring for a Sustainable Environment Initiative to grow local trees in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah such as Sidr, Samar, Ghaf and Shraish. This campaign comes also under the initiative of one million and one trees, in honor of giving and sacrifice, and in fulfillment of our heroic martyrs. 1500 trees were distributed to schools, in addition to afforestation of Ras Al Khaimah fishermen’s port and distribution of a number of seedlings in Ras Al Khaimah Fish Market. 90 volunteers from different areas of Ras Al Khaimah participated in the campaign, including seven schools. The number of volunteering hours during the initiative reached 200 hours. - [3rd International Conference on the Environment of the Arabian Gulf Water](https://epda.rak.ae/3rd-international-conference-on-the-environment-of-the-arabian-gulf-water/): In the presence of His Excellency Dr. Thani Zouaydi, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA participated at the 3rd International Conference on the Environment of the Arabian Gulf Water, organized by the UAE University. - [EPDA launches Green Harbor initiative](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-launches-green-harbor-initiative/): In pursuance efforts of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, to encourage customers in framework of its keenness to provide high quality services, to suit the needs of the customers in order to achieve the highest degree of satisfaction and happiness, EPDA continued to complete the activities of Al Hasbaa Initiative for fishermen where EPDA launched "Green Harbors", which the Authority intends to organize in all ports of the emirate in an effort to strengthen the relationship with its customers from the fishermen, to listen their needs and visualizations and to devote more time to enhance the services provided to them, in addition to honoring the leading fishermen in the field of fishing.The Authority also seeks to implement environmentally friendly practices and standards of green buildings in ports such as replacing lamps with solar energy lamps to rationalize energy consumption in addition to establishing a park for fishermen in ports, in order to reduce emissions to mitigate the impact on global climate change and to reduce carbon footprint. In addition, it aims to encourage and educate its customers, including fishermen and their workers, to adopt best environmental practices that not only reduce energy consumption but also contribute to the protection and sustainability of natural resources.Special services for fishermenDr. Saif Al-Ghais, Managing Director of Environment Protection and Development Authority said that, the Authority attaches extreme importance to the customers and working to launch initiatives and programs that enhance the Authority's experience to provide high quality services to its customers, reflecting the distinguished cultural reputation of the State, where the EPDA plans to launch additional services for fishermen, such as the establishment of a seafarers service center in the harbors of Maered , Ras Al Khaimah and Ghalilah, where the provision of Wi-Fi services, in addition to providing fishing gear and boat repair workshops, and will also be contracted with one of the men's shaving salons in the emirate to provide a shaving service for fishermen at the harbors. - [EPDA wins Julphar Finance Award](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-wins-julphar-finance-award/): Environment protection and development authority of Ras Al Khaimah won the first place in the Julphar Finance Award for Excellence as the best government agency committed to the implementation of accounting policies and procedures in 2017.This award is the first of its kind in Ras Al Khaimah, with participation of 16 local government entities. The award also included categories of the best party in the percentage of commitment to the budget and the best government agency committed to the application of tax measures "VAT" and the best performance of the supplier to meet government needs. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, stated that within the framework of the Authority's commitment to accounting policies and procedures, the Authority has achieved the first place at the level of all government entities in the Ras Al Khaimah in adhering to the monthly closure of revenues on time by 100%. EPDA also achieved second place in commitment to the time limit in posting transactions by 88.9%, as well as achieving 99.4% in the ratio of the holdbacks in the cash accounts. EPDA also achieved 94.9% in the completion rate. Overall, the compliance rate of EPDA accounting policies and procedures in general reached 87.3%, so, that what made EPDA in the first place for this category. - [EPDA Organizes "Pulse" Campaign](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-organizes-pulse-campaign/): In pursuance of the efforts of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, to encourage its customers in the framework of its keenness to provide high quality services to suit the needs of the customers in order to achieve the highest degree of satisfaction and happiness, EPDA continued to complete the activities of Al Hasbaa initiative for fishermen which includes the "Pulses" campaign, by making free medical examinations for fishing workers in cooperation with Ras Al Khaimah Medical Zone and Emirates Hospitals in all ports of the Emirate, the campaign came as a continuation of the Authority's efforts , to raise the level of satisfaction and happiness of its customers to the highest levels. Al Hasbaa initiative is one of the main initiatives that EPDA is working on, which emphases on the category of fishermen in the emirate. The initiative has several sub-activities such as the " Forgiveness Iftar" project in the month of Ramadan, this project is one of the community initiatives undertaken by the Authority, to delight its customers targeting the category of fishermen workers in the Emirate, Where Iftar was provided daily to fishermen workers in the port of Ras Al Khaimah, Maeerid Port and Al Jazira Al Hamra Port.Leadership meeting in RAK in support of the marine environment under the slogan “Our Fish wealth and Fishermen Happiness”Which is considered the first kind of initiative lunched by EPDA at the emirate level, Minister of Climate Change, Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Environment and Local Leaders of Ras Al Khaimah, planted about 300 mangrove trees , This is inline with the RAK 2030 Government's strategy to make the Emirate sustainable and maintain the cohesion of the UAE's cultural community and heritage.Dr. Saif Al-Ghais, Managing Director of Environment Protection and Development Authority said that, the Authority attaches utmost importance to the customers and is working to launch initiatives and programs which enhances the experience of the Authority to provide high-quality services to customers , reflecting the distinguished cultural reputation of the state, the campaign is also aimed at raising the workers' awareness of the need to pay attention to their health and follow healthy life approaches. And that the category of workers is an important and effective part of society and an integral part of its active components and support them by all means within the priorities of EPDA, where the campaign is an expression of the Authority's keenness with its strategic partners to thank the workers and enhance their important role and draw a bright smile on their faces. - [Her Highness Amna Al Qassimi , Minister Community Development and Food Security, launched award for Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment](https://epda.rak.ae/her-highness-amna-al-qassimi-minister-community-development-and-food-security-launched-award-for-feminine-monitoring-for-sustainable-environment/): Under the patronage and presence of Her Highness Sheikha Amna Bint Saud Al Qasimi , Her Excellency Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid Minister of Community Development, Her Excellency Mariam Bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Al Mehairi Minister of State for Food Security, Naema Abdullah Al Sharhan, Member of the Federal National Council , Ras Al Khaimah's Environmental Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) launched the first edition of Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment Award, which has been listed in the Golden category of the “UK Ideas” Foundation for 2018 as an idea and a pioneering initiative globally , unprecedented in the field of environmental work. The award also featured a constellation of women leaders and environmental leaders in the federal and local sectors of all emirates, As well as distinguished guests from outside the country Dr. Wafa al-Tassan from Saudi Arabia and Dr. Faiza Al Yamani from Kuwait.Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Managing Director of the Authority, explained to the guests that this award focused on the vision of women empowering for a sustainable environment through the creation of environmentally friendly practices resulting from encouraging women to make voluntary efforts to protect the environment and sustainability resources , honoring women's outstanding efforts in the environmental field.This award was derived from the initiative of Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment launched by EPDA since 2015 with the aim of attracting women in various categories to play a voluntary role in the community to monitoring and evaluating the various environmental activities and providing environmental measurement services.Dr. Saif Al Ghais added that, the initiative Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment and other innovative environmental initiatives launched by the Authority and achieved leadership positions for Ras Al Khaimah, both locally and globally, this initiative launched the keenness of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, he is keen on protecting the environment and sustaining its resources in line with the country's orientations and in line with the UAE National Vision 2021 under the theme of a sustainable environment and an integrated infrastructure under the axis of the competitive knowledge economy (Global Innovation Index). The Authority has translated these trends into a number of initiatives, including the " Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment ,the initiative received the honorary patronage of Her Highness the Ruler of the Emirate: HH Sheikha Hana Bint Juma Al Majed - may God save her.Naema Abdullah Al Sharhan, Member of the Federal National Council said, “Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment is an innovative product of the state's interest and leadership in empowering women and their concern for environmental protection and sustainability of their resources at the same time. These priorities were established by Sheikh Zayed, may God rest his soul, the founder of the state in its values and practices and followed by the wise leadership after him.Engineer Moza Obaid Al Mehairi, Assistant Director General , Environment Protection and Development Authority , That the award aims at keeping pace with the state's directions in empowering women and proving their capabilities in giving and applying best practices in the field of environmental protection and sustainable resources, raising the level of awareness and environmental knowledge and the degree of familiarity with compliance with federal and local laws related to the environment in different sectors of society, Promote volunteerism in environmental field work, and encourage institutions and teams to excel in research and innovation to provide solutions to environmental issues and challenges, The award includes categories of programs and outstanding practices in the field of food security, the best researcher in the field of environmental work, environmental work leaders , the category of the environmentally distinct institution , the best women's environmental working group.At the end of the ceremony, Her Highness Sheikha Amna Bint Saud Al Qasimi , Her Excellency Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid Minister of Community Development, and Her Excellency Mariam Bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Al Mehairi Minister of State Food Security, honored the leaders of environmental work at the level of the State institutions concerned with environmental affairs , volunteers in a Feminine monitoring initiative for a sustainable environment. - [Three Marine observation stations in RAK](https://epda.rak.ae/three-marine-observation-stations-in-rak/): Ras Al Khaimah Environmental Protection and Development Authority announced the installation of three floating observation stations in three different locations along the coastline of the Emirate, operated by solar energy to ensure access to information directly to the operating room to monitor the marine environment.In addition, the installation of the three new stations is part of the Authority's efforts to develop its programs in the marine monitoring of the emirate's coasts in order to enhance the sustainability of the marine and coastal environment. Also, the floating stations contributes to the monitoring the marine environment, water temperatures and oxygen content, water current and etc. - [World Water Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-water-day/): EPDA organized "For Water Sustainability exhibition " at Al Manar Mall, in conjunction with World Water Day under the theme "Nature for Water", which falls on 22 March each year. - [Environmental Researcher workshop](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-researcher-workshop/): EPDA accomplished its series of workshops an "Environmental Researcher" in the Khor Al-Muzahmi Reserve, with the participation of 300 students from different classes of the school, to promote environmental awareness among students. In addition, EPDA has introduce to them the importance of Mangrove and how it’s grow and tolerate water salinity, also they have been involved in the collection of waste on its shores and allowing students to practice fishing and the collection of jellyfish, snails and other neighborhoods of the protected waters.This is in line with the vision of the UAE and the government of Ras Al Khaimah t to insist awareness among the various members of the community. - [Al Marjan Clean-up campaign](https://epda.rak.ae/al-marjan-clean-up-campaign/): As part of a series of beach cleaning campaigns organized by EPDA in corporation with General Services Department - Waste Management - under the slogan " Clean Our Beaches ", the Authority organized a campaign to clean the "Al marjan beach” with the participation of Ras Al Khaimah Police and Ras Al Khaimah Hospital, On, 24 February 2018 has been the extraction of waste approximately 1320 kg and the participation of about 300 participants from various groups of the community volunteers and employees of the federal , local sectors and private sectors, in addition to students and university students. The campaign aims at spreading environmental awareness among the members of the community by encouraging them to follow the best environmental practices to preserve the environment and clean the beaches, in addition to raising the awareness of the community about the importance of maintaining the cleanliness of the beaches. To promote the environmental hygiene behavior among all segments of society and to promote environmental volunteerism among all groups. To promote the environmental hygiene behavior among all segments of society and to promote environmental volunteerism among all groups.In addition, the main aim of the campaign is to insist healthy values and behaviors in youth through their participation in the activities of EPDA to maintain the cleanliness of the beaches.However, the garbage does not only affect the aesthetic and cleanliness of the waterfront, but that the waste affects negatively on the marine environment, appealed for the need to maintain the cleanliness of the beaches, by moving away from practices and behaviors incorrect-civilization which is throwing of waste on the beaches. - [Requiring industrial facilities to reduce carbon footprint](https://epda.rak.ae/requiring-industrial-facilities-to-reduce-carbon-footprint/): 'akadat hayyat himayat albiyat fi ras alkhaymati, 'anaha 'alzamat jmye almunshat alsinaeiat bialquanin walshurut albiyiyat alty sahamat fi khafd albismat alkarbuniat watarajae nisab altalawuth bihwalay 20% mqarnt bial'aewam almadiati, bhsb alduktur sayf muhamad alghays mudir eami alhayyat.wa'awdah alghis l 'ana alhayyat wthqyqaan limafhum alaistidamat albiyiyat waruyat al'iimarat 2021 najahat fi ghars mafhum alhifaz ealaa albiyat fi eadad kabir min aljumhur eabr aledyd min almubadarat walmuhadarat walnadawat alty nazamatha alhayyat liltaerif bhdha almafhum wamin baynaha alkarnafal albiyiyi aldhy 'atlaqath alddayirat litaslit aldaw' ealaa juhud aldawlat lilhifaz ealaa albiyat, wataeziz musharakat qitaeat almujtamae fi alraqabat waltaweiat albiyiyati, waistidamat altharwat alsamakiat walhaywaniat walziraeiati, wahimayat altanawue alhayawii walmuayil altabieiati, wahimayat wa'iidarat almiah aljufiati, hayth manaeat alhayyat hafr alabar aljawfiat fi jmye almanatiq bial'iimarati, kama 'alzamat jmye almunshat bitarkib eaddadat ealaa alabar alqayimat wahu ma saham fi tarajue aistikhdam hadhih almiah.kama 'atlaqat alhayyat mubadarat raqabat naaeimat libayyat mustadamat, wamashrue firaq hamat albiyat altalabiat bialsharakat mae wizarat altarbiat waltaelimi, walkarnfal albiyiy, wamubadarat almilyun wawahid shijrt, wamusabaqat alaibtikar albiyiyi almadrisii, watatbiqi aistidamat walbayriq, wamashrue tayirat min dun tayar lilmusawihat albiyiyat.wa'ashar alghays 'iilaa 'ana alhayyata, 'atlaqat alraqabat alnnaeimata, watastahdif musharakat aleunsur alnisayiyi fi eamaliat alraqabat albiyiyat fi al'iimarati, kama 'atlaqat mashrue firaq hamat albiyat altalabiati, waladhi yaetamid ealaa naql altaweiat albiyiyat 'iilaa almadarisi, waminha 'iilaa mukhtalif fiat almujtamaei, min khilal ghars almafhum albiyiyi ladaa alnash'i, waqad tama tashkil firaq raqabiat taweawiat fi kl madrasat warawdat 'atfali, taezizaan limafhum himayat albiyat waistidamat almawarid altabieiati, wataqum alhayyat bitaqdim aldaem alfaniyi lifirq hamat albiyat altalabiat min khilal aldawrat altadribiat almajaniat bimaqar almadarisi, waqad tam taqdim muhadarat l 469 talbaan wmelmaan fi 8 madaris hataa alan.jaridat alaitihadhttp://alittihad.ae/details.php?id=10861&y=2018Show more1780/5000The Environmental Protection Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has confirmed that it has committed all industrial facilities to environmental laws and conditions that contributed to reducing the carbon footprint and reducing pollution rates by about 20% compared to previous years, according to Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA. Al Ghais explained that, in order to achieve the concept of environmental sustainability and the UAE Vision 2021, EPDA succeeded in instilling the concept of conservation of the environment in a large number of the public through many initiatives, lectures and seminars organized by the EPDA to introduce this concept, including the environmental carnival launched by the Department to highlight the efforts of the UAE to preserve the environment. EPDA works in enhancing the participation of the social sectors in environmental monitoring and awareness, and sustainability of fisheries, livestock and agriculture. As well as the protection of biodiversity and natural habitats, and protection and management of groundwater, where EPDA prevented the drilling of groundwater wells in all areas of Ras Al Khaimah. EPDA also obliged all industrial facilities to install meters on existing wells, which contributed to the decline in the use of this water. EPDA also launched "feminine mentoring for sustainable environment" initiative, and environment protection teams for students which is project in partnership with the Ministry of Education, and the environmental carnival, as well as "one million and one tree" initiative, and school environmental innovation competition, in additon to two mobile apps which are Estidama and Albayraq, and the drone project for environmental surveys.Al Ghais pointed out that EPDA, launched "feminine mentoring", aimed at the participation of women in the process of environmental inspection in Ras Al Khaimah, It also launched the Student Environmental Protection Teams project, which relies on the transfer of environmental awareness to schools, and then to various segments of the community, through the inculcation of the environmental concept among young people. EPDA provides technical support to the student environmentalists through free training courses at the school premises. To date, 469 students and teachers in 8 schools have been lectured. - [EPDA provided more than 113,000 customer services in 2017](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-provided-more-than-113000-customer-services-in-2017/): 'anjazat hayyat himayat albiyat waltanmiat biras alkhaymat 113155 khidmatan lilmutaeamilin walmujtamae khilal eam 2017 aistinadaan 'iilaa 23 aikhtisasaan bmwjb alqanun raqm 2 lisanat 2007 fadlaan ean aikhtisasiha bitanzim muhnat sayd al'asmak bmwjb alqanun raqm 11 lisanat 2015 bhsb taqrir alhawkamat alsanawii lieam 2017 .w tatamahwar ruyat alhayyat hawl himayat albiyat waistidamat mawaridiha watunshid risalatuha alaibtikar waltamayuz fi al'asalib alruqabiat waltaweawiat wa'iiedad tashrieat mabniat ealaa baramij bihathiyat mutakhasisat tusahim fi himayat albiyat walmawarid altabieiat , 'iidh aineakasat hadhih alruwyat walrisalat ealaa 35 khidmatan tuqadimuha limukhtalif fiat almutaeamilin walmujtamae.waqal alduktur sayf muhamad alghis almudir altanfidhia lilhayyat 'ana hayyat himayat albiyat biras alkhaymat 'asdarat khilal eam 2017 eadad 1129 rukhsatan sayd hurfiin waeadad 778 rukhsatan sayd alnazhat kama wafarat eadad 218 muskinaan lieummal alsayd albaligh eadaduhum 1035 eamilaan wawafarat eadad 1186 mirsiun lilsayd fadlaan ean 454 mukhazinaan lilsayadin wa'asdarat 3237 tasrihaan byyya lilmunshat alsinaeiat walmihniat tama aisdaruha jamieaan 'iiliktruniaan wadun alhajat liziarat maqari alhayyat wdhlk lidaman tahqiq suhulat mumarasat al'aemal wa'asdarat eadad 398 shahadatan edma mumanaeat liaistirad almawadi alkimiayiyat waeadad 22 shahadatan edma mumanaeat litasdir almawadi alkimiayiyat.wafima yataealaq bihizmat alkhadamat almurtabitat bialtaweiat albiyiyat faqad nazamat wa'atlaqat 148 mutamaraan wamubadaratan mujtamaeiat wamuhadaratan wafaealiat liltaweiat albiyiyat bikhulaf eadad 54032 risalatan nasiatan taweawiatan wajahatha alhayyat limukhtalif fiat almujtamae wayudaf 'iilaa dhlk hirs alhayyat ealaa alaihtifal bieadad 20 munasabatan biyiyatan mahaliyatan waealamiatan wataerif mukhtalif fiat almujtamae bi'ahamiyatiha fi almuhafazat ealaa albiyat waistidamat mawaridiha waean tariq tatbiq aistidamat aldhy 'atlaqath alhayyat khilal eam 2017 aistafad eadad 3395 mustakhdimanaan min khadamat hdha altatbiq almubtakir.wafi 'iitar hizmat khadamat alqias walmusawihat albiyiyat balagh eadad taqarir qias jawdat alhawa' fi mukhtalaf manatiq ras alkhaymat hawl almanatiq alsinaeiat wadakhil alkasarat wamasanie al'asmant wadakhil almuasasat alhukumiat waltaelimiat walmanazil eadad 17516 taqriraan ean jawdat alhawa' kdhlk tama 'akhadh watahlil eadad 9595 eayinat min miah alkhizanat walturbat walaismak wdhlk min ajl daman bayiyat sihiyat wamustadamat lisakaan al'iimarati.wawafarat alhayyat fi 'iitar mubadarat almilyun wawahid shajaratan eadad 20895 shajaratan mahaliyatan qalilat aistikhdam almiah "alghaf walsadar walsumr" watama tawzieiha ealaa aledyd min almuasasat alhukumiat waltaelimiat walmanazil fadlaan ean muhit masajid ras alkhaymat wfq aitifaqiat shirakat 'abramatha alhayyat mae alhayyat aleamat lil'awqaf walshuwuwn al'iislamiat khilal eam 2017 waqamat alhayyat kdhlk bitaqyim eadad 37 dirasatan litaqyim al'athar albiyiyi kama qamat bitaysir eamaliat tawsil almiah almuhlat 'iilaa eadad 68 mazraeatan liaistikhdamiha fi alry lieadm aistinzaf almiah aljawfiat fi mintaqatay 'adhin walghayl mimaa 'asham fi tahsin 'iintaj almahasil alziraeiat kama qamat alhayyat bimuealajat eadad 27 shakwaa biyiyat waqadat ealaa 'asbabuha aljadhriat binajah.wafi 'iitar saeiy alhayyat 'iilaa taeziz al'ajnidat alwataniat liruyat al'iimarat 2021 waistiratijiat hukumat ras alkhaymat 2018- 2030 faqad tawarat waibtakarat eadad 29 mashrueaan wamubadaratan 'iistratijiatan litahqiq 11 hadafaan aistiratijia fi alsanawat 2017-2020 taqae ealaa rasiha bhsb 'awlawiatiha al'iistratijiat 'ahdaf tarsikh mafhum alaistidamat albiyiyat ladaa almunshat alsinaeiat waqitaeat almujtamae watatwir qudrat aldaem almuasisii wataeziz thaqafat alaibtikar walshaffafiat wataqlil albismat albiyiyat fi al'imart wataeziz musharakat qitaeat almujtamae fi alraqabat waltaweiat albiyiyat waistidamat altharwat alsamakiat walhiwaniat walziraeiat wahimayat altanawue alhayawii walmawayil altabieiat fi al'imart wahimayat wa'iidarat almiah aljawfia .w litahqiq hadhih al'ahdaf al'iistratijiat albiyiyat altumuhat bi'aqsaa qadr min alkafa'at walfaeealiat wabima yuhaqiq saeadat mutaeamiliha wamuazafiha washurakayiha wamuridiha wamukhtalif fiat almujtamae wdhlk min khilal tatwir eadad 17 mashrueaan wamubadaratan mubtakiratan mithl almutamar alealamii lilaihtibas alhararii wamubadarat raqabat naaeimat libiyat mustadamat wamashrue firaq humat albiyat altalabiat bialshirakat mae wizarat altarbiat waltaelim walkarnafal albiyiyi wamubadarat almilyun wawahid shajaratan wamusabaqat alaibtikar albiyiyi almadrasii watatbiqi aistidamat walbayriq wamashrue tayirat bidun tayar lilmusawihat albiyiyat wamashrue mabnaa alsaeadat albiyiyat wamubadarat aibtakar fi jalsat biyiyat wamubadarat bayyat la tunam 24/7 walmusabaqat aladbiat walfaniyat latalabat almadaris litanmiat alwaey albiyiyi ladayhim wamubadarat hayyatay huiti waghurfat aleamaliat waltawari albiyiyat almarkaziat walmutaharikat.wawifqaan limanzumat aljil alrrabie liltamayuz faqad 'amkan hasr watasnif eadad 205 qudrat muasisiat lilhayyat ma bayn qawanin waitifaqiat wamarasim wamanhajiat wainzimat eamal wasiasat walawayih wa'adilat 'iirshadiat wamubadarat wamashrueat watatbiqat dhakiat wa'anzamat qias watahlil watama wasaf hadhih alqudrat min hayth alkafa'at walfaeealiat waltaelum waltatwir fadlaan ean 'iidarat waihtisab natayij miat almuashirat walmaqayis al'iistratijiat waltashghiliat almurtabitat biha watawdih namtiatiha wamawqie alhayyat alriyadii fi daw' natayij hadhih alqudrati.wamin 'abraz alqudrat alty haqaqat fiha alhayyat markazaan riadiaan min hayth alnatayij almutamar alealamiu lilaihtibas alhararii waladhi nazamath alhayyat li'arbae dawrat mutataliat khilal alfatrat 2011-2017 muhaqaqat markazaan riadiaan hayth nazamat alhayyat fi 'iibril 2017 mutamar alaihtibas alhararii ean 'iintajiat al'anzimat albiyiyat wa'athar alaihtibas alhararii waladhi qadamat fih nahw 29 waraqatan bahathiyat wamin 'abraz tawsiatih dirasat al'anzimat albiyiyat almukhtalifat fi al'iimarat wa'iisdar taqrir eanha kama 'aelan bed almusharikin min albahithin ean natayij eilmiat nasharat li'awal marat khilal hdha almutamar tushir 'iilaa bed altunabiwaat alty qad taghayar zahirat almunakh fi mintaqat aljazirat alearabiat litadkhul dimn almanatiq almutirati.w haqaqat alhayyat markazaan riadiaan ealamiaan fi mubadarat raqabat mujtamaeiat naaeimat libiyat mustadamat wahi mubadarat mubtakirat wamutafaridat warayidat ealamiaan 'atlaqatha hayyat himayat albiyat waltanmiat biras alkhaymat bihadaf tamkin almar'at min altatawue fiShow more4949/5000Character limit: 5000Ras Al Khaimah Environmental Protection and Development Authority completed 113155 services for customers and society during 2017 based on 23 specializations under Law No. 2 of 2007 as well as its competence to regulate the fishing profession under Law No. 11 of 2015 according to the annual governance report for 2017. The vision of EPDA is to protect the environment and the sustainability of its resources. Its mission is to innovate and distinguish in the methods of monitoring and awareness and to prepare legislation based on specialized research programs that contribute to the protection of the environment and natural resources.This vision and mission is reflected in 35 services offered to different customer and community groups. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Executive Director of EPDA, said that during 2017, EPDA issued 1129 professional fishing licenses and 778 picnic fishing licenses. It also provided 218 shelters for 1,035 fishing workers. EPDA provided 1,186 fishing berths and 454 fish stores. EPDA also issued 3237 environmental permits for industrial and professional establishments, all of which were issued electronically without the need to visit the main building of EPDA in order to ensure the ease of doing business. A total of 398 NOCs were issued for the import of chemicals and 22 NOCs for export of chemicals. With regard to the package of services related to environmental awareness, EPDA organized and launched 148 conferences, community initiatives, lectures and events for environmental awareness. A number of 54032 awareness text messages sent by the Authority to various categories of society. In addition, EPDA was keen to celebrate 20 local and international environmental events and to inform the various segments of society of their importance in the preservation of the environment and the sustainability of its resources and through the implementation of Estidama launched in 2017, 3395 users benefited from the services of this innovative application. Within the framework of measurement and environmental surveys services, the number of air quality measurement reports in various regions of Ras Al Khaimah on industrial zones, inside crushers, cement factories, government institutions, educational institutions and houses was 17516 reports on air quality. 9595 samples of reservoir, soil and fish water were taken and analyzed. To ensure a healthy and sustainable environment for the population of the Emirate.In the framework of the One Million and One Tree Initiative, 20895 local trees have provided the use of water (Ghaf, Sidr and Samar) and were distributed to many governmental and educational institutions and houses as well as the perimeter of Ras Al Khaimah mosques in accordance with a partnership agreement concluded with the General Authority of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs during 2017. EPDA also evaluated 37 environmental impact assessment studies and facilitated the delivery of desalinated water to 68 farms for irrigation, as groundwater was not depleted in the Athan and Al-Gail areas, which contributed to improved crop production. EPDA processed 27 environmental complaints and successfully eliminated their causes.As part of its efforts to promote the UAE National Agenda 2021 and the RAK Government Strategy 2018-2030, EPDA developed and developed 29 strategic projects and initiatives to achieve 11 strategic objectives in 2017-2020. EPDA aims to consolidate the concept of environmental sustainability among industrial establishments and community sectors and develop institutional support capabilities and to promote a culture of innovation and transparency and reducing the environmental footprint in the Emirate. in addition to enhance the participation of the social sectors in environmental monitoring and awareness. EPDA aims to sustain the fisheries, livestock and agriculture, and tp protect Ras Al Khaimah's biodiversity and natural habitats. As well as protecting and managing of groundwater.To achieve these ambitious environmental strategic goals with maximum efficiency and effectiveness, and to achieve the happiness of its customers, employees, partners, suppliers and various segments of society. EPDA developed 17 innovative projects and initiatives such as: Global Warming Conference, feminine mentoring for a sustainable environment initiative, Student Environmental Protection Teams Project in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Environmental Carnival, One Million and One Tree Initiative, School Environmental Innovation Competition, Mobile Apps like Estidama and Al Bairaq, Drones project for environmental surveys, Environmental Happiness Building Project, Environment Never Sleep 24/7 Initiative, Literary and artistic competition for school students to develop their environmental awareness, My Appearance is My Identity Authority Initiative, Central and mobile environmental and operational emergency room.wawifqaan limanzumat aljil alrrabie liltamayuz faqad 'amkan hasr watasnif eadad 205 qudrat muasisiat lilhayyat ma bayn qawanin waitifaqiat wamarasim wamanhajiat wainzimat eamal wasiasat walawayih wa'adilat 'iirshadiat wamubadarat wamashrueat watatbiqat dhakiat wa'anzamat qias watahlil watama wasaf hadhih alqudrat min hayth alkafa'at walfaeealiat waltaelum waltatwir fadlaan ean 'iidarat waihtisab natayij miat almuashirat walmaqayis al'iistratijiat waltashghiliat almurtabitat biha watawdih namtiatiha wamawqie alhayyat alriyadii fi daw' natayij hadhih alqudrati.wamin 'abraz alqudrat alty haqaqat fiha alhayyat markazaan riadiaan min hayth alnatayij almutamar alealamiu lilaihtibas alhararii waladhi nazamath alhayyat li'arbae dawrat mutataliat khilal alfatrat 2011-2017 muhaqaqat markazaan riadiaan hayth nazamat alhayyat fi 'iibril 2017 mutamar alaihtibas alhararii ean 'iintajiat al'anzimat albiyiyat wa'athar alaihtibas alhararii waladhi qadamat fih nahw 29 waraqatan bahathiyat wamin 'abraz tawsiatih dirasat al'anzimat albiyiyat almukhtalifat fi al'iimarat wa'iisdar taqrir eanha kama 'aelan bed almusharikin min albahithin ean natayij eilmiat nasharat li'awal marat khilal hdha almutamar tushir 'iilaa bed altunabiwaat alty qad taghayar zahirat almunakh fi mintaqat aljazirat alearabiat litadkhul dimn almanatiq almutirati.w haqaqat alhayyat markazaan riadiaan ealamiaan fi mubadarat raqabat mujtamaeiat naaeimat libiyat mustadamat wahi mubadarat mubtakirat wamutafaridat warayidat ealamiaan 'atlaqatha hayyat himayat albiyat waltanmiat biras alkhaymat bihadaf tamkin almar'at min altatawue fiShow more1200/5000Character limit: 5000According to the fourth generation system of excellence, it was possible to identify and classify 205 institutional capabilities of the Authority between laws, conventions, decrees, methodologies, work systems, policies, regulations, guidelines, initiatives, projects, smart applications, measurement and analysis systems. These capabilities were described in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, learning and development as well as managing and calculating the results of hundreds of indicators And the associated strategic and operational metrics, clarification of their typicality and leadership position in the light of the results of these capabilities. - [Agreement for afforestation of neighborhoods «Zayed Housing» in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/agreement-for-afforestation-of-neighborhoods-zayed-housing-in-ras-al-khaimah/): The Sheikh Zayed Housing Program in Ras Al Khaimah and EPDA have signed an agreement to raise environmental awareness among the community members in order to preserve the environment and create sustainable development through afforestation of new neighborhoods and residential buildings that the program is building in Ras Al Khaimah. Eng. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director of Customer Happiness Center at Sheikh Zayed Housing Program, Ras Al Khaimah Branch, confirmed that the agreement contributes to achieving the program strategy of applying the highest environmental standards required by green buildings and its main idea is to reduce pollution and energy consumption and the application of the concept of sustainability and preserve the environment while increasing the area Green and ensure the safety of water tanks housing citizens. This is in line with SZHP's strategy to alleviate the needs of parents who can benefit from 14 smart e-services provided by the program to parents can easily benefit. AwarenessDr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA, said that the agreement between the Authority and the program aims at spreading the necessary awareness of the importance of preserving and developing the environment and awareness of the concept of sustainability, especially among residents of the new neighborhoods that the program is establishing in the emirate. Afforestation in residential neighborhoods. He also said that the organization has a comprehensive plan to plant local trees in houses and nearby areas.He added: EPDA will measure according to the agreement the quality of water tanks in the housing and prepare the required reports on this water and the extent of its safety and there will be an awareness campaign carried out by EPDA for homeowners. - [RAK students participate in the Environment Carnival next February](https://epda.rak.ae/rak-students-participate-in-the-environment-carnival-next-february/): EPDA has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign on the UAE's efforts to preserve the environment and ways to enhance these efforts by creating sufficient awareness among all members of society. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of the EPDA, announced during the announcement of the environmental carnival to be organized by the Authority in February, in conjunction with the celebration of the State of Innovation Month, that the Authority will hold distinguished events this year Local development. Through sessions that will be presented for the first time on large vehicles starting from the world mast on the Qawasim Corniche to introduce the public and society to the ecosystems in the UAE, and through 10 paintings will be embodied by paintings carried by carts roaming the Corniche Qawasim.wa'adafa: .watabiea: , mshyraan 'iilaa 'ana alhayyat wajahat aldaewat lilmadaris bial'iimarat waljihat almaeniat kaft bialbayyat lilmusharakat fi hadha alkrnfal aldhy tuda alhayyat min khilalih tarsikh thaqafat alhifaz ealaa albiyat.wa'awdah 'ana allawhat al'ukhraa satatadaman lawhat lilbiyat albahriati, alsahrawiati, aljibliati, alziraeiati, 'iieadat altadwiri, almiah waltaaqati, altaelimu, walsihat walsanaeat.mshyraan 'iilaa 'ana hnak jawayiz satukhasas lilawhat alfayizat bialmarakiz althlatht al'uwlaa eaqib alkarnfal mubashirat.jaridat alaitihadhttp://alittihad.ae/details.php?id=3864&y=2018Show more844/5000He added: «The first panel will be concerned with the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul, in the preservation of the environment and guidance that contributed significantly to the preservation and development of our environment and deal with them in a modern and modern style».He continued: «Sheikh Zayed was the first to enact laws that protect the environment from any unfair interference, and this legacy will be embodied in a painting that tells these efforts, and include some of his words and instructions»Al Ghais pointed out that the Authority has invited schools in the emirate and all concerned with the environment to participate in this carnival, through which the Authority wishes to consolidate the culture of conservation of the environment. Other panels will include panels for the marine, desert, mountain, agricultural, recycling, water and energy environment, education, health and industry. There are prizes to be awarded to the top three winning sessions immediately after the carnival. - [Environmental Education Carnival with the participation of Ras Al Khaimah students](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-education-carnival-with-the-participation-of-ras-al-khaimah-students/): Ras Al Khaimah Environment and Development Authority announced the organization of an environmental educational carnival next month, with the participation of Ras Al Khaimah schools students. EPDA also launched a comprehensive awareness campaign yesterday, to create environmental awareness among all segments of society. Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director EPDA, announced the launch of the environmental carnival, which coincides with the UAE Innovation Month. Dr. Al Ghais stated that The Carnival includes distinctive events that seek to shed a broad spotlight on the UAE's efforts in the field of environmental protection and development, through 10 paintings presented for the first time on large vehicles, starting from the site «Flag pole» in the Corniche Qawasim in Ras Al Khaimah, in order to introduce the community Various segments of the state's environmental efforts."The rest of the paintings address the marine, desert, mountain and agricultural environment, recycling issues, water and energy, education, health and industry." Al Ghais said. - [ISO for Ras Al Khaimah Environment Agency for Customer Services](https://epda.rak.ae/iso-for-ras-al-khaimah-environment-agency-for-customer-services/): Ras Al Khaimah Environmental Protection and Development Authority has been awarded the ISO 9001: 2015 quality management system certification and accredited by the UKAS accreditation body for all its operations and services to customers. At the level of all its organizational units, namely the environmental control, community relations, studies and policies, support services and the human resources, administrative services, financial resources and information technology, in addition to the technical and administrative office and the office of institutional excellence. AchievementDr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Authority said that the ISO 9001 certification is an achievement in addition to the series of achievements of the Authority in the field of development and organizational excellence and the adoption of international best practices and commitment to the implementation of international quality management systems. This is achieved through achieving the highest possible happiness for the customers of the service package provided by the Authority, which reached 35 types of services, and through achieving the highest possible happiness for the employees of the Authority, which already leads the government departments and agencies in the index of functional happiness in Ras Al Khaimah during 2017.In addition to the above, the Authority will achieve many benefits from obtaining this standard such as: improving the overall institutional performance and the ability to continuously meet the requirements of customers and the legal and regulatory requirements that apply to the services provided by the Authority, and improve the ability to deal with risks and exploit opportunities in the environment The Authority's external activities, which are linked to the nature of its work and its strategic objectives.SustainabilityThe application of the ISO 9001: 2015 quality management system extends to the environmental protection process and the sustainability of its resources for all segments of Ras Al Khaimah society by striking a delicate balance between social and economic development and environmental protection. - [Removing hives due to their proximity to schools](https://epda.rak.ae/removing-hives-due-to-their-proximity-to-schools/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, in cooperation with the Department of Public Services in Ras Al Khaimah, has removed a number of beehives in different parts of the Emirate. who complained to EPDA about the danger of nearby honey bees to the students and staff, and the concern and inconvenience caused by it, as well as its proximity to residential areas, where also residents of those areas raised complaints. Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of RAK Environment said "The inspection teams and environmental officers in EPDA during the past stage, imposed irregularities on beekeepers and honey producers, and the removal of many apiaries in different areas of the Emirate" because of beekeeping and their activity near residential and civilian areas and adjacent to schools, and violate the law and environmental regulations and regulations in force, concerning the organization of the beekeeping and honey production sector, which stipulates that the distance between beehives and housing should not be less than half a kilometer. - [735 students participate in the project of environment protection teams in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/735-students-participate-in-the-project-of-environment-protection-teams-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Seventeen public and private schools and kindergartens in Ras Al Khaimah, represented by 735 students, participated in the Student Environment Protection Teams project, which was launched by the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah with the aim of achieving the vision and orientations of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah in protecting the environment and sustaining natural resources. For 2017. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al-Ghais, Executive Director of the Environment Protection and Development Authority, explained that the Environment Protection Teams project provides a new approach to environmental awareness through the educational approach, which depends on the transfer of environmental awareness to schools and to different groups of society through planting the environmental concept among young people as they are future leaders. Who will depend on them for the renaissance of society. The joint project with public and private schools and kindergartens in Ras Al Khaimah is unique by encouraging students to protect and preserve the environment through wearing the uniform of EPDA - where the uniform was distributed to 438 students - and formed awareness control teams in each school and kindergarten to promote the concept of environmental protection And sustainability of natural resources.At the same time, in support of the UAE's vision of 2021, United are united in prosperity and environmental protection. 8 schools to date, and participate in the organization of environmental awareness activities and events in the school and beyond. - [«Feminine Mentoring» records 75 environmental violations in fish markets in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/feminine-mentoring-records-75-environmental-violations-in-fish-markets-in-ras-al-khaimah/): The initiative of «Feminine Mentoring» launched by the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, which involves the participation of community women to control environmental requirements in fish markets, they recorded 75 violations. Yesterday, the initiative launched the second phase of the field tours that targeted houses in various areas of Ras Al Khaimah by visiting the participating women to introduce the environmental requirements and measure the level of air pollution. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, said: " Feminine Mentoring for sustainable environment initiative was launched in the field, targeting the first phase of fish markets and supermarkets, through raising awareness among employees of the most important environmental requirements and warning against violations during the launch of surprise inspection campaigns.'' "the initiative was able during the inspection campaigns carried out during the last period to free 75 different environmental violations, including the failure to put crushed ice on fish and non-compliance with the minimum size of fish." Al Ghais said."the initiative was launched yesterday to implement field visits to homes in some areas of Ras Al Khaimah, and has received positive reactions from various sectors of society and opinion leaders." Al Ghais added.The initiative included the participation of 86 volunteers from different sectors of society, attributed to 14 government and social organizations, other than housewives, by registering and implementing the Feminine Mentoring for Sustainable Environment Initiative. This initiative comes within the framework of the Authority's efforts to strengthen the national agenda of the UAE Vision 2021 and the Government of Ras Al Khaimah Strategy 2018-2030, and to strengthen its institutional capacity,For the first time in the world, a government agency invites women in various categories, including housewives and government employees in the federal and local government sectors, educational leaders, teachers, students and volunteers in associations, clubs, social centers and workers in assistive professions with media interest to play a supervisory role on fish markets and restaurants. As well as providing a service to measure air quality and water quality reservoirs in restaurants, homes, government institutions, educational and coastal and beach control. - [EPDA Is Ranked First In The Happiness In Work](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-is-ranked-first-in-the-happiness-in-work/): Ras Al Khaimah Environmental Protection and Development Authority achieved the first rank in the happiness index during 2017 at the level of government departments and authorities in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, within the requirements of participation in the fourth generation system of government excellence. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Authority, said that this achievement would not have been possible without the support of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, in providing opportunities for EPDA and its employees to achieve a global institutional reputation in creating a sustainable environment. During His Highness's support for the environmental initiatives and projects implemented by EPDA. As well as the follow-up and participation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah and Chairman of the Executive Council of a number of programs and activities of EPDA in order to develop institutional support capabilities and promote a culture of innovation and transparency, and the consolidation of the concept of environmental sustainability, and the sustainability of fish, animal and agricultural wealth, and reduce the environmental footprint in the Emirate. Powers and transparency The delegation of authority and transparency and enhancing the participation of employees in the decision-making process were the passwords in the Authority's leadership in the happiness index, where tasks were exceeded by the expectations of the staff of the Commission such as: membership of ministerial committees and participation in global conferences, and the participation of all members of the Commission in innovative community initiatives that Aims to protect the environment and the sustainability of its resources, and the participation of the members of the Commission in the provision of lectures and the launch of innovative competitions, literary and technical to develop environmental awareness, Within the framework of the project of protecting the student environment for 700 students in different educational levels in kindergartens and schools in the Emirate.Al Ghais said that the pleasant atmosphere in which the employees work has earned them a great deal of excellence in the happiness index. Where they present their innovations in nature sessions within the framework of the «Innovate in an Environmental Session» initiative. EPDA has also succeeded in highlighting the identity of its employees through the uniform which reflects the identity of the Authority and the nature of the various tasks entrusted to it and its members feel happy as a result of the implementation of these works. Examples include sea turtle numbering, diving to cave-dwelling in coastal waters, distribution of low-water local tree seedlings under the One Million Tree Initiative, diversification of the activities of professional and industrial establishments supervised by environmental observers, as well as staff participation in social meetings organized by The Authority is out of working hours. Direct communicationMohamed Fahmy, an expert on organizational excellence, delegated EPDA to flatten the organizational structure of EPDA in terms of short distance between the level of the Executive Director and the rest of the organizational levels, he contributed significantly to this achievement by promoting an open door policy between the Executive Director and all EPDA staff. This has also contributed to the ease and effectiveness of the Authority's horizontal and vertical communication processes, as well as supporting institutional learning processes and enhancing opportunities for all staff to initiate, and innovate. - [86 Volunteers In The Ras Al Khaimah Feminine Mentoring Initiative](https://epda.rak.ae/86-volunteers-in-the-ras-al-khaimah-feminine-mentoring-initiative/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah confirmed the participation of 86 volunteers, from different sectors, from 14 government and social organizations, in addition to a number of housewives, in feminine monitoring for sustainable environment initiative. This initiative was launched recently by EPDA to enable women to volunteer in environmental audits and to provide environmental measurement and awareness services for a “sustainable environment”. Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah: The initiative is part of the Authority's endeavor to strengthen the national agenda of the UAE Vision 2021 and the strategy of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah 2018-2030, and strengthen its institutional capacity. Considering that it is the first time that a government body has taken the initiative to invite women of all kinds, housewives, government employees, educational leaders, teachers, students and volunteers in associations, clubs, social centers and workers in the professions of help, people of concern and media. To females a chance in environmental control role on fish markets and restaurants, and provide air quality measurement service and check the quality of reservoir water in restaurants, houses, government and educational institutions, and control of coasts and beaches.He explained that the initiative of "feminine mentoring for a sustainable environment" was launched in the field. Targeting in its first phase fish markets, supermarkets and houses in some areas of Ras Al Khaimah, and this phase received positive reactions from different sectors and opinion leaders. To the extent that a parent came to the EPDA’s building to thank the volunteers for the test at his house. Volunteers measured air quality, took samples from the reservoir water for analysis, and provided environmental advice.Dr. Al Ghais strained that the volunteers participating in the initiative are ready to provide assistance to various segments of the community, through the «Estidama» application. Which is created by EPDA; to promote innovation and excellence in control methods and awareness, and the preparation of legislation based on specialized research programs, contribute to the protection of the environment and natural resources. The application includes an environmental footprint calculator, a calculator developed based on international best practices, enables the user to know the impact of his activity on the environment, after entering some data on water consumption, energy, the number of cars and the type of activity and the amount of waste. After extracting the result, the application directs environmental tips and provides a comparison between the user's environmental footprint and the global environmental footprint. - [EPDA Launches Intelligent Environmental Licensing Service](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-launches-intelligent-environmental-licensing-service/): HE Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority, has announced the start of the transformation of the environmental licensing process of the Authority to become a smart license instead of the current license. Dr. Al-Ghais explained at the event that the idea of the service came from the direction of the Authority to transfer its services to electronic and smart services, in accordance with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, And smart in the emirate.He added that the objectives to the launch of the new service to achieve the vision of the Authority in developing the mechanism of work, and the application of electronic facilities and solutions possible to customers in the Emirate to raise the level of transactions and raise government competencies.Dr. Al-Ghais pointed out that the new service is concerned with the final step of the procedures currently being implemented, namely the "Receiving" phase. The customer will receive a "QR" code immediately after the license by SMS or e-mail, and the concerned department, The customer will be able to keep his certificates on electronic devices (mobile phone or tablets) or through a small sticker placed on the facility concerned to facilitate the work of the inspector and the subsequent procedures of the body.Dr. Al-Ghais concluded that the implementation of the service and its circulation to be fully traded is a pioneering step in the field of securing documents and government documents as the expected results of the application of the service will benefit all government agencies and it will stimulate dealers to renew their licenses before or immediately after completion And to exclude the idea of bypassing legal proceedings by any means. - [Closure of Tire Recycling Plant for its Environmental Violations](https://epda.rak.ae/closure-of-tire-recycling-plant-for-its-environmental-violations/): The Environmental Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has suspended a recycling plant for car tires and imposed a fine on it, which was described as “Huge”, after seizing a number of environmental violations committed by the industrial establishment and seized by the environmental inspectors. Besides the absence of security and safety standards for workers inside the facility. EPDA stressed that it will not allow the industrial facility to reopen its doors and resume work and production until it ends its violations and meets environmental standards and apply the safety requirements of workers. Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Authority: The factory which is located in Al Ghail Industrial Area, about 45 kilometers south of Ras Al Khaimah, was a surprise inspection by the EPDA's inspectors, which uncovered soil pollution inside and around the industrial facility as a result of many things as: its non-compliance with the regulations, the lack of hygiene in the establishment, and the lack of security and safety systems to enhance the safety of workers and protect them from the risks of accidents and work injuries. Dr. Al-Ghais pointed out to the violations of the factory, yesterday afternoon, in an inspection campaign carried out in the light of a complaint filed by a number of citizens against the facility, pointing out that the factory workers did not comply with wearing "hats" and protective clothing, appropriate for this type of industrial activities, which are practiced inside the facility, in addition The workers are not obliged to wear "protective gloves" in their hands, despite dealing with hazardous materials,Environmental inspectors in Ras Al Khaimah monitored irregularities inside the factory, revealing that the facility lacks the most basic occupational safety standards for workers, including the absence of a "ladder" inside the facility, which forces workers to use traditional "tables" to climb and spend some work and procedures. - [Launch of intelligent inspection for industries in RAK](https://epda.rak.ae/launch-of-intelligent-inspection-for-industries-in-rak/): EPDA has launched the Intelligent Inspection System (BIRQ) to implement intelligent inspection services on professional, professional and industrial facilities in the Emirate to speed up inspection and licensing procedures. The new system has also revealed the compliance of 87% In the liberation of 17 violations against facilities not complying with environmental laws in the Emirate.Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Authority, said that this system is easier and more streamlined than the system used in the past, noting that intelligent inspection contributes to reducing time for customers.He added that the Authority looks forward to providing smart and sophisticated services to keep abreast of the developments witnessed by the Emirate in all fields. He pointed out that the BIRQ system allows appropriate action based on the available information, which contributes to enhancing the flow of inspection, reducing the time and effort on both sides and increasing inspection efficiency. On the industrial and professional establishments in the Emirate and raise its efficiency towards protecting the environment and preserving its natural resources for the better The application also contributes to the inventory of the coordinates of all industrial and professional establishments in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, the registration of all unlicensed establishments, the completion of the environmental data audit of all establishments with the environmental licensing system, the limitation of all environmental violations from the industrial and professional establishments in the Emirate. Environmental data of the Emirate to assist decision-makers in strategic planning, facilitating the work of engineers and field inspectors, building a complete and up-to-date database of environmental pollutants and their sources, monitoring facilities more effectively and The speed of completion of environmental licenses, linking the violations with licenses. - [EPDA Detect Sheri and Safi Fish Forbidden To Catch](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-detect-sheri-and-safi-fish-forbidden-to-catch/): The Executive Director of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, Dr. Saif Al Ghais, said that the inspectors seized a quantity of Safi and Sheri fish temporarily banned from fishing in a commercial store, in violation of the decision of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to ban the fishing, sale, handling and import of Safi and Sheri fish in markets during March and April. Al Ghais explained that the shop owner told the inspectors that he got the fish from people he did not know. Where EPDA confiscated the amount of fish and violated the shop in proportion to violations of the decision to ban fishing. He added that EPDA distrbute its inspectors daily during the morning and evening periods in various ports and places of landing fishing boats, fish markets and shops.To ensure compliance with the decision to ban fishing and sale of Safi and Sheri fish. Al Ghais pointed out that EPDA monitored a full commitment by the fishermen in the emirate to the decision of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to ban Safi and Sheri fishing. No fisherman was found to be in breach of the resolution. He explained that the commitment of fishermen contributes to the control of markets and shops in the Emirate and the implementation of the ministerial decision.He pointed out that the Authority seized last year 15 fishermen and vendors in the emirate's markets in possession of a quantity of fish is not allowed to catch and sell because it is a small size fish without the limit allowed to catch and sell. Some fishermen have been caught practicing fishing in prohibited places in the emirate dedicated to the development of fisheries. He pointed out that the non-compliant fishermen were violated and obliged to sign a pledge not to repeat the violation and abide by the environmental standards in the Emirate. He continued that the Authority has recently lowered more than 600 industrial caves in various marine areas of the Emirate to develop fish stocks and increase the wealth of fish from various local fish. - [Ras Al Khaimah Recorded The Lowest Air Pollution In The Country](https://epda.rak.ae/ras-al-khaimah-recorded-the-lowest-air-pollution-in-the-country/): Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of Ras Al Khaimah Environmental Protection and Development Authority , said that EPDA has witnessed a significant reduction in air pollution in various areas of the emirate during the past year compared to other areas in the country. He explained, during a press conference held at EPDA's building, that «the main reason for the reduction of air pollution is the application of strict environmental measures, against crushers, factories and facilities scattered in the industrial zones in the emirate, specifically in Al Ghail, Al Jazeera Al Hamra and Maritime City». Al Ghais added that «the Authority conducted a comprehensive study to measure the proportion of pollution in Ras Al Khaimah, during the past year, and compared with the rest of the country, and the results showed that the lowest rate of air pollution was in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah». He stressed that «the Commission did not monitor environmental violations of the crushers of the 23 crushers», pointing out that «the low rate of pollution is caused by the commitment of crushers to environmental conditions and standards, imposed by the Authority during the past years». EPDA has committed the crushers to install filters to spray water in the loading areas, and replace imported plants planted in factories with local plants, as they bear more environmental conditions, and protect the ecosystem, as well as the allocation of 7 to 10% of the general area of ​​the plant as green areas to combat pollution and reduce the spread the dust. Al Ghais pointed out that EPDA has obliged cement factories to link the volume of filters to the amount of cement produced, because the sizes of some filters are not commensurate with the amount of cement, and therefore does not adequately purify the air. It is noteworthy that EPDA obliged cement and asphalt factories to move from residential areas to industrial zones, in order to prevent environmental pollution.An asphalt plant was moved from Al Qusaidat area to Saih Al Labana area. And a cement factory was moved from Al Ghab area to Athan region south of the emirate, which contributed to reducing air pollution in the Emirate. - [A conference on "Global Warming" in Ras Al Khaimah next month](https://epda.rak.ae/a-conference-on-global-warming-in-ras-al-khaimah-next-month/): Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, has announced the launch of the Fourth World Conference in Ras Al Khaimah, Global Warming and Ecosystem Productivity, on 3th April for 3 days at Al Hamra Conference Hall, in Al Jazeera Al Hamra. This came during a press conference held yesterday morning, at the main buliding of EPDA,Al Ghais explained that the World Conference comes periodically every two years, to discuss the most important environmental developments at the global level, and the most important variables that can be developed recommendations and effective solutions, in order to support human life and sustainability.Thirty scientific papers from several different countries will be discussed during the conference, which will shed light on the effects of climate change on the environment, and discuss research that is interested in this area, to develop effective solutions to protect the global ecosystem in the future.Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment of the United Arab Emirates,and the speakers are experts in the fields of environment, climate, marine and wildlife and space science. - [Inspection campaigns on fish markets in Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain](https://epda.rak.ae/inspection-campaigns-on-fish-markets-in-ras-al-khaimah-and-umm-al-quwain/): The Executive Director of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, Dr. Saif Al Ghais, said yesterday that the Authority started conducting inspection campaigns on fishing ports, landing areas of fishing boats and fish markets in the emirate to ensure that fishermen abide by the ban on Safi and Sheri fishing. Based on the decision of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Campaigns will continue until the end of April. - [Farm caught illegally selling groundwater in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/farm-caught-illegally-selling-groundwater-in-ras-al-khaimah/): The CEO of the Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) of Ras Al Khaimah, Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais stated that the authority caught a farm south of the emirate illegally trading in groundwater.The authority has lately released a circular preventing the selling of groundwater to factories and commercial establishments, and to commit to using it solely in the irrigation of agricultural crops.Dr. Al Ghais further explained that the authority spotted out tankers leaving the farm carrying thousands of gallons of groundwater, and further investigations in the case showed that the farm belongs to a citizen who is renting it to a person of an Asian nationality for the aim of selling groundwater to industrial, commercial and constructional establishments in different areas across the emirate.He added that the farm owner was penalized, and pledged not to repeat the offense and the depletion of groundwater illegally, stressing that the authority also spotted a number of other farms selling groundwater in exchange for little money.Dr. Al Ghais also pointed out that the authority at the moment focuses on large farms that pull water from the main wells and sell thousands of gallons of groundwater, as a prelude to seize their owners red-handed.He also added that the authority rejected licensing a desalination plant in the creek of Al Qusaidat area near (Rak Mall), to protect the nature reserve of the creek from pollution, stopping the desalination plant from possibility dumping waste in the creek, which will increase the salinity level killing the fish and exposing the marine environment to risk.He also explained that the authority had set conditions to permit the establishing of the plant, which include extending pipes to drain the non-distilled water outside the creek area.Al Ghais also stated that the authority is launching the 3rd International Conference on Global Warming under the title (Food Security) on the 5th of May, to discuss the environmental effects on fish stocks, local and global food security, organic products, and contamination of soil and water as a result of global warming.He also mentioned that some cement factories in the emirate were able to successfully reduce their energy use by 70% through the use of a gallon of petroleum products instead of a barrel in powering their factories. - [RAK EPDA organizes an international conference on global warming](https://epda.rak.ae/rak-epda-organizes-an-international-conference-on-global-warming/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) in Ras Al Khaimah revealed that it is preparing to organize the International Conference on Global Warming and its impact on food security which will be held during the period from 5th to 7th May, with the participation of international scientists and a group of academic speakers from the US space agency «NASA» and FAO and UAE University.Dr. Saif Al Ghais, CEO of EPDA-RAK, explained during the press conference to announce the global warming conference, that it will discuss global warming and its most important characteristics and impacts on food security, through four main themes and 24 specialized scientific research papers, showcasing 8 papers per day.Al Ghais also commented on the fisheries and the elimination of coral reefs and their impact on fish and other marine animals, and methods of sustainable agricultural production, local and global food security, organic products, food contamination, and diseases affecting agricultural soil, plants and animals.He pointed out that the authority sent instructions to establishments operating in the emirate which uses groundwater to amend their work conditions according to the laws in force in the state, and during the last period, 4 factories and a farm were shut down for using groundwater in unauthorized activities.He also stressed that the cement factories in the emirate committed to adopting initiatives and projects that serve the environment by reducing energy consumption ratio by 70% through the reuse of released gases in manufacturing processes. - [Campaigns to protect ghaf, samar, sidr trees and the vegetation cover in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/campaigns-to-protect-ghaf-samar-sidr-trees-and-the-vegetation-cover-in-ras-al-khaimah/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) in Ras Al Khaimah launched intensive inspection campaigns over the past few days against the (Unjust Logging) phenomenon which targets the local trees in UAE's environment, including ghaf, samar, sidr trees in all regions of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, in light of the spread of the phenomenon of abusing these trees which have a high environmental and natural value, damaging them through uprooting and cutting of branches and selling the timbers in the market during the last period.Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, CEO of EPDA-RAK, stressed on the need to intensify inspection campaigns on illegal and offender "loggers", which will continue during the next phase, and aim to reduce the unjust logging, to preserve forest vegetation in the emirate, and protect the environment and natural biodiversity through the protection of local trees.Dr. Al Ghais also clarified that unjust logging is a violation of federal law No. 24 of 1999, concerning the protection and development of the environment, which bans cutting, uprooting and damaging any tree or shrub or branch, in order to protect vegetation and preserve the environment, stressing that the phenomenon of unjust logging constitute a dangerous phenomenon on the environment and nature as it targets local trees like ghaf, samar, sidr trees, especially that the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God have mercy on him, stressed on their importance and the need to protect them for various natural and environmental factors in addition to their importance in UAE’s history and national heritage. - [EPDA visits crushers and cement factories to ensure the application of new standards](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-visits-crushers-and-cement-factories-to-ensure-the-application-of-new-standards/): Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, CEO of Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) in Ras Al Khaimah stated that the authority will begin starting tomorrow the implementation of field visits to the crushers, quarries, cement and ceramic tiles and marble factories to make sure they apply the new environmental standards adopted by the Ministry of Environment and Water, which are related to the rehabilitation of the sites of crushers and quarries and factories.The new standards include the installation of devices to collect dust in the equipment, and the use of filters and water to reduce environment pollution, and covering crushers sites to prevent the spread of dust in the air.Al Ghais stressed that the field visits aim to inspect 17 facilities, to monitor the extent of their commitment to the rehabilitation of the sites of crushers and quarries which use the blasting and drilling methods, explaining that the authority will monitor the air resulting from the work of the quarries in the emirate by linking air monitoring devices in quarries, and marble, ceramic and cement factories to the control room of EPDA’s building.He continued that the authority prevents factories from the use of mobile crushers, because they expose mountainous areas to damage, and that crushers are required to use onsite tankers to reduce the spread of dust. - [Facility shut down and another rewarded in a surprise visit by EPDA’s CEO to Al Ghail Industrial Area](https://epda.rak.ae/facility-shut-down-and-another-rewarded-in-a-surprise-visit-by-epdas-ceo-to-al-ghail-industrial-area/): Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, CEO of Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) in Ras Al Khaimah conducted a surprise inspection visit to a number of industrial and professional establishments in Al Kharran and Al Digdaga areas and Al Ghail Industrial Area during the New Year's holiday to check the accuracy of the application of environmental requirements in line with the orientations of Ras Al Khaimah government and federal and local environmental laws concerning the protection of the environment from any activities with adverse effects, and the sustainability of its resources.Following the visit, Dr. Al Ghais stated that the inspection visit which was conducted on a holiday reflects the environmental work initiative that involves directors and supervisors alike, and was not expected at all, whether on the part of the industrial and professional establishments operating in the emirate, or on the part of EPDA officers and supervisors. Al Ghais continued that this initiative resulted in the detection of environmental violations at one of the industrial plants in Al Ghail area in the form of residues resulting from the manufacturing process which contaminated the soil due to the lack of a processing system to dispose of these pollutants in the plant in a way that conform with environmental requirements, given that the industrial plant in question has already been warned several times before.On the other hand, Dr. Al Ghais decided to reward another industrial plant operating in the same activity in Al Ghail area for its commitment to environmental standards and the requirements of manufacturing processes. The CEO of EPDA also pointed out that this initiative that he launched is a complement to the initiative of best environmental practices that was launched by the authority four years ago to promote environmental awareness among institutions of various kinds and different segments of society, and through the application of this initiative the authority had received several awards, including: The Social Responsibility Award from the Arab Organization for Social Responsibility in 2013, the best execution of green applications award on the emirate level from RAK police general headquarters during 2014, as well as their participation in the ninth forum of best excellence by innovation practices organized by Sheikh Saqr Program for Government Excellence during the year 2014. - [International Conference on Global Warming](https://epda.rak.ae/international-conference-on-global-warming/): International Conference on Global Warming - [Desert Life](https://epda.rak.ae/desert-life/): Album Name: Desert Life - [Presentation for the Environmental Protection Agency](https://epda.rak.ae/presentation-for-the-environmental-protection-agency/): Album Name: Presentation for… - [Initiative best environmental practices in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/initiative-best-environmental-practices-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Album Name: Initiative best … - [Global warming and food security conference](https://epda.rak.ae/global-warming-and-food-security-conference/): Album Name: Global warming a… - [Khor Muzahmi](https://epda.rak.ae/khor-muzahmi/): Album Name: Khor Muzahmi - [E-Services in EPDA](https://epda.rak.ae/e-services-in-epda/): Album Name: E-Services in EP.. - [Oloum al Dar Report about report replacing environmental fines with local tree planting](https://epda.rak.ae/oloum-al-dar-report-about-report-replacing-environmental-fines-with-local-tree-planting/): Album Name: Oloum al Dar Rep… - [WAM: Khor Muzahmi Report](https://epda.rak.ae/wam-khor-muzahmi-report/): Album Name: WAM: Khor Muzahm… - [Oloom Al Dar: EPDA promotes sustainable biodiversity in the Khor Al-Muzahmi reserve](https://epda.rak.ae/oloom-al-dar-epda-promotes-sustainable-biodiversity-in-the-khor-al-muzahmi-reserve/): Album Name: Oloom Al Dar: EP… - [Future Foresight for a Sustainable Environment Lecture by Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of EPDA](https://epda.rak.ae/future-foresight-for-a-sustainable-environment-lecture-by-dr-saif-muhammad-al-ghais-director-general-of-epda/): Album Name: Future Foresight… - [Oloom Al Dar 14.08.2020 Scientific studies of the Environment Agency reveal the high nutritional value of Ghaf leaves](https://epda.rak.ae/oloom-al-dar-14-08-2020-scientific-studies-of-the-environment-agency-reveal-the-high-nutritional-value-of-ghaf-leaves/): Album Name: Oloom Al Dar 14… - [Summary of the achievements of the EPDA 2019](https://epda.rak.ae/summary-of-the-achievements-of-the-epda-2019/): Album Name: Summary of the a... - [Panel discussion: Biodiversity is everyone's responsibility on World Whale Shark Day 08/30/2020](https://epda.rak.ae/panel-discussion-biodiversity-is-everyones-responsibility-on-world-whale-shark-day-08-30-2020/): Album Name: Panel discussion... - [Radio program: Economic in a week](https://epda.rak.ae/radio-program-economic-in-a-week/): Album Name: Radio program: E… - [Live broadcast of Ras Al Khaimah Radio hosted by the Environment Protection and Development Authority 10/15/2020](https://epda.rak.ae/album-name-live-broadcast-o/): Album Name: Live broadcast o… - [One Million and One Trees Initiative](https://epda.rak.ae/one-million-and-one-trees-initiative/): https://www.albayan.ae/across-the-uae/news-and-reports/2017-10-26-1.3079727 - [Artificial Reef Project](https://epda.rak.ae/artificial-reef-project/): /?page_id=35 - [“AL-HASBAH” Initiative for Fishermen Happiness](https://epda.rak.ae/al-hasbah-initiative-for-fishermen-happiness/): https://www.albayan.ae/across-the-uae/news-and-reports/2018-10-31-1.3397275 - [Environmental Carnival](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-carnival/): https://www.albayan.ae/across-the-uae/news-and-reports/2018-01-17-1.3161612 - [Replacement of Environmental Fines with Local Trees Plantation](https://epda.rak.ae/replacement-of-environmental-fines-with-local-trees-plantation/): https://youtu.be/FbBaC1a_xZo - [Environmental Sustainability Award](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-sustainability-award/): /wp-content/uploads/Environmental-Sustainability-Award-جائزة-الإستدامة-البيئية.pdf - [Feminine Monitoring for Sustainable Environment](https://epda.rak.ae/feminine-monitoring-for-sustainable-environment/): https://www.albayan.ae/across-the-uae/news-and-reports/2018-10-11-1.3379744 - [Student Environment Protection Teams Award](https://epda.rak.ae/student-environment-protection-teams-award/): https://wam.ae/ar/details/1395302799090 - [](https://epda.rak.ae/2167-2/): Description of the initiative: This award aims to promote environmental awareness among school students and spread the culture of conservation in schools and homes. EPDA has implemented several programs for this project. It launched the Environmental Researcher Workshop by inviting students to Khor Muzahmi Protected Area, students learnt how to use the microscope and how […] - [Issuing environmental permits for industrial and vocational establishments](https://epda.rak.ae/issuing-environmental-permits-for-industrial-and-vocational-establishments/): Fees: Group I from AED 5000 - 150000 Group II from AED 5000 - ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Registration of Consulting Companies](https://epda.rak.ae/registration-of-consulting-companies/): Fees: Registration fees: Only RAK licensed companies - AED ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Dept. of Eco ... Group: Environmental impact assessment studies review and evaluatio ... - [Evaluating Environmental Impact Studies](https://epda.rak.ae/evaluating-environmental-impact-studies/): Fees: Environmental impact assessment studies and reports assessme ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Dept. of Eco ... Group: Environmental impact assessment studies review and evaluatio ... - [Checking Air quality](https://epda.rak.ae/checking-air-quality/): Fees: No fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm 07 ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Environmental Complaints](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-complaints/): Fees: No fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Checking the quality of water reservoirs](https://epda.rak.ae/checking-the-quality-of-water-reservoirs/): Fees: No fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Policies and Studies Section - [Provide local trees seedlings](https://epda.rak.ae/provide-local-trees-seedlings/): Fees: No Fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Dept. of Eco ... Group: Policies and Studies Section - [Analyzing soil quality](https://epda.rak.ae/analyzing-soil-quality/): Fees: No Fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Dept. of Eco ... Group: Policies and Studies Section - [Environmental Event](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-event/): Fees: No fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. Dept. of Eco ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [Providing local trees with low water usage (Sidr / Samar / Ghaf)](https://epda.rak.ae/providing-local-trees-with-low-water-usage-sidr-samar-ghaf/): Fees: No Fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm 07-23 ... Group: Environmental impact assessment studies review and evaluatio ... - [Canceling environmental permits for professional and craft establishments](https://epda.rak.ae/canceling-environmental-permits-for-professional-and-craft-establishments/): Fees: Only financial obligations on the permit to be canceled Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. info ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Modifying the environmental permits for professional and craft establishments](https://epda.rak.ae/modifying-the-environmental-permits-for-professional-and-craft-establishments/): Fees: Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. i ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Renewing environmental permits for professional establishments](https://epda.rak.ae/renewing-environmental-permits-for-professional-establishments/): Fees: Depending on the change in the type of professional or craft ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Issuing environmental permits for professional establishments](https://epda.rak.ae/issuing-environmental-permits-for-professional-establishments/): Fees: Depending on the type of professional or craft activity and ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Cancellation of environmental permits for industrial facilities](https://epda.rak.ae/cancellation-of-environmental-permits-for-industrial-facilities/): Fees: Only the financial obligations on the permit to be canceled Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Modifying the environmental permits for industrial facilities](https://epda.rak.ae/modifying-the-environmental-permits-for-industrial-facilities/): Fees: Fees are calculated according to the details included in the ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Renewing environmental permits for industrial facilities](https://epda.rak.ae/renewing-environmental-permits-for-industrial-facilities/): Fees: Fees are calculated according to the details included in the ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Issuing professional fishing licenses](https://epda.rak.ae/issuing-professional-fishing-licenses/): Fees: No service fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [Issuing picnic fishing licenses](https://epda.rak.ae/issuing-picnic-fishing-licenses/): Fees: Fees are calculated according to the details included in the ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [Issuing fishing with line licenses](https://epda.rak.ae/issuing-fishing-with-line-licenses/): Fees: Fees are calculated according to the details included in the ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [Renewal of professional fishing licenses](https://epda.rak.ae/renewal-of-professional-fishing-licenses/): Fees: Fees are calculated according to the details included in the ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Renewal of picnic fishing licenses](https://epda.rak.ae/renewal-of-picnic-fishing-licenses/): Fees: Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [Renewing fishing with line licenses](https://epda.rak.ae/renewing-fishing-with-line-licenses/): Fees: Fees are calculated according to the details included in th ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [No objection certificate for the transmission of oils](https://epda.rak.ae/no-objection-certificate-for-the-transmission-of-oils/): Fees: AED 500 Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [No objection certificates for importing chemicals](https://epda.rak.ae/no-objection-certificates-for-importing-chemicals/): Fees: AED 200 Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [No objection certificates for the export of chemicals](https://epda.rak.ae/no-objection-certificates-for-the-export-of-chemicals/): Fees: AED 500 Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Environmental awareness through events, conferences, lectures, community initiatives and awards](https://epda.rak.ae/environmental-awareness-through-events-conferences-lectures-community-initiatives-and-awards/): Fees: No Fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [Developing environmental awareness on local and international environmental occasions](https://epda.rak.ae/developing-environmental-awareness-on-local-and-international-environmental-occasions/): Fees: No Fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [No objection certificates for tanks](https://epda.rak.ae/no-objection-certificates-for-tanks/): Fees: No Fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Department of Environmental Control - [Housing workers](https://epda.rak.ae/housing-workers/): Fees: AED 1800 per annum Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [Distribution of berths for professional fishers](https://epda.rak.ae/distribution-of-berths-for-professional-fishers/): Fees: Fees are calculated according to the details included in the ... Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm. inf ... Group: Community Relations Unit - [](https://epda.rak.ae/2123-2/): Providing local trees with low water usage (Sidr / Samar / G ... Fees: No Fees Contact Info: Main office in EPDA building 7:30 am - 2:30 pm 07-23 ... Group: Environmental impact assessment studies review and evaluatio ... More Info - [Gulf Wildlife Day](https://epda.rak.ae/gulf-wildlife-day/) - [World Fisheries Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-fisheries-day/) - [MoU between the Environmental Protection Agency and Al Yousef Motors Company](https://epda.rak.ae/mou-between-the-environmental-protection-agency-and-al-yousef-motors-company/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah signed a memorandum of understanding with Al Yousef Motors Company aimed at enhancing joint cooperation between the two sides and organizing the process of exchanging information between them. The memorandum was signed by the Director-General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority, Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, representing the first party, and for the second party, it was signed by Mr. Basil Al-Ajji, director of Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah region. Where Dr. Saif Al Ghais stressed that the memorandum of understanding will help build distinguished cooperation relations and will support the strengthening of cooperation between the two parties and for the purpose of supporting and delighting the practitioners of the marine fishing profession in the Emirate. This policy falls under the direction of the company's management to support partners and improve services for the common benefit. Al Ghais continued, "The memorandum of understanding comes to organize the process of exchanging information for its service to the authority's artisanal fishermen's customers, as Al Yousef Motors Company will provide technical advice and support fishermen in the emirate to use and maintain engines, in line with the authority's direction to preserve the environment in all ports of the emirate, Where the two parties carry out annual field campaigns to inspect the engines and offer them special discounts, and the authority, on its part, will invite the fishermen and notify them of any activities or activities carried out by the company of benefit to them in cooperation with the fishermen’s associations in the emirate.” - [Director of the EPDA to Al-Ittihad: It is forbidden to spray pesticides on farms until mid-November](https://epda.rak.ae/director-of-the-epda-to-al-ittihad-it-is-forbidden-to-spray-pesticides-on-farms-until-mid-november/): Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director-General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, confirmed that the Authority is working on continuous environmental control directed at all farms located and operating in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, with the aim of verifying their application of the requirements related to preserving food safety and protecting biodiversity. He stated that the authority had set mid-September to mid-November as a date to permanently ban the use of pesticides and agricultural pesticides on farms, with the aim of preserving humans and sustaining agricultural production that benefits farmers. Dr. Saif Al-Ghais told Al-Ittihad: “Honey bees and some of the various insects play an active and important role in achieving food security for the production of crops for the agricultural sector in the country, and in order to preserve these products and crops from diseases and insect pests, the use of pesticides may cause the presence of Poisoning, which poses a threat to human health and beneficial insects. He stated that there are many highly toxic agricultural pesticides that affect humans and honey bees, and negatively affect their colonies if prohibited pesticides are used or excessively used, as well as affect other beneficial insects, as bees are attracted to blooming flowers of all kinds and transport Pollen, and in order to preserve these creatures, spraying of pesticides must be completely avoided during the specified period from mid-September to mid-November. He pointed out that in the necessary cases in which farms may tend to spray pesticides, their owners must notify the authority by communicating with it at least 72 hours in advance in order to obtain a temporary permit authorized to use pesticides in accordance with the specific instructions and under the supervision of the authority as well. Al-Ghais advised owners and farm workers to avoid the use of insecticides and fungicides during flowering, as they may harm bees and insects if they eat the nectar from the flower, with a commitment to applying the circular issued that protects these farms from obtaining environmental violations that direct different penalties depending on the size of the violation committed . He pointed out that the authority recently issued a circular that includes inspectors to collect samples from farms operating in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, on a regular basis, to reduce pesticide residues in agricultural products, which includes the necessity of farmers' commitment to ban the circulation and use of useful pesticides by unlicensed companies for what It is extremely dangerous, and it is forbidden to spray agricultural crops during the day during the period specified for the ban and to allow the authority's employees to obtain the required samples. He stated that the authority's employees began the tasks of distributing the circular regarding this decision at the entrances to farms throughout the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, to urge farmers and farm owners to abide by the requirements of the issued circular and contribute to the preservation of biological diversity, the promotion of biological control, and the preservation of agricultural crops and beneficial creatures. - [world food day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-food-day/) - [Arab Environment Day](https://epda.rak.ae/arab-environment-day/) - [EPDA announces the winners of the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award in its 5th session](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-announces-the-winners-of-the-student-environmental-protection-teams-award-in-its-5th-session/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah celebrated the winners of the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award in its fifth session for the year 2021-2022, in the presence of a representative of the Ministry of Education, Her Excellency Dr. Amna Al Dahak Al Shamsi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Care and Capacity Building Sector, a number of directors of local authorities in the emirate and the authority’s partners. The authority launched the award in 2017 in partnership with the Ministry of Education, in order to enhance the vision of the UAE National Agenda 2021 in achieving sustainable development, and it is one of the initiatives presented by the authority. The award achieves the development vision of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah 2030 and its strategic directions, and the protection of the environment and the sustainability of natural resources receive all support from His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, under the supervision and follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah and Chairman of the Executive Council. Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority, said that the schools participating in the fifth cycle of the award amounted to 23 schools from inside and outside the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, and the number of students participating in the student environmental protection teams so far has reached more than 2,500 students. The award: Planting more than 8,600 local trees through school teams. The award won first place in the category of distinguished government project in partnership with the Ministry of Education within the former Government Excellence Award categories. He added that the goal of the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award is to prepare a generation that contributes to protecting the environment and maintaining its sustainability and enhancing the innovative tendency of student environment teams in solving environmental problems and cooperating with schools in highlighting special contributions to preserving the environment and striving for excellence and innovation. A new approach to environmental awareness through the educational approach that depends on the transfer of environmental awareness to schools and from there to various segments of the local community by encouraging them to raise the level of environmental awareness by the authority and forming awareness monitoring teams in each school in order to enhance the concept of environmental protection and the sustainability of its resources. Al Munai School of Secondary Education for Girls from the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah won the first place, followed by Al Hudaiba School for Secondary Education in Ras Al Khaimah in the second place, then in the third place the Village School of the first cycle of the Emirate of Fujairah. Based on the award criteria, it was the best in applying the results and impact criterion, and Al Hudayba School won the best school in applying the environmental awareness and education criterion. The High School of Applied Technology in Ras Al Khaimah won the best school in applying the criterion of enhancing the green area. As for the criterion of energy consumption, the village school got the best school for implementing this criterion, and Abdullah Al Salem School, the second cycle of the Emirate of Sharjah, got the best school in applying the criterion of creativity and innovation. The Spirit of the Union School, cycle two and three in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, won the best school in applying the criterion of continuous learning and development, and finally, the Quality School, cycle three for boys in Ras Al Khaimah, got the best school in applying the criterion of media coverage. Al-Ghais stressed that the evaluation process for the participating schools was based on many evaluation criteria, such as the extent of planning and implementation, clarity of the mechanism, objectives and operations of the programs carried out by the team, initiatives and environmental activities. During the number and quality of environmental initiatives, campaigns and activities that have been implemented, the number of internal environmental competitions and the number of environmental events that have been celebrated. The criterion for enhancing the green area comes to measure the area of ​​the green area in the school and the number of local trees such as Ghaf, Sidr, Samar and others planted inside and outside the school and to ensure their care and care. Environmental innovation is the creativity, realism and scalability of innovative ideas, projects and applications in the field of environmental work. And because the process of continuous learning and development is important in the evaluation process, the preparation and qualification of the team, the stakeholders and those in charge of it, the number of scientific and practical workshops and the standard comparisons carried out by the team were taken into consideration. Therefore, the distinguished schools are honored in the application of each of the standards. With regard to individual participation, the authority received more than 60 individual participation in its four categories, the first of which is the creation of an environmental cartoon character that promotes the environment and sustainable development, and the student Marwa Rashid from Al-Munai School won first place in the short story category, which represents writing a short story whose events are derived from reality in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah The different age levels were also taken into account to evaluate the participants in this category, which was won by the student Maryam Ahmed Saif from Al-Munai School. The fourth category is to participate in a short environmental awareness film about healthy food or agriculture, and it was for the student Maryam Younis Abdul Rahman Al-Feel from the Secondary School of Applied Technology in the Emirate of Ajman. - [International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer](https://epda.rak.ae/international-day-for-the-preservation-of-the-ozone-layer/) - [International Day of Clean Air for blue skies](https://epda.rak.ae/international-day-of-clean-air-for-blue-skies/) - [International Whale Shark Day](https://epda.rak.ae/international-whale-shark-day/) - [EPDA organizes a workshop to reach carbon neutrality](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-organizes-a-workshop-to-reach-carbon-neutrality/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah held a workshop entitled "Path to Succeeding in a Carbon-Neutral World", which falls within the Best Environmental Practices Program. The workshop targeted a number of local government agencies in the emirate and a number of leading industrial facilities with the most environmental impact. The workshop aimed to encourage establishments to start developing solutions and alternatives to reach carbon neutrality in their practical fields in order to achieve the strategic directions of the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of the EPDA, said: "The current trend of the UAE is to commit to reducing its carbon emissions to be a role model for managing energy and the environment in the world, this workshop also emphasizes UAE's efforts within the strategic initiative to achieve UAE Net Zero 2050” Within the workshop, global warming and greenhouse gases were introduced and ways to reduce their emissions and maintain them within levels that do not affect the existence of life, and the best alternative and renewable sources of energy, which will be as efficient - or better - than the usual traditional sources of energy. The approach and efforts of the UAE towards carbon neutrality in the sectors of industry, transportation, waste management, and others were also reviewed. To conclude the workshop, the participants were divided into working groups according to their sector to exchange experiences and review environmental procedures and practices in their fields that achieve carbon neutrality for the transfer of experience and knowledge, as their recommendations were shared among industrial and other sectors and EPDA. - [EPDA Moves to Cloud Computing](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-moves-to-cloud-computing/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has launched its transition to the cloud computing system as the first local authority in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. This step confirms the authority's readiness for the digital transformation process to enhance and develop its digital services and operations, achieve integration and integration with future technologies, and keep pace with the national strategy of the UAE digital government 2025.This step also represents a crossing point towards the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the era of data and highly advanced technologies supported by artificial intelligence.His Excellency Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of the Authority said, "The transition of the Authority as the first government entity in the emirate to a cloud computing system reflects the support of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and the diligent follow-up by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince The era of Ras Al Khaimah, Chairman of the Executive Council, where the transition to cloud computing will help in the presence of advanced, efficient, flexible and high-capacity services, and will accelerate the transformation of all government agencies to a complete digital transformation.”Al-Ghais added, "This step is in line with the UAE's directions to achieve the highest quality of government services, achieve happiness for customers, simplify and speed up services, maintain databases, enhance information security and flexibility, reduce costs and speed up work, noting that cloud services technology allows saving files, data and various information through linked servers. The Internet and access to it in a safe and reliable manner, as linking and securing integration between all government agencies will provide continuous communication in an effective and secure manner between them and will enhance the integration of services.” - [International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem](https://epda.rak.ae/international-day-for-the-conservation-of-the-mangrove-ecosystem/) - [MoU between “Museums” and “Environment of Ras Al Khaimah”](https://epda.rak.ae/mou-between-museums-and-environment-of-ras-al-khaimah/): The Department of Antiquities and Museums in Ras Al Khaimah has concluded a partnership and cooperation agreement with the Environmental Protection and Development Authority. The agreement included a number of items that serve the cultural and environmental sectors, which will contribute to advancing the strategic goals of both sides in particular and the goals and vision of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in general. Ahmed Obaid Al Tunaiji, Director-General of the Department of Antiquities and Museums in Ras Al Khaimah, said: “We are pleased with the joint cooperation between the Department and the Environment Protection and Development Authority, as this cooperation will result in enrichment in many areas, the most prominent of which is the joint cooperation in the afforestation of archaeological sites and reserves with trees and plants that are commensurate with the nature of Archaeological buildings do not affect their structures or structures in any way, and preserve our archaeological reserves from any environmental factors that may threaten their sustainability, which will contribute to creating a healthy environment for our archaeological sites.” For his part, Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority, stressed that “the agreement serves the strategic objectives of the government of Ras Al Khaimah; It supports the wise vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Federal Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and with the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate, where this memorandum confirms the support and support of the two parties to each other in Activities, initiatives and events in the environmental and heritage fields, achieving mutual benefit and protecting environmentally sensitive areas.” - [World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought](https://epda.rak.ae/world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought/) - [MoU between the EPDA and RAK Ports](https://epda.rak.ae/mou-between-the-epda-and-rak-ports/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has signed a memorandum of understanding with Ras Al Khaimah Ports aimed at enhancing joint cooperation between the two sides The memorandum was signed by the Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority, Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, representing the first party, and for the second party, it was signed by Mr. Roger Claskin, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Ports Dr. Saif Al Ghais confirmed that the memorandum of understanding regulates the process of providing the Authority to Ras Al Khaimah Ports with data from the floating monitoring stations in the waters of the emirate, which use monitoring technology in order to measure the physical and chemical properties of sea water and the changes that occur to it, and to enable the authority and the competent authorities to develop expected scenarios for the situation The marine environment, taking the necessary corrective or preventive decisions, and raising the level of quality control operations over activities and phenomena affecting the environment. Where the two parties agreed to coordinate and cooperate with regard to conducting joint exercises such as protecting the environment from oil pollution and exchanging data. - [world sea turtle day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-sea-turtle-day/) - [EPDA organizes a workshop on best environmental practices for handling and storing chemicals](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-organizes-a-workshop-on-best-environmental-practices-for-handling-and-storing-chemicals/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah held the second virtual workshop for this year on the best environmental practices in the issue of handling and storing chemicals, where an invitation was sent to the competent authorities in the emirate and the industrial and professional facilities used for these materials. The workshop aims to present and transfer experiences and best international practices. And benefit from the experiences of leading companies in dealing with chemicals. Dr. Saif Mohammed Al Ghais, Director General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority, said: "The UAE places health, safety and environmental standards at the top of its concerns, and this comes with taking into account the interests of the sectors concerned with dealing with chemicals and hazardous materials." Al-Ghais continued: "The workshop focused on storage methods and the best mechanisms and practices in dealing with hazardous materials, chemicals, and emissions. The mechanisms for self-reporting of facilities and the mutual benefits of this methodology were also discussed, provided that the protection of public health and environmental systems is taken into account with the cooperation of all." A number of parties participated in the workshop, and the procedures and practices followed in their bodies were presented to transfer experience and knowledge to the industrial establishments present in the workshop. - [World Oceans Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-oceans-day/) - [World Food Safety](https://epda.rak.ae/world-food-safety/) - [World Environment Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-environment-day/) - [EPDA holds discussions with partners on implementation of the Ras Al Khaimah Plastic Free Initiative](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-holds-discussions-with-partners-on-implementation-of-the-ras-al-khaimah-plastic-free-initiative/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority called on its local partners supporting the implementation of the Ras Al Khaimah Plastic Free Initiative, represented by the Ras Al Khaimah Municipality Department, the Department of Economic Development, the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zones Authority (Rakez), and the Tourism Development Authority to discuss the mechanism for implementing and implementing the initiative. The authority works in accordance with the directions of the United Arab Emirates and its efforts to address the phenomenon of excessive consumption of plastic bags in the daily lives of members of society, and to reduce the effects of their use on the environment and living organisms. This initiative comes to support the goals and vision of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah under the rational guidance of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the Union and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, and with the close follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah, Chairman of the Executive Council. The Director-General of the Environmental Protection and Development Authority, Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, also presented the mechanism and stages of application, as the attendees agreed on the duration of the first stage, which is the period of imposing fees for single-use plastic bags and educating consumers about the need to reduce and stop using plastic bags, and after 6 months the total ban on their use will be implemented. And start violating the facilities provided by the dealers. During the meeting, the pricing of plastic bags in the targeted sectors was discussed during the first phase of implementing the initiative, and all views of support and opposition from the attendees representing their sides were heard. As the authority carried out, during the study stages of the implementation plan of the initiative in 2019, a survey targeting the owners of the supermarket and bakery sectors, which showed the support of 77.28% of the total of 261 supermarkets and bakeries for the initiative, which aims to replace non-biodegradable plastic bags with environmentally friendly alternatives. The number of bags reached Approximately 28 million plastic bags were used in these two activities in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah only during that period. Al-Ghais stressed, "Preserving the environment and the sustainability of its resources has been a strategic priority for the UAE since its establishment. Thanks to the vision and directives of its wise leadership, the state has presented a pioneering model in efforts to protect the environment, preserve its natural resources and ensure the sustainability of its biodiversity. Today, our meeting with these local authorities comes to distribute roles Working as one to rid the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, its ecosystems and biodiversity, from the danger of single-use plastic bags Al Ghais added, "The individual may not feel the danger of these bags and the effects they can cause on public health, and the deterioration of the marine and terrestrial environment, and by reducing and preventing these bags, a great burden and danger to the lives of living creatures, including humans, will be removed. This will also contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and the state. In general, such initiatives and trends in the UAE and we affirm our continued commitment to support the efforts of the international community aimed at reducing the repercussions of climate change and the challenges it causes, as the country hosts the Conference of Parties “COP28” in 2023.” - [International Biodiversity Day](https://epda.rak.ae/international-biodiversity-day/) - [World Bee Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-bee-day/) - [اليوم العالمي للطيور المهاجرة](https://epda.rak.ae/%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%8a%d9%88%d9%85-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b9%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d9%8a-%d9%84%d9%84%d8%b7%d9%8a%d9%88%d8%b1-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d9%87%d8%a7%d8%ac%d8%b1%d8%a9/): Twice a year, the first falls on the second Saturday of May, while the second falls on the second Saturday of October - [Earth Day](https://epda.rak.ae/earth-day/) - [Earth Hour](https://epda.rak.ae/earth-hour/) - [World Water Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-water-day-2/) - [World Wildlife Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-wildlife-day/) - [National Environment Day](https://epda.rak.ae/national-environment-day/) - [World Wetlands Day](https://epda.rak.ae/world-wetlands-day/) - [Numbering 50,000 Ghaf trees for the National Day](https://epda.rak.ae/numbering-50000-ghaf-trees-for-the-national-day/): Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director-General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, revealed that the authority launched an initiative to number 50,000 “ghaf” trees to complete the planting of Zayed in the various regions and locations of the emirate. Al-Ghais stated that the initiative comes in conjunction with the country's celebrations of its fiftieth National Day on the second of next December, by inviting the people of the country to participate in the activities of this environmental initiative. In his interview with Al-Ittihad, he said: "The authority always seeks to achieve diversity in natural resources by preserving and increasing the green area in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, especially those concerned with local trees, including the Ghaf tree, which contains many important environmental benefits." He stated that the authority, as part of its celebration of the 50th National Day of the UAE, decided to complete the initiative to number the "Ghaf" trees in various regions and locations of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, which it started a year ago. He added: "The initiative has been able to number about 6,600 trees so far, which started in Al Kharran, one of the regions of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, which witnesses the abundance of this type of trees, and the goal of completing the initiative is to reach the numbering of 50,000 of those trees during the fiftieth year of the UAE." ». He stated that the initiative will work to proceed with the numbering of trees according to the plans previously laid out on the Ras Al Khaimah map, which divides the areas into different lines through which it is possible to infer the sites through which the volunteer work teams will pass to begin the process of monitoring all trees according to the approved drawing. He pointed out that the initiative launched by the authority yesterday by publishing the initiative’s poster on its various channels, will bring the participation of the people of the country who wish to volunteer within the authority’s initiative by working to fill out the participation form that was placed on the authority’s official channels and websites, by mentioning the participant’s name and contact numbers. Then work will be done to re-communicate with them through the Authority's Awareness Department. He pointed out that the Awareness Department will work to familiarize volunteers wishing to participate in the initiative about the work mechanism, which is to identify the areas to be started and then the process of numbering the trees, where participation certificates will be distributed by the authority to those wishing to volunteer after completing an average of 3 credit hours. . He indicated that the authority is seeking, after this initiative, which will come with the participation of volunteers from different members of society, towards completing the process of numbering those trees to reach the desired number, through the efforts of the employees working in the authority, with the aim of numbering these trees, working to protect them from any violations, and working on Make the most of its various environmental benefits. He stated that this initiative will work through the authority, in cooperation with the Ras Al Khaimah Municipality Department, towards placing it on the approved map of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah to determine its location in the emirate, due to its importance and the call for its preservation. Climate change Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais pointed out that the numbering of the “Ghaf” tree is done by locating the trees, then working on installing a metal plate with the number of the tree, which comes at a height of about one and a half meters, and then working on putting the latest update on the map for those observed trees. He stressed that the initiative concerned with protecting and numbering Ghaf trees comes within the framework of reducing the repercussions of climate change, improving the country's climatic environment, raising awareness of the importance of preserving local trees, and adhering to the highest standards of sustainability to build a better future for future generations. - [Ras Al Khaimah restricts the use of “pesticides” on farms](https://epda.rak.ae/ras-al-khaimah-restricts-the-use-of-pesticides-on-farms/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah issued a circular regarding "reducing agricultural pesticide residues", to collect samples from farms on a regular basis, and to confirm the prohibition of the circulation or use of pesticides prohibited in the country, by unlicensed parties for this purpose, and the prohibition of spraying agricultural crops During the daytime during the months of November and December, to avoid causing any damage, and to reduce it. Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director General of the authority, said that a work team affiliated with the authority took the initiative to install a copy of the new circular on farms, in separate areas of the emirate, calling on citizens of farm owners and workers to allow the authority's employees to enter the farms to collect the desired samples. He stressed that the new procedures come in order to ensure the optimal use of pesticides, and to reduce their negative effects, a translation of the UAE National Agenda (2021), under the axis of sustainable environment and integrated infrastructure, stressing the authority's endeavor to establish sustainable management of biodiversity and natural resources, which is one of the goals The strategy of the agency. And the "Environmental Protection and Development in Ras Al Khaimah", through its general manager, warned of the danger of using pesticides that are prohibited to be used on farms in the country. Dr. said. Saif Al-Ghais: Insecticides and agricultural pesticides pose a threat to species, which play a key role in transferring pollen grains between plants and agricultural crops in the region, which is of economic benefit to farmers, noting that “bees” are among the most important organisms exposed to the harmful effects of pesticide use. pests to protect crops, while these “pesticides” cause negative collateral damage to “bee colonies” and human health. - [Director General of EPDA in a meeting with fishermen](https://epda.rak.ae/director-general-of-epda-in-a-meeting-with-fishermen/): His Excellency Dr. Saif Muhammad Al Ghais, Director-General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority, met the fishermen of Ras Al Khaimah in a brotherly meeting held at the Authority’s headquarters, during which he discussed several points revolving around the sustainability and effectiveness of the fishing profession and the happiness of fishermen, as the fishing profession represents the oldest and oldest profession in the United Arab Emirates United. The meeting was attended by a number of fishermen from all fishing ports in Ras Al Khaimah, namely Al Jazira Al Hamra Port, Al Jeer Port, Al Rams Port, Al Mairid Port, Khor Khair Port, Ras Al Khaimah Port, Shaam Port, and Ghalila Port. At the beginning, the meeting aimed to discuss some fishing methods in the emirate, and pointed out the importance of adhering to the laws and regulations in force in the country related to fishing and avoiding wrong practices that may lead to a fisherman's violation, in order to avoid them. Dr. Al-Ghais also discussed with the fishermen some of the problems that might occur between the net fishermen and the gargoy fishermen, and called for avoiding them. Dr. said. Al-Ghais, "Today we discussed several axes with the fishermen. We started by discussing the fishing equipment and methods used in the emirate, especially gargoyle fishing and nets, and the response was positive from the fishermen, as they confirmed that there are no problems between them regarding the method of fishing, but individual actions were taken by some people and we call for avoiding and solving them. Disputes should be referred to the concerned authorities, and the Al-Hasba Customer Happiness Center of the authority is always in service with regard to fishermen’s affairs, as the authority will not tolerate the reduction or cancellation of any violation” Dr. Al-Ghais stated, "The authority places the fishing sector at the center of its concerns due to the importance of this profession in the country, and we are keen on the continuity of the profession of parents and grandparents, while maintaining the sustainability of fish stocks at the same time, where sustainable management of biodiversity and natural resources is one of the most prominent Strategic axes in the work of the Authority " How much did Dr. Al Ghais, the fishermen, to cooperate with the authority’s monitors, emphasizing, “The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah enjoys vast marine areas, and from this point of view, the fishermen must cooperate with the environmental monitors and port employees in the authority by reporting in the event of any doubts, observations or complaints to ensure that the work is carried out in the fullest manner.” br> The dialogue dealt with the issue of expired artisanal fishing licenses and what should be done about them. The opinions received from the fishermen were taken into consideration regarding the notification period for the license holder and the procedure. The fishermen decided to communicate with the license holders and give them a period of 3 months to adjust their status, and in the event of non-renewal, replace them with new licenses. for fishermen. It also talked about the challenges faced by the fisherman during the practice of the profession and their current needs. Dr. Al Ghais referred to the excursion fishermen, as he had received several complaints and observations from the fishermen regarding the excursion fishermen, and reported that some of the excursion fishermen are being helped to sell fish, and that this may harm the marine environment and the artisanal fishermen, and that the authority will work to develop legislation and requirements and regulate the profession of excursion fishing in the emirate Determining the permitted fishing quantities. Dr. Al-Ghais explained, "During the meeting, the artificial countryside or what is called locally Mashad was discussed, as the authority seeks to organize the process of reconstructing the Mashad and establishing and building new Mashad, and that some fishermen have more than one Mashad, and that some fishermen built the Mashad previously and did not rebuild it, Accordingly, the meadow must first be counted, recorded, and its locations determined, which is what the Commission will do after the fishermen have approved the inventory of the meadow. The fishermen expressed their happiness and satisfaction with such meetings, and called on the authority to intensify their efforts and hold such meetings more to raise the fishermen's awareness of the goals and directions of the UAE and the usefulness of the regulatory decisions and regulations that are being legislated and applied, as they ensure the preservation of the sustainability of this vital sector. - [EPDA in field visits to factories](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-in-field-visits-to-factories/): The Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, Dr. Saif Mohammad Al-Ghais conducted field inspection visits to cement factories and crushers in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in the Khor Khuwair area, which aim to monitor environmental conditions and find out the latest developments to support the economic process in the emirate and preserve the environment, he has also verified the readiness of factories to achieve carbon neutrality according to the directions of the United Arab Emirates. Among the visit was Ras Al Khaimah Cement Company, Gulf Cement Company, Ras Al Khaimah Company for the Manufacture of White Cement and Construction Materials, Steven Rock Company, and Union Cement Company. Dr. Saif was also keen to learn about the environmental conditions in the region, and to provide support the facilities in facing environmental obstacles and problems, in order to determine the causes of complaints in the region, and to identify actions taken, and urgent and sustainable solutions. Al-Ghais said, “We always strive to strengthen communication with the industrial sector, to find out about the challenges that face them, to seek assistance in solving them, and to listen to their ideas and proposals to achieve the benefit of everyone, whether from the owners of factories or residents of their neighboring areas.” “The industrial sector in the emirate has achieved an outstanding level, and most factories follow best practices in reducing energy consumption and reducing waste, and also reducing the harmful impact on the environment” Al-Ghais added. “We strive for the factories in the emirate to have high transparency in disclosing emissions and air quality data in the scope and vicinity of the factory.” Al-Ghais added. - [970 artificial caves underwater in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/970-artificial-caves-underwater-in-ras-al-khaimah/): Dr. Saif Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, confirmed that the industrial caves have achieved the purpose and goal of landing them in the region's waters, after increasing their number to 970 artificial caves, and he said: They significantly contributed to stopping the extinction of numbers of fish, and preserved their reproduction. As a result of the growth of algae and coral reefs, which grew in these artificial caves, which in turn enhanced the fish stocks and found shelter and shelter to protect the young fish and for the fishermen to benefit from them. The Director General of the Authority indicated that the caves attract many types of algae and marine life to create an environment for young fish to settle and shelter in, which were landed in November 2016 on seven sites along the coasts of the emirate, explaining that each site contains an average of 100 artificial caves or more. The results are good since the first three months, as marine life began to colonize these figures and take shelter from them, and the number of these species exceeded thirty species, such as grouper, yin, poetic, grouse, net, geyser, and even sharks, in addition to fish that visit the sites of the models in search of food. Al-Ghais indicated that these caves were built according to the directives of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, with the aim of protecting fish wealth and the marine environment and achieving the availability of fish stocks for fishermen, especially since the presence of these caves provides places for the fish to nursery in the reserve. Fish and thus the transfer of stocks, in order to ensure the continuity of fishermen in their profession, stressing that the artificial caves represent the appropriate environment and safe habitats for fish, especially in the breeding seasons, and also contribute to providing an appropriate environment for the revival of marine biodiversity, in addition to increasing the stock of fish wealth, and bringing fishing distances closer to the visitors. The sea, which is directly reflected in the reduction of financial costs, expenses involved in the daily fishing trip, and periodic maintenance of fishermen's boats and engines. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment had issued Ministerial Decree No. 103 of 2017 regarding the organization of establishing or building artificial landscapes, within the framework of the efforts made by the Ministry, in cooperation with the concerned authorities regarding the development of living aquatic resources, and the enhancement of fish stocks with fishing waters in The state, as an important resource and basic pillar of food security, as the new ministerial decision permits the establishment or construction of artificial landscapes for the purposes of scientific research or for the development of certain types of living aquatic wealth, for groups that include government agencies, scientific research bodies and universities, and fishermen registered in the public registry in the ministry, And fishermen's cooperative societies. According to the decision, it is required to obtain a license from the competent authority (environmental bodies and municipalities), as the applicant must provide the competent authority with a map specifying the proposed sites for erecting or building artificial landscapes, and any other documents required by the competent authority, in addition to determining the sites. Designated for establishing or building artificial landscapes on maps, determining their coordinates, and inspecting and examining materials used before landing at sea. FishermenIn turn, Ras Al Khaimah fishermen explained that the presence of artificial caves contributed to raising the level of fish stocks in the emirate, not to mention the multiplicity of species and sizes, noting that the authority did not focus on a specific area in the emirate, but rather enumerated the places and sites for landing these artificial caves. < br> - [Mystery behind Ras Al Khaimah's pink lake solved](https://epda.rak.ae/mystery-behind-ras-al-khaimahs-pink-lake-solved/): Pollution did not cause Saraya Island shoreline pool to turn pink, experts say The mystery had everyone scratching their heads and asking: "Why is the lake pink?" This week, photos emerged on social media of a pink lake in Ras Al Khaimah and quickly caught the attention of residents across the UAE. Now scientists have an answer for the natural oddity. Environmental experts analysed samples from the small pool to find what turned the water pink. Dr Saif Al Ghais, director general of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, told the The National red algae caused the water discolouration. He said the salinity levels were extremely high too, almost four times that of seawater. Drone images of the unusually fluorescent mini lake were first shared on social media by student Ammar Al Farsi. Located just a stone's throw from the shoreline at Al Rams beach on Saraya Islands, the water appeared bright pink against the beige sands. “We took samples from the lake [on Wednesday] and received the results this morning,” Dr Al Ghais said. "The salinity of the water measures 208, while seawater levels usually sit between 38 and 39. "It is very saline water which is why the algae is growing in it and feeding off the nutrients." He said they were still uncertain as to the exact species of algae because there are more than 4,000 in existence. Before the laboratory results were concluded, Dr Al Ghais said the colour change was probably related to red algae, which is a bloom of algae that usually occurs in coastal areas when there is magnesium in the water. In this latest discovery, the salt-heavy waterbed formed as a result of evaporation, which is often recorded in areas of low and high tides, called sabkhas. A term typically used by Earth scientists, a sabkha is a coastal sandflat in which saline minerals accumulate as the result of the arid climate. “In most cases, the bloom stays for only a short period of time until it consumes all the nutrients from the water then starts to die off," Dr Al Ghais said. "When we visited yesterday you could see a change in the water colour, which shows it is already dying off. "This kind of marine growth is typically recorded once a year in areas like Al Rams. "This has not happened as a result of pollution or an oil spill, it is a natural phenomenon." Any time the authority is alerted to something like this, he said, they immediately dispatch a team to the site to test the water and surrounding environment. Such formations have been recorded in the lakes in the Al Muzahmi protected area before. On Wednesday, The National visited the site at Al Rams beach, which was about 20 metres wide and 50 metres long. Local resident Mohammed Ahmed, 21, said since the image of the lake went viral, many people had visited the beach. “This collection of water has been here for a long time but I never thought to take a picture and share it on social media,” he said. “If you get down close to the water you can see a layer of sea salt under the pink-looking water. “I don’t know what caused the colour change, some say algae, some say pollution maybe, but as someone who lives near by it will be good to know the results, because I visit the beach a lot.” - Quoted from The National News - - [EPDA expands the cultivation of mangroves in wetlands](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-expands-the-cultivation-of-mangroves-in-wetlands/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah has attached great importance to mangroves due to the role they play as natural habitats for marine organisms and fish and the nesting areas of local and migratory birds in the lagoons and wetlands. The authority has begun work on a project to establish a nursery for the cultivation of mangroves, in conjunction with the declaration of the Khor Muzahmi Reserve as a nature reserve, as these seedlings are distributed on the various coasts of the emirate as well as increasing the area of ​​vegetation in the reserve. This project is implemented annually during the period between August and September. Which is considered one of the Authority’s most prominent projects in the reserve because mangroves represent a nursery environment for young fish. The mangrove plant covers an estimated proportion of the area of ​​the lagoons in Ras Al Khaimah, especially the Al-Muzahmi Reserve, as the results of these studies confirmed the region’s need to rehabilitate the degraded ecosystems and ensure the restoration of threatened and sensitive species, including the cultivation of the mangrove plant and the restoration of the settlement of the fish eagle as the authority seeks to raise the level of Environmental awareness in the emirate and strengthening its awareness programs with the aim of spreading knowledge among the largest number of community members and promoting its strategic objectives represented by the participation of community sectors in environmental monitoring and awareness. The mangrove plant is one of the shore plants that grows at the border between the sea and the land in hot and tropical regions and is distinguished by its ability to resist difficult environmental conditions that most other plants cannot face. It is a plant that participates in the formation of an integrated ecological and biological system as it provides shelter for migratory birds that feed in the fertile environment. It is rich in types of crusty and shell marine life such as crabs and shellfish species, and small fish shelter between the roots of mangroves. These roots also play an essential role in stabilizing the soil of muddy beaches to protect it from erosion, just as fish prefer to resort to it when laying their eggs. Gray mangroves are one of the types of mangroves, and they are the most important shore plants that grow in abundance on the coasts of the United Arab Emirates and that live on salt water and around the world there are about 80 species of these plants belonging to 18 species and 23 genera distributed around the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The mangrove is a standing tree up to 11 meters in height and most of its leaves are opposite, lanceolate to oval and sharp-top, with a light-faded color from the bottom on which there are many salt crystals and flowers with a round top. You see these shrubs usually surrounded by vertical standing plants without leaves that resemble stems emerging from the respiratory roots in order to provide them. With oxygen, and it helps Crimea adapt to this extremely salty, oxygen-scarce environment. The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah organized a number of activities in support of the marine environment as an initiative that is the first of its kind at the level of the emirate that included planting about 640 mangrove trees inside the Khor Al-Muzahmi Reserve within the framework of initiatives to support the sustainability of fish wealth and in line with the Ras Al Khaimah Government 2030 strategy aimed at achieving sustainability and strengthening For the Authority’s strategic objectives, which include the protection of biodiversity and natural habitats in the emirate. Earlier, the authority hosted a group of school students, where 500 mangroves were planted in Khor Al-Muzahmi Reserve, as these initiatives contributed to consolidating the original values ​​of students and rooting them in the emerging generations, in order to complement the role of the Ras Al Khaimah government in preserving a sustainable environment through the application of ideas and initiatives. That contribute to and enhance creativity and innovation in all fields, especially the environment. WAM / Muhammad al-Sharji / Mustafa Badr al-Din - [5 thousand Ghaf trees for individuals and institutions in Ras Al Khaimah](https://epda.rak.ae/5-thousand-ghaf-trees-for-individuals-and-institutions-in-ras-al-khaimah/): During the past year, the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah distributed more than 5,000 Ghaf trees to various segments of society, institutions and entities in the emirate. This initiative, which is provided by the environment free of charge to all segments and entities, is intended to enhance the diversity of natural resources in the emirate, by increasing the green area in various regions, and by involving society in all its segments and institutions in the sustainability of the environmental aspect. Dr. Saif Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, told the «Union»: During the past year, the authority distributed more than 5,000 Ghaf trees to all segments of society and to different institutions, which sent a request to the Authority in its desire to obtain these important species. From Ghaf trees in different numbers, to be cultivated in various locations. He stated that the authority provides these trees free of charge through the smart Estidama application, which provides a number of different services to the authority, for the public, including submitting an application to obtain different types of local trees, including Ghaf trees, as the authority seeks to work on providing needs and requirements The applicant is applying for those trees and presenting them to be cultivated, and contributing to the expansion of the green area for these types of trees that contain many environmental benefits. He pointed out that the authority distributed this number of trees, divided by 2865 Ghaf trees for industrial establishments and 738 trees for educational institutions from the schools category, and federal and local government agencies got 300 trees, while community members got 591 trees and hotels received 750 trees. Al-Ghais stressed that this service provided by the authority also comes within the endeavors to achieve the vision of the UAE in being a sustainable country, as well as anticipating the future, increasing community awareness, raising the level of environmental awareness, and promoting a culture of interest in the aspect of tree planting, specifically Ghaf, which is one of the most important types of trees. Which contribute to achieving an ecological balance and recognizing its many benefits. - Quoted from Al-Ittihad newspaper - - ["Flag Day" is when we renew our loyalty to the UAE](https://epda.rak.ae/flag-day-is-when-we-renew-our-loyalty-to-the-uae/): Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, affirmed that the "Flag Day" is in which we renew the pledge to the UAE to make any efforts for the sake of the advancement and advancement of the nation, and at the same time we renew the charter of belonging, loyalty and absolute sincerity. Dr. Al-Ghais added that whenever the knowledge rises above every institution, the charter of employee affiliation renews and the commitment of all the employees of the Environment Protection and Development Authority is renewed to do their utmost in order to achieve their authority for leadership positions through good management of their unique capabilities. And he considered that "Flag Day" tells thousands of stories of loyalty, belonging and devotion in a symbolic way. When the wise leadership declared it among the prominent days celebrated at the state level, the intention was to develop unified feelings among all citizens and residents on the land of the state, confirming the spirit of loyalty and belonging to our beloved Emirates. - [EPDA Governance Report During The First Half of 2020](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-governance-report-during-the-first-half-of-2020/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah announced in its governance report for the first half of 2020 that it had provided 49,713 services, all of which were provided 100% remotely, whether through digital channels, social media, toll-free contact numbers, text messages, or virtual communication platforms for various categories of customers. Such as industrial and professional establishments, fishermen, fishing workers, farm owners, government and educational institutions, individuals and various community groups, which were classified into 75 types of service based on the authority’s 23 specializations under Decree No. 2 of 2007 and its amendments, as well as its jurisdiction to regulate the profession of fishing under Decree No. 11 of 2015 ; The Authority’s vision revolves around leadership in protecting the environment and sustaining its resources. Its mission seeks innovation and excellence in monitoring and awareness methods, and preparing legislation based on specialized research programs that contribute to environmental protection and the sustainability of natural resources.Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, said that at the level of the group of monitoring services, environmental permits and no-objection certificates, 28,409 transactions were completed, representing 57.19% of the total number of transactions completed during the first half, of which 25,430 air quality measurements were read and 1543 permits. Environmental (issuance, renewal and amendment) for medium and small industrial and professional establishments, and 1511 NOCs, including 458 certificates for licensing liquid water tanks, and 990 certificates for importing and exporting chemicals, and for transporting used oils from Ras Al Khaimah ports, in addition to handling 15 environmental complaints Successfully,With regard to environmental awareness services, the authority has completed 15042 transactions, at a rate of 30.86% of the total number of transactions completed, including 15026 awareness text messages, and 16 activities and campaigns for environmental awareness throughout the emirate, and at the level of environmental sustainability services, the authority has completed 5195 services, including 4908 trees. Local, distributed to institutions and individuals (of which 2,250 local trees were replaced by environmental fines, which is the new service that the authority introduced during the first half of 2020), and finally, at the level of services for organizing the profession of fishing and licensing fishermen, the authority has completed 1023 transactions, including 414 services for issuing and renewing a license Artisanal, pedestrian and picnic fishing, 96 issuance and renewal of a fishing worker's card, 462 procedures for renewing lease contracts for fishing berths, warehouses, and housing for fishing workers, 35 transactions for issuing no-objection certificates to sail and transferring a boat license, etc., as well as 18 transactions for providing berths and warehouses for fishermen and housing for fishing workers.Dr. Saif Al-Ghais noted that during the first half of 2020, the authority planted 300 mangroves in the nursery designated for this purpose in Khor Muzahmi Reserve, and prepared 40 environmental impact studies and an environmental management plan and scope of work, in addition to the participation of 89 governmental institutions. And educational, social and industrial facilities) and work teams and individuals inside and outside the emirate and the state in the prizes organized by the authority such as the International Award for Soft Supervision of a Sustainable Environment, the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award, the Sustainability Award, and the Remote Environmental Innovator Award. The number of Estidama application users reached 4,524 users until End of the first half of 2020.Al-Ghais said that the research team in the Laboratories Department of the Authority was able to prepare and publish 4 scientific papers in international scientific journals on topics of comparing the nutritional properties of the Ghaf tree with other food sources, the Ghaf tree as a food supplement rich in unconventional desert protein, and the Ghaf tree as a potential desert nutrient, and its impact Semi-deadly for marine antifouling paints. Improved air pollutant concentrations by 40-60% Dr. Saif Al-Ghais confirmed that the air quality monitoring stations spread throughout the emirate's regions recorded a significant improvement in air quality and a decrease in the rates of air pollutants concentrations at a rate ranging between 40% - 60% from one station to another compared to the same period of the previous year, especially in the rate of carbon oxides concentration in The air, the rate of sulfur oxides concentration in the air and the rate of ozone gas concentration in the air, expecting an improvement in these rates during the coming period, as a result of the continuation of measures and measures implemented by the UAE under exceptional circumstances to control the spread of the new Corona virus. Al Ghais added: “The authority relies on the results of 14 marine and air monitoring stations, in addition to installing remote surveillance cameras in cement factories within the artificial intelligence system in environmental monitoring of the emirate’s facilities, and linking them to the main center of the authority’s central environmental operations room, with the aim of monitoring pollutants and ensuring access to High quality of data, as the stations transmit data around the clock, including detailed information on air quality and the size of pollutants " Dr. Saif Al Ghais attributed the high quality services provided by the authority and the highest standards and degrees of customer happiness during the first half of 2020 to the interest of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, in environmental work and his deep belief in the necessity of becoming Ras Al Khaimah A sustainable emirate in addition to the continuous follow-up by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah and Chairman of the Executive Council of the extent to which industrial and professional establishments adhere to environmental requirements, as well as the follow-up of His Highness the extent of progress in the implementation of the Ras Al Khaimah government initiatives related to the authority such as the Ras Al Khaimah is empty From plastic, Ras Al Khaimah eco-sign initiative, environmental remote monitoring initiative, desalinated water delivery project to farms, and Taraf tank monitoring system. Responding to business continuity requirements and providing economic incentives during the Corona pandemicAl Ghais added: “The authority was able to completely transform the provision of its services remotely during the new Corona virus (Covid 19) pandemic, by 100% by providing environmental permit services, handling environmental complaints through the e-government portal, requesting local trees, measuring the carbon and water footprint, and replacing fines. Environment by planting trees through the application of smart sustainability and fully activating the artificial intelligence system by linking air quality measurement stations to the authority's central environmental operations room and mobile operating room using artificial intelligence techniques, and even in the case of incomplete digital services such as fishermen licensing services, no-objection certificates and service provision Awareness raising has been enhanced with social media, toll-free contact numbers, text messages and virtual communication platforms to ensure that customers have access to all the authority’s services remotely without the need to come to the authority’s main headquarters or customer happiness center in compliance with the business continuity program according to the model of the National Committee for Business Continuity in the Government of Ras Al Khaimah In response to the directives of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of the Emirate, and the directives of the Executive Council headed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, on the necessity to provide a package of economic incentives and apply them to support business sectors and institutions and ensure the continuity of the economy during the pandemic, where the Authority launched the initiative to replace environmental fines By planting local trees as an innovative qualitative initiative to act as a correction for negative behaviors and an apology for the environment on the part of industrial and professional establishments for which environmental violations were issued, and as one of the most prominent and innovative economic incentives provided by the government of Ras Al Khaimah to all sectors operating in the emirate, and this initiative contributes to reducing carbon emissions, And mitigating the effects of climate change, increasing biodiversity, and increasing vegetation cover. Trees are also filters for fine particles and absorb pollutant gases, and with regard to fees for environmental violations on industrial institutions, including factories, crushers and cement factories, which exceed 50 thousand dirhams annually during the period from 1 April 2020 until the end of the year, the authority decided to postpone it A year. Compatibility with the concepts of the government excellence system in its second editionAl-Ghais added that the authority’s practices are completely in line with the second version of the government excellence system, in terms of the authority adopting a long-term, flexible strategic direction (the Commission’s plan 20-2030), as well as the authority’s proactive innovation in creating unprecedented services such as delivering desalinated water to farms and replacing fines by planting local trees. The authority also deals with various segments of society in a way that preserves a high quality of life for each customer, not just providing services. Such as monitoring air quality, measuring the carbon footprint and water and launching the Ras Al Khaimah Free of Plastic initiative and the Ras Al Khaimah Environmental Label Indeed, the goal of the authority is to raise the quality of human life in partnership and integration with other bodies and to enhance partnerships, cooperation and integration with the federal government (such as the partnership signed with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment) - a directive that the Executive Council emphasized in its last meeting - and then developing unique capabilities For the authority to create a positive impact for every citizen and resident in the emirate, such as innovation laboratories and pioneering awards organized by the authority as a qualitative transformation in environmental awareness initiatives at the global level, such as a soft control award for a sustainable environment and at the local level, such as the Student Environmental Protection Team Award, the Remote Environmental Innovator Award, and the Environmental Sustainability Award that made a change. Significant environmental commitment on the part of government institutions and industrial companies. This also applies to what the authority offers to fishermen; As the authority does not provide a simple licensing service, but it is fully living with their requirements, problems and future aspirations, and organizes the fishing profession for them by providing housing for fishing workers in the ports, providing berths and warehouses for fishermen, and ensuring a sustainable professional future for them through its pioneering practices to enhance fish stocks such as tidal basins and artificial caves. And others; With these leading centers, the authority has contributed to enhancing the competitiveness of the emirate and the country, as the UAE got eight first places in the Global Competitiveness Report in the Environmental Field for the year 2020. The Authority’s contribution to building the preparatory plan for the next fifty under the axis of environmental sustainabilityAl-Ghais indicated that the authority team has participated in a distinguished way with the government work teams in charge of contributing to the preparation of the preparation plan for the fifty 2021-2071 within the path of infrastructure and environmental sustainability, as the authority presented a distinct vision of future visions, programs, initiatives and corresponding projects under the axes of environment and food security and are still theses. The authority and other bodies concerned with environmental sustainability are under discussion and analysis under the supervision of the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and the Future. Launching the water footprint on the smart Estidama appThe authority launched the smart application "Estidama" since 2017, when 287 new users benefited from the services of this innovative application during the first half of 2020, bringing the total of those who have benefited from this application since its launch to 4,524 users, in order to enhance community participation in its activities and benefit from technologies. In the modern field of environmental awareness, the idea of implementing Estidama came about. The application includes an environmental footprint calculator, which is a calculator developed based on international best practices that enables the user to know the impact of his activity on the environment after entering some data related to water and energy consumption, the number of cars, the type of activity and the amount of waste generated. After extracting the result, the application directs some environmental advice and also provides a comparison between the footprint The environment for the user and the global environmental footprint. In the year 2020, and within the framework of the authority's endeavor to sustain the natural resources in the emirate, the authority developed a smart sustainability application in which the authority adopted a new environmental calculator to calculate the water footprint for members of society and establishments in the emirate to measure the rate of water consumption, as the water footprint is a measure of the amount of water used and is done With which to assess the potential environmental impact associated with water. Dr. Al-Ghais explained that there is a water footprint for individuals, societies, and even various activities, which is expressed in the volume of water consumed, whether for an individual or for a community or for the production of a specific product. His Excellency added that the principle of the water footprint and the methods of calculating it is an important research development for a group of UNESCO researchers to enable individuals to know their water consumption rates. The calculation method is based primarily on the amount of water in each product in each country separately. Conclusion of the Environmental Sustainability AwardThe Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah announced the names of the government and private agencies that won the Environmental Sustainability Award in its first session for the year 2020, where 14 governmental entities and industrial companies participated in the award. The Department of Economic Development won first place at the level of government agencies, followed by the second place Ras Al Khaimah Transportation in, then in third place the Federal Electricity and Water Authority, and at the level of the industrial sector, Uteco Company won first place, Ras Al Khaimah Ceramics Company second place, then Stephen Rock Company in third place. And it comes within the framework of the authority’s endeavor to achieve sustainable development and to fulfill the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the Federation and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, may God protect him, to protect the environment and the sustainability of natural resources under the supervision and follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Muhammad bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council. The award is the strategic objectives of the authority represented in enhancing the participation of government and private sectors in environmental awareness, reducing the environmental footprint, and engaging them in contributing to raising the level of environmental awareness towards all segments of society. The award aims at consolidating the principles of sustainable development and disseminating the concept of environmental culture among the various sectors of society. It also aims to enhance a sense of societal environmental responsibility, and to activate targeted and distinguished environmental activities in the environmental field. It seeks to appreciate and encourage the outstanding contributions in the field of environmental preservation by institutions seeking to achieve Excellence and innovationDistance Environment Innovate Award The authority launched a remote environmental innovation competition to keep pace with the current change in the education system in the UAE, which calls for carrying the learning message everywhere without relying on being in schools and universities. From this standpoint, the Environmental Protection Authority has initiated a competition for students urging them to create models from previously used materials that are recyclable, and by using the Microsoft Teams program that students usually use in remote study, and the students, through a live broadcast with the jury decided by the authority for a period of two hours, make Models and explanation of the idea. This competition aims to enhance family cooperation and stimulate creativity among students and arouse the enthusiasm of honest competition. It is also a new activity that can be practiced during the period of adherence to the national instructions not to leave the house except for necessity. As for the competition, its standards and conditions, the competition was open to students of all ages from all emirates of the country, and that the participant must design the model directly in front of the committee by hosting the participant through the Microsoft Teams program, and that all the content actually used is previously used materials, and that it contains On the sense of creativity and innovation and the possibility to benefit from it. 8 schools won the Student Environmental Protection Team Award The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah announced that 8 schools won the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award in its third session for the year 2020, as the Authority received 36 entries in the award for the schools and individual participations categories, and the authority had launched this award since 2017 in partnership with the Ministry of Education In order to enhance the vision of the national agenda of the United Arab Emirates 2021 in achieving sustainable development and achieving the development vision of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah 2030 and its strategic directions under the axis of sustainability |, where the issue of environmental protection and the sustainability of natural resources is supported by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the Union Ruler The Emirate - may God protect him, and the Authority’s initiatives and projects are also supervised and monitored by His Highness Sheikh Muhammad bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council. The number of schools participating in the third session of the award, in its two main categories, reached 23 schools, and the number of students participating in the student environmental protection teams reached 447 students. The authority contributed to providing a standard environmental dress for them, and it also provided 500 local trees for free based on Request from school administrations participating in the award. The outputs of the environmental protection teams' initiatives participating in the award for this year, which were characterized by diversity and richness, included 90 different environmental activities in various fields such as energy conservation, biological and biological diversity, increasing the green area and the importance of local trees, recycling and food security, and the total number of local trees that were made They were planted in schools or in their external surroundings and within the local community 1672 local trees (Al Ghaf, Sidr Al Samar and Al Nakhil) were planted through afforestation campaigns in the participating schools, and the total number of innovations that contribute to solving some environmental problems reached 54 environmental innovations, and teams organized 30 internal environmental competitions for students, and 39 environmental festivals to celebrate various global and local environmental events, and the total number of awareness campaigns that were organized reached 45 awareness campaigns that included various environmental axes such as cleaning and afforestation campaigns, energy conservation and recycling. The teams removed 55 damas trees due to the damage they cause to the environment, and the total number of environmental artworks that were submitted from The different schools and their use as a means to raise environmental awareness and promote environmental culture among students are approximately 25 environmental artworks that included plays, songs, art exhibitions and the use of puppet theater, in addition to the success of most teams in the continuity of their activities during the third semester of last year during the distance education period due to the pandemic Corona, as environmental practices have moved from schools to students' homes through planting local trees, recycling and implementing energy conservation initiatives. Athan School for Basic Education - the first cycle - won the first place ever, followed by Kindergarten in second place at all, then in third place in all, Al Dhait School for Basic Education in the first cycle, while Athan School also won first place at the level of basic education Khatt Secondary School for Boys won first place at the level of secondary education, and Al Mataf Kindergarten won first place at the kindergarten level. And based on the award criteria, the Azan school got the best school in implementing the planning and implementation standard, and the same school also got the best school in implementing the environmental awareness and education standard, and the Khat school got the best school in implementing the green patch promotion standard, and as for the standard of consumption rationalization Energy Bin Zaidoun School for Basic Education got the best school to implement this standard, and the Tunb School for Secondary Education for Boys won the best school in implementing the environmental innovation standard, and Al-Ula Kindergarten won the best school in applying the standard for continuous learning and development, and the Azan school again got the best school In applying the results and impact criteria, and finally Al-Kharran Basic Education School got the best school in applying the media coverage standard. Individual Winning Categories As for individual participations, it falls under 4 categories, including the creation of an environmental cartoon character that promotes the environment and sustainable development, and the student Waad Muhammad from Al Hamham School won the first place, and the short story category represents writing a short story that draws on the events of the reality in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The age stages of evaluating the participations in this category, in which the student Ghala Ahmed from Al-Wadi School won, and the individual participations contain the category of photography to depict the features and aesthetics of the land and marine environment and its biological diversity, and was won by the student Shatha Muhammad Al-Mansouri from Julfar School, and finally, in the fourth category, the student won Abdullah Ahmad Al-Dhahouri from Al-Wadi School for his participation in a short environmental awareness film on an environmental issue in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Al-Ghais concluded his statement by saying: “The aim of the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award is to prepare a generation that contributes to protecting the environment, preserving its sustainability, and promoting innovation among student environmental teams in solving environmental problems and cooperating with schools in highlighting special contributions in preserving the environment and seeking excellence. And innovation, the award also provides a new approach to environmental awareness through the educational approach, which depends on the transfer of environmental awareness to schools and from there to various groups of the local community by encouraging them to raise the level of environmental awareness of the authority and their formation of awareness monitoring teams in each school to enhance the concept of environmental protection and the sustainability of its resources, It should be noted that the Student Environmental Protection Teams project won first place in the outstanding government project category in partnership with the Ministry of Education in the categories of the Government Excellence Award in Ras Al Khaimah for the year 2017. - [EPDA announces that 8 schools have won the Student Environmental Protection Teams award](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-announces-that-8-schools-have-won-the-student-environmental-protection-teams-award/): The Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah announced that 8 schools won the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award in its third session for the year 2020, as the Authority received 36 entries in the award for the schools and individual participations categories, and the authority has launched this award since 2017 in partnership with the Ministry of Education In support of the vision of the UAE National Agenda 2021 in achieving sustainable development and achieving the development vision of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah 2030 and its strategic directions under the axis of sustainability. The issue of environmental protection and the sustainability of natural resources enjoys all the support of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the Federation, Ruler of the Emirate - may God protect him, and the Authority’s initiatives and projects are also supervised and monitored by His Highness Sheikh Muhammad bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council. Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority, stated that the schools participating in the third session of the award, in their two main categories, totaled 23 schools, and the number of students participating in the student environmental protection teams reached 447 students, and the authority contributed to providing them with a unified environmental dress. It also provided 500 local trees, free of charge, at the request of the administrations of the participating schools. Dr. Saif Al-Ghais added that the outputs of the environmental protection teams participating in the award for this year were distinguished by diversity and richness, as the number of environmental events that were organized reached nearly 90 various environmental activities in various fields such as energy conservation, biological and biological diversity, increasing the green area and the importance of local trees and restoring Recycling and food security, as the total number of local trees that were planted in schools or in their external surroundings and within the local community reached 1672 local trees (Al Ghaf, Sidr Al Samar, and Palms) that were planted through afforestation campaigns in the participating schools, and the total number of innovations 54 environmental innovations contribute to solving some environmental problems, and the teams organized 30 internal environmental competitions for students, and 39 environmental ceremonies to celebrate various global and local environmental events. The total number of awareness campaigns that were organized reached 45 awareness campaigns that included various environmental axes such as campaigns Cleaning and afforestation, energy conservation and recycling, and the teams removed 55 damas trees due to their damage to the environment. The total number of environmental artworks that were submitted from various schools and used as a means to raise the level of environmental awareness and promote environmental culture among students amounted to approximately 25 environmental artistic works that included plays, songs, art exhibitions and the use of puppet theater, in addition to the success of most teams in the continuity of their activities during the third semester. Since last year during the distance education period due to the Corona pandemic, environmental practices moved from schools to students' homes through planting local trees, recycling and implementing energy conservation initiatives. Winning schoolsAthan School for Basic Education - the first cycle - won the first place ever, followed by Kindergarten in second place at all, then in third place in all, Al Dhait School for Basic Education in the first cycle, while Athan School also won first place at the level of basic education. Khatt Secondary School for Boys won first place at the level of secondary education, and Al Mataf Kindergarten won first place at the kindergarten level. Based on the award criteria, the Azan school got the best school in implementing the planning and implementation standard, and the same school also got the best school in implementing the environmental awareness and education standard, and the Khat school got the best school in implementing the green patch promotion standard, and as for the standard for consumption rationalization Energy Bin Zaidoun School for Basic Education got the best school to implement this standard, and the Tunb School for Secondary Education for Boys won the best school in implementing the environmental innovation standard, and Al-Ula Kindergarten won the best school in applying the standard for continuous learning and development, and the Azan school again got the best school In implementing the results and impact criteria, and finally Al-Kharran Basic Education School got the best school in applying the media coverage standard.Winning individual categoriesAs for individual participation, it falls under 4 categories, including the creation of an environmental cartoon character that promotes the environment and sustainable development, and the student Waad Muhammad from Al Hamham School won first place, and the short story category represents writing a short story that draws on the events of the reality in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, as the difference between The age stages of evaluating the participations in this category and the student Ghala Ahmed from Al-Wadi School won, and the individual participations contain the photography category to depict the features and aesthetics of the land and marine environment and its biological diversity, and was won by the student Shatha Muhammad Al-Mansouri from Julfar School, and finally, in the fourth category, the student won Abdullah Ahmad Al-Dhahouri from Al-Wadi School for his participation in a short environmental awareness film on an environmental issue in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. Evaluation CriteriaAl-Ghais stressed that the evaluation process for the participating schools was based on several evaluation criteria, such as: the extent of planning and implementation, the clarity of the mechanism, objectives and processes of the programs carried out by the team, the initiatives and the environmental activities, and the degree of balance in the formation of the team in the age stages and grades is considered. As well as taking into account the level of environmental awareness and education through the number and type of environmental initiatives, campaigns and activities that have been implemented, the number of internal environmental competitions and the number of environmental events that have been celebrated. The criterion for strengthening the green area comes to measure the area of the green area in the school and the number of local trees such as Al Ghaf, Sidr, Al Samar and others, which are planted inside and outside the school and to take care of them. The level of rationalization of electricity and water consumption is also measured by the extent of the existence of internal controls and practices that encourage rationalization in consumption. The level of environmental innovation is measured by the creativity of innovative ideas, projects and applications, their realism and their potential for development in the field of environmental work. And because the process of continuous learning and development is important in the evaluation process, the preparation and qualification of the team, the stakeholders and those in charge of it, and the number of scientific and practical workshops and benchmarking carried out by the team were taken into consideration. Al-Ghais concluded his statement by saying: “The aim of the Student Environmental Protection Teams Award is to prepare a generation that contributes to protecting the environment, preserving its sustainability, and promoting innovation among student environmental teams in solving environmental problems and cooperating with schools in highlighting special contributions in preserving the environment and striving for excellence. And innovation, the award also provides a new approach to environmental awareness through the educational approach, which depends on the transfer of environmental awareness to schools and from there to various groups of the local community by encouraging them to raise the level of environmental awareness of the authority and their formation of awareness monitoring teams in each school in order to enhance the concept of environmental protection and the sustainability of its resources. It should be noted that the Student Environmental Protection Teams project won first place in the outstanding government project category, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, in the categories of the Government Excellence Award in Ras Al Khaimah for the year 2017. - [EPDA Laboratories obtain ISO 9001 certification](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-laboratories-obtain-iso-9001-certification/): The laboratories of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah have obtained an ISO 9001: 2015 certificate, as the scope of this certificate includes all the tasks that the laboratory performs, such as studying the state of the environment, analyzing water, soil, plant and fish samples, etc. and preparing research that can be published in scientific journals. Dr. Saif Muhammad Al-Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, stated that one of the authority's most important specializations, which was stipulated by Law No. 2 of 2007 regarding the establishment of the authority, is to establish reference laboratories for the environment in the emirate, and to provide the technical staff and equipment necessary to operate them. The ISO certification reflects the laboratory’s commitment to achieving the authority’s vision of protecting the environment and the sustainability of its resources, and its commitment to providing high-quality and timely analyzes for all samples and to meet the requirements and expectations of customers or exceed their expectations Al-Ghais added that this certificate confirms the success of laboratories in designing a quality management system to ensure the maintenance of a high level of quality of their services, innovation and excellence in preparing research that can be published in scientific journals and studying the state of the environment through managing and documenting a system of operations and verification at all stages of procedures the work.,The authority's laboratories are in close cooperation with laboratories, research centers, universities, international scientific journals, other local and federal government agencies, and partners related to the field of laboratory work, and to support this, the quality policy guarantees the commitment of the laboratory management and employees to provide high-quality test results and excellent professional service to customers, and the presence of A strict quality control program with the aim of ensuring the quality of the test results, and the commitment to review the quality policy to ensure their suitability, and to communicate them to the employees of the laboratory, the authority, the concerned parties and to the concerned authorities, as well as to ensure the continuity of the application and development of the quality management system in an efficient and effective manner. It should be noted that the authority's laboratories provide testing services for all types of environmental samples (drinking water, industrial wastewater, soil, reservoir water, groundwater, sea water and others) and prepare and publish researches in international refereed journals in the fields of microbiology that have recently started. Nutrients and nutritional content, antibacterial toxicology, algae toxicology, and verification of the analytical method, where the authority, through laboratories, has succeeded in publishing dozens of research papers in scientific conferences and journals, including pioneering research that dealt with unprecedented topics such as protein extraction from tree leaves and bark Ghaf and protein extraction from algae as food alternatives that meet the needs of food security in the distant future, and the contribution of algae to carbon dioxide absorption with the possibility of using Ghaf tree leaves in the extraction of medicinal drugs. ## Pages - [EPDA registered Consultant list 2026](https://epda.rak.ae/epda-registered-consultant-list-2026/) - [Test News](https://epda.rak.ae/test-news/) - [Replacing Environmental Fines by Planting Local Trees Initiative ​](https://epda.rak.ae/replacing-environmental-fines-by-planting-local-trees-initiative/): Replacing Environmental Fines by Planting Local Trees Initiative ​ ​The initiative’s strategic objectives​​​​: Promote environmental commitment in the industrial and professional sectors and development projects Supporting the industrial and professional sector in case of economic crises Mitigating the effects of climate change Improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions Promote the One Million Tree Initiative […] - [Next 50 Plans](https://epda.rak.ae/2775-2/): Initiatives of the authority that were nominated within the initiatives of the local authorities in the preparation for the next fifty plan First: the environment The initiative to plant one million trees, including replacing the fines by planting local trees and establishing a bank for local seeds and threatened and endangered plant species. 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You can contact EPDA toll-free number: 8003732 Suggestions can submitted through the various channels of suggestions submission: – EPDA website. – Estidama application. – Ras Al Khaimah government portal. 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To use this Web Part, you must use a browser that supports this element, such as Internet Explorer 7.0 or later. - [Important Environmental Websites](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/important-environmental-websites/) - [Environmental Agreements](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/environmental-agreements/) - [Environmental Guidelines](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/environmental-guidelines/) - [Published scientific papers](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/published-scientific-papers/): ​ EPDA’s Research and Published Studies Effects of Abamectin on Tilapia mossambica peters changes in reduced glutathione (GSH) and protein content​ ​ Impact of Different Concentration of copper Nanoparticles and Organometallic Compounds on Biomarkers of Tilapia Fish ​​​ ​Comparison of Nutritional properties of Prosopis cineraria (Ghaf) with other food products​​​​​ ​Impact of Acid Rain on […] - [Environmental Indicators](https://epda.rak.ae/home/services/environmental-indicators/): ​​​​​​​​​​​ Environmental Indicators Air Quality Indicators Marine Stations Data​ Groundwater Salinity​​ Heavy Metals in Fishes ​​ Concentration of element in sediment samples from dam​​​​​ ​ - [​Joi​n Us ](https://epda.rak.ae/home/contact-us/join-us/): ​Joi​n Us ​Vacancies​ Training Opportunities Volunteer - [egames03](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/e-participation/electronic-games/egames03/) - [egames02](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/e-participation/electronic-games/egames02/) - [egames01](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/e-participation/electronic-games/egames01/) - [Community Awareness Messages​](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/e-participation/community-awareness-messages/): Awareness Advice Click on the images to display them in full size. - [Electronic Games​](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/e-participation/electronic-games/): Games Puzzle 1 Puzzle 2 Puzzle 3 - [E-Participation](https://epda.rak.ae/home/open-data/e-participation/): E-Participation Participate with us in Social Media       Questionnaires and Polls Electronic Games Community Awareness Messages - [Social Media](https://epda.rak.ae/home/contact-us/social-media/): Social Me​dia @EPDARAK - [Contact Us](https://epda.rak.ae/home/contact-us/contact-us/): Environment Protection and Development AuthorityRas Al Khaimah, UAE​​​ Working hours in the main office in EPDA building: 07:30AM – 02:30PM Toll Free: 800 3732 Phone: 07 2333371 Fax: 07 2333789 Email: info@epda.rak.ae​​​ Longitude & Lattitude:  25°46’32.0″N 55°55’55.2″E​​​​​ Location Map - [Unified Customer Complaint System](https://epda.rak.ae/home/services/unified-customer-complaint-system/): Unified Customer Complaint System The Unified Customer Complaint System project was implemented in furtherance of the principle of providing added value to customers and to achieve a faster response to their requirements and expectations. 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