Muscat: On Sunday, the Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Environment Authority, commemorated World Wetlands Day, observed annually on February 2.
This year's theme, "Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future," emphasizes the crucial role wetlands play in sustaining ecological balance and fostering biodiversity.
The event also underscores the significant contributions of wetlands in providing essential natural resources and environmental services that enhance human well-being.
World Wetlands Day serves as a platform to promote environmental awareness, particularly regarding the importance of wetlands in sustaining life on Earth.
An official from the Environment Authority noted that Oman’s wetlands are a vital source of freshwater, aiding in its purification and storage, which in turn supports agricultural, environmental, social, and economic activities.
He further explained that these ecosystems are essential in mitigating climate change effects by functioning as natural carbon sinks, while also being critical for biodiversity preservation, water quality regulation, and pollutant filtration.
He highlighted that the Environment Authority has undertaken numerous initiatives and projects over the past year to safeguard wetlands, including a project aimed at planting 4 million mangrove seeds across various coastal governorates, along with the planting of 54,000 mangrove seedlings.
A project was initiated to examine alterations in coastal and inland wetlands, focusing on 59 locations, alongside a survey of avian species and biodiversity within these wetlands. Additionally, the first phase of the Oman Blue Carbon Project has commenced.
The Authority is dedicated to bolstering both regional and international initiatives aimed at the conservation and protection of wetlands, ensuring compliance with the highest local and international standards. This includes regional collaboration that facilitates the exchange of expertise and the provision of mangrove seeds to neighboring countries.
Oman became a signatory to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2013, underscoring its dedication to safeguarding this vital ecosystem and fostering international cooperation for its protection.
The Environment Authority hosts numerous events and clean-up initiatives to motivate community members to engage in wetland conservation, promote sustainable development efforts, and protect the natural heritage.
