Sharjah: The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah has organized the 'Sustainable Sea' initiative as part of its World Environment Day activities. The initiative aims to highlight the importance of protecting marine ecosystems, raise community awareness about the dangers of marine pollution and plastic waste, and promote a culture of environmental responsibility and volunteerism in safeguarding natural resources.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative combined hands-on environmental action with awareness activities, featuring a seabed clean-up diving campaign involving divers and volunteers. The campaign was launched from Khor Al Khan Marina with the objective of removing marine debris and reducing the impact of pollution on marine life and coral reefs, thereby contributing to ecological balance and the sustainability of marine ecosystems.
The initiative was supported by several collaborating entities, including the Sharjah Museums Authority, BEEAH Group, the Sharjah Fish Resources Authority, Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, Sharjah Municipality, and Majlan Marine Sports Centre, reflecting the importance of institutional partnerships in supporting environmental initiatives and advancing sustainability goals.
Aisha Rashid Deemas, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, affirmed that the marine environment is one of the most important natural resources requiring collective efforts to protect and preserve, given its rich biodiversity and vital role in maintaining ecological balance. She emphasized EPAA's ongoing commitment to raising environmental awareness and encouraging community participation in marine conservation.
The initiative also included a guided tour of the Sharjah Aquarium, along with specialized awareness stations addressing marine pollution, the risks associated with excessive plastic consumption, and its impact on marine organisms and sea turtles. Visitors were introduced to environmentally friendly alternatives that encourage more sustainable consumption habits.
An educational lecture delivered by a specialist researcher on sea turtles and the impact of plastic pollution on their survival was also part of the event. The session highlighted the challenges facing these species, the importance of preserving their natural habitats, and their role in sustaining healthy marine ecosystems.
At the conclusion of the initiative, EPAA honored the participating entities in recognition of their contributions to the success of the event. The 'Sustainable Sea' initiative contributes to national efforts aimed at protecting marine environments and preserving biodiversity by combining environmental awareness, volunteer engagement, and practical field activities focused on removing marine waste and encouraging sustainable behaviors among community members.