Introduction
In a remarkable feat of environmental stewardship, Dubai Municipality has achieved a significant milestone in preserving Dubai’s marine ecosystem. With the successful retrieval of approximately 820 tons of marine debris from nine wooden cruise and commercial vessels deep within Dubai Creek water, the Municipality’s annual strategy for water canal hygiene is well underway. This strategic initiative aims to optimize waste management, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the sustainability of Dubai’s water canals. With 95% of the collected waste diverted to recycling businesses, Dubai Municipality is leading the charge in creating a cleaner and greener environment.
Dubai Municipality’s Commitment to Water Canal Hygiene
Under the visionary leadership of Saeed Abdul Rahim Safar, the Director of Waste Operations Department at Dubai Municipality, the water canal hygiene plan was launched last year across key locations in Dubai. These locations include Dubai Creek, Vessel Anchors No. 6/7/8, Jaddaf Dubai Area, Dubai Water Canal, Business Bay Canal, and Waterfront. The ongoing plan aims to continue removing maritime vessels that obstruct the waterways, with 11 more slated for removal by the end of 2024.
A Catalyst for a Sustainable Marine Environment
Dubai Municipality’s strategy is not merely about cleaning the water canals; it embodies a broader vision of sustainable growth and marine conservation. By preserving Dubai’s marine and natural environment, the Municipality seeks to bolster the city’s attractiveness and appeal to residents and tourists alike.
Protecting Dubai’s Marine Life and Fisheries
Director Safar highlights the plan’s pivotal role in eliminating canal waste that hinders the navigational movement of boats and vessels. Additionally, it aims to prevent marine pollution caused by hazardous industrial products and engine residues, which pose threats to Dubai’s native marine life and fisheries. This ambitious strategy enjoys the active collaboration of key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, ensuring its efficiency and timely execution.
Phase One: Delivering Concrete Results
During the first phase of the cleaning operations, Dubai Municipality’s dedicated team effectively removed three ships and sea boats, totaling approximately 310 tons, since the beginning of the year. Adhering to stringent precautionary measures and public safety requirements, a field team was deployed to monitor the work closely and ensure adherence to the strategy.
Compliance with Environmental Regulations
Dubai Municipality strictly adheres to internal procedures and field tasks, in line with the Administrative Decree No. 1 of 2010. Additionally, the Cabinet Decision No. 71 of 2021 designates the debris of sinking ships as marine residue, assigning Dubai Municipality, the local environmental authority, the responsibility of their recovery.
Past Successes and Ongoing Commitment
Over the years, Dubai Municipality has successfully recovered 37 sunken shipping vehicles, effectively mitigating the spread of pollutants, such as oil spots and leakages, arising from sunken vessels. The Municipality also addresses the impact of collisions, fires, algae growth, and deceased marine life on the marine ecosystem.
Conclusion
Dubai Municipality’s monumental achievement in removing 820 tons of marine debris from Dubai Creek water highlights the city’s unwavering commitment to environmental preservation. By promoting sustainable practices and taking proactive measures to protect the marine ecosystem, Dubai sets a sterling example for the global community. With continued support and collaboration from public and private partners, Dubai Municipality remains steadfast in its pursuit of a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Dubai’s water canals and marine environment.
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