Our Oman

2015

Your Insight Into

The Most Pro – Environmental Companies In The Sultanate

2015

‫إطاللة متعمقة على‬ ‫أكثر الشركات الداعمة للبيئة‬ ‫في السلطنة‬

Supported by

Ministry of Environment and Climatic Affairs

Environment society of oman Platinum sponsor

6 | 

Gold sponsor

Silver sponsor

Foreword This is the 2nd edition of “Our Oman”, a comprehensive book on the Sultanate’s environment.

Rich in content and beautiful in design, the book offers in-depth coverage of the whole range of environmental issues, challenges and achievements at the national and global levels.

Commendable efforts are being undertaken by various public and private bodies to ensure a sustainable environment for the Sultanate so that our lives are healthy and happy. These efforts are highlighted here.

Also “Our Oman” reminds us of our responsibility to be “ Green Crusaders” to ensure that our environment remains green, rich and diverse.

Ali Rashid Al Matani Chief Executive Officer, Future Media Group

We thank all our sponsors and well wishers for their valuable support for this eco-initiative.

Let’s all strive to make the Sultanate the best place on Earth!

| 7

Content

11

13

Welcome to Our Oman

51

47

Towards a Green Oman

63

Global Environment

75

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ali Rashid Al Matani

Editor

T V SARNGADHARAN

DESIGN Concept & Creation Pradhap Siluvai

Middle East & Environment

Oman Green Crusaders

Advertising & Marketing Kalpana D’Silva

Published By Future media group P.O Box 1370, P.C,130, Athaiba,Sultanate of Oman Tel.: +968 24613221, 24614575 • Fax: +968 24614559 www.future-oman.com 8 |

Oman-Land of Bliss

TO OMAN’S ENVIRONMENT

MAJIS INDUSTRIAL SERVICES SAOC

PO Box 553, Postal Code: 322 Falaj Al Qabail, Sultanate of Oman Tel.: (+968) 26852400 / 26852466 Fax: (+968) 26852444 E-mail: enquiry@miscoman.com www.majisoman.com

HELPING FARMERS TO GROW MORE

OMIFCO is one of the leading industrial successes in the Sultanate of Oman. We are proud of achieving excellence in all aspects within a very short period, the most important of which is in the environments, safety, productivity, Omanisation and our Corporate Social Responsibility.

OMAN INDIA FERTILIZER COMPANY S.A.O.C. PO Box: 67, PC 411, Sur, Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968 25532144 / Fax: +968 25532180

www.omifco.com

Welcome to Our Oman

T

his book attempts to enlighten you with refreshingly new insights into, and astute analyses on, the Sultanate’s environment in the larger context of global green challenges and initiatives.

The Sultanate of Oman, known as the Jewel on the Arabian Peninsula with its magical landscape of rolling mountains, expansive deserts, lush green vegetation and pristine beaches is truly an unspoilt land. The magical beauty becomes all the more charming against the backdrop of its rich cultural heritage and friendly, peace-loving citizens.

The Sultanate’s Government cares much for its environment.

The visionary leadership of HM Sultan Qaboos Bin Said accords utmost urgency and importance to the progress and development of the nation but strictly in accordance with sustainable development practices. It is a matter of great pride for Omanis as well as expatriates and even the whole of humanity that industrial growth in Oman – be it in the energy or tourism or any other sector – has never been at the cost of its environment.

This book is a celebration of Oman’s environment, its ecoconscious businesses and green achievements. The book also brings to the public domain – with the hope of igniting debates and discussions – the Sultanate’s environmental issues and concerns as well.

If you are curious about how far the Sultanate has advanced on its noble journey of sustainable development, this book is for you.

No doubt, the buzzword today is environment. We have now green economics and green politics, to name a few, engaging

us constantly in unending debates and pushing thinkers to brainstorm on environment in all its multidimensional aspects.

This is not surprising, for everything we can conceive of is in some way linked to the environment as our lives and our environment form a highly symbiotic relationship.Now with global warming and other natural catastrophes constantly reminding us all about the need to respect nature, the significance of the subject cannot be overemphasized.

Meanwhile at the government level, internationally, policy makers are feeling the heat to formulate and implement effective environmental controls and strategies and sign multilateral treaties and protocols toward achieving lesser emissions and fewer carbon footprints.

The book has two broad sections: one on the natural splendour of the Sultanate, and the other on Sustainable Development.

The first brings out the remarkable beauty of the land blessed with magnificent mountains, breathtaking deserts, charming lush vegetation and pristine beaches, and also highlights its rich culture and heritage, and indigenous craftsmanship and skills. The other is about sustainable development, viewed from global, regional and local perspectives. But the prime focus is on the sultanate’s policy vision on environment, eco issues and green initiatives.

Now, let’s begin the green journey.

Against this background, this book is a study, and a celebration, of the Sultanate’s – and to a lesser extent, the world’s – green efforts and accomplishments, by the government, industries, organisations and the public.

Through this book we strive to • Shine light on Oman’s environmental responsibility initiatives as well as challenges • Emphasize the impacts of Oman’s environmental policies • Highlight the sustainable business models adopted by various industries and corporate houses in Oman • Provide specific examples of green companies and their environmental credentials • Discuss global green movements and issues

| 11

Towards a Greener Oman HM Sultan Qaboos Said’s Vision

T

he Sultanate of Oman, under the wise leadership of HM Sultan Qaboos Said, is committed to protecting its environment through effective, forward-looking policies and efficient implementing mechanisms even as the nation rides high on brisk development and inclusive growth.

From the very beginning of the Blessed Renaissance, HM Sultan Qaboos has been stressing the importance of incorporating sustainability into the development model for the country. He made it very clear that while development and growth across sectors need to be encouraged with the greatest vigour, equally, Oman’s rich and diverse environment must be protected and nurtured in the most scientific way. All the policy decisions on economic and infrastructural growth were formulated based on the Sultan’s green vision.

In fact, the Sultan’s support and concern for environment is not limited to Oman. By instituting the Sultan Qaboos Prize for Environmental Preservation as a means to honour international efforts at protecting the environment, HM the Sultan has showed that his ideas on environment are universal.

It must be noted that the government’s environmental action plan has successfully achieved the noble goal of incorporating a commitment to preserving its wonderful environment into all its development projects.

Sultan Qaboos Prize for Environmental Preservation Sultan Qaboos Prize for Environmental Preservation is a biennial international award instituted by the Sultanate of Oman in collaboration with UNESCO to recognize excellence in the field of protection and conservation of environment.

The prize is awarded every two years, honouring outstanding contributions by individuals, groups of individuals, institutes or organizations in the management or preservation of the environment, consistent with the policies, aims and objectives of UNESCO. The Prize carries a financial reward of approximately USD 70,000, a donation made by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, which exemplifies His Excellency’s concern for the global environment and support for commendable initiatives towards protecting the same.

The 2013 UNESCO Sultan QaboosPrize for Environment Preservation wasshared by the National Forest Holding State Forests in Poland and the Wild Life at Risk Protection Organisation in South Africa.

Aligning with Oman’s strategic vision for integrated development, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA) has been keenly working on consolidating the concepts of proper and responsible management of

environment resources. With the Sultanate witnessing an extended phase of fast-tracked comprehensive development, ensuring necessary protection of the different elements of its environment has become quite a task. Stringent inspections and enforcement of environmental controls as well as expanding the operational scope of environmental monitoring have thus come to define MECA’s approach to ensure minimum eco impact from accelerated pace of development.

There has been rewarding coordination and partnership between the government and international organizations, including the regional office of the United Nations Environment Programme, which significantly enabled Oman to take advantage of their expertise in reviewing and updating the national strategy for the protection of its environment.

Meanwhile, the successful compliance with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change continues to fetch rich dividends.

The government is also working with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization on the implementation of strategies and projects in the fields of protecting ozone layer, controlling climate change, exploiting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gases.

As of now, Oman has ratified 17 international environmental conventions, reflecting its eco-commitment.

Rich biodiversity As the third largest country on the Arabian Peninsula, the Sultanate of Oman is home to some of the richest biodiversities

| 13

in the region. Its land is a diverse mix of vast expanses of desert, sand and mountain ranges and fertile plains hemmed in by a 3,165-km coastline.Though a greater part of the country is arid, Oman is an area of relatively high biodiversity, especially in the regions with a higher level of precipitations. Oman has a variety of ecosystems including coastal plains,lagoons, deserts and mountains.

Oman is home to more than 1200 plant species.Of these some 78 are endemic, while nearly 11 plant species are considered endangered or critically endangered. The country’s fauna include the Arabian gazelle, wolf, striped hyenas, gazelle, Arabian oryx, Nubian ibex, Arabian tahr and Arabian leopard.

Around 1,150 fish species, 330 bird species, 75 reptile species, five turtle species and thousands of invertebrate species have also made Oman their home.

Oman’s rich biodiversity is threatened mainly by overgrazing, loss of habitat, degradation of coastal and marine ecosystems, and population growth.

Pollution has had a major role in the falling numbers of wild fauna, while vegetation is negatively impacted by erosion, alteration of wadi courses, saline intrusion, use of pesticides and demographic pressure.

Several Royal Decrees have been issued in the interest ofprotecting Oman’s environment. Laws on the Conservation of the Environment and Prevention of Pollution (114/2001), Nature Reserves and Wildlife Conservation (6/2003), Handling and Use of Chemicals (46/95), Establishment of Turtles Reserve (25/96), and Maritime Law (35/81) have, among others, ensured that Oman’s environment is robustly preserved.

An amendment to some conditions of the Law of Establishment of National Parks and Natural Protected Areas (47/95), the issuance of a Decision on the Territorial Sea, the Continental Shelf and the Exclusive Economic Zone (15/81), and the

14 |

Establishment of A’Demaniyat Islands Nature Reserve (23/96) count among the significant steps taken by the government in preserving the Sultanate’s environment.

Apart from specific ministerial decisions, Oman has ratified of a host of international conventions and agreements which guided the formulation of Sultanate’s legal framework to protect its environment.

Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs

I

n line with its strategic initiatives, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA) is keenly working on consolidating the concepts of proper handling of environment resources and preserving them, as well as implementing the principles of environmental management and development.

Based on the noble approach by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said to promote awareness about the importance of preserving Oman’s nature and the legacies of civilization, and to work on their development in harmony with the requirements of the modern era, the ministry has been hosting major environmental events, as well as participating in them. The efforts have yielded significant returns in terms of preserving the environment and its natural resources to the benefit of all sections of society.

This is achieved through hosting a raft offunctions and other initiatives across the governorates of the Sultanate, with the active participation of various government as well as private agencies and institutions.

The Sultanate is witnessing a phase of brisk and comprehensive development, and as such ensuring the necessary protection of the different elements of its environment assumes great significance. Towards this end, MECA has taken serious steps to intensify inspections and enforce environmental controls apart from expanding the operational scope of environmental monitoring, so that the accelerated pace of development across industries including tourism has the minimal or zero impacton its environment.

Furthermore, there has been constant coordination and partnership with international organizations, including the regional office of the United Nations Environment Programme, to take advantage of their expertise in reviewing and updating the national strategy for the protection of environment in Oman, alongside the drawing of the state environmental policy and updating the national strategy on biodiversity action plans. The successful cooperation between the Sultanate and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change continues.

| 15

In addition, there is cooperation with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization in the implementation of strategies and projects in the Sultanate in the fields of ozone layer protection, climate change, renewable energy applications and reducing greenhouse gases.

The environmental initiatives in the Sultanate have been established on the solid foundations of principles and compliance mandated by environmental laws and regulations of the Sultanate, and in conformity with the ministry’s support for economic development projects in the country. Surely, all these efforts contributed to establishing sustainable development principles in various fields.

Important implemented projects The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs signed a number of agreements in the environmental field, nature conservation, and biodiversity. The most important of these agreements is the one pertaining to the monitoring of air

quality and noise levels in the governorate of Muscat, through the installation of two stations to monitor static pollutants released from vehicles’ exhausts and to measure the levels of noise.

In addition, a mobile unit has been installed to monitor and maintain the quality of air and measure the levels of pollution and noise in the most congested areas in Muscat. Meanwhile, the ministry aims to study a proposed project to implement a new system at sites of crushers and quarries in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Industry to ensure accurate environmental assessment and proper legal evaluation of such projects.

This helps in fast and right decision-making while assessing the status of crushers and quarries in the Sultanate.

With respect to policies and plans on waste management in the Sultanate, they are implemented in coordination with Oman Holding Company for Environmental Services (Be’ah).

It is mandatory that necessary approvals are obtained for the company’s projects, in terms of facilities, and disposal sites of non-hazardous solid wastes. The approval is also needed for projects to transfer non-hazardous solid wastes, and other waste management and handling projects.

Moreover, the ministry is working with the Sultan Qaboos University in the preparation of a draft study map of land degradation in the Dhofar Mountains and the provinces of North and South Asharqiya and Green Mountain. The aim of this study is to prepare the vegetation map of the Sultanate and ascertain the sites affected by desertification and take measures.

Last year, the Ministry floated a tender for the establishment of a Center for Environmental Information in Qurum, Muscat. This center will collect and display environmental, economic and social data and information related to the marine environment, the trees and the region’s unique biodiversity. The center will also train national cadres in various fields related to the conservation of marine environment in cooperation with the Japanese Agency for International Cooperation (JICA), with a view to involve the local community in the process of planning and management.

In addition, the ministry is currently preparing detailed drawings for the purpose of developing Jabel Akhdar’s nature reserve and landscapes in cooperation with the German University of Technology.

Besides, a tender will be floated for the establishment of a center for visitors and provision of other facilities atthe reserve. A one-stop services department will also be created at the ministry to render speedy, on-the-spot services to customers, including issuance of all types of environmental permits counters for payment of fees.

16 |

These can also be achieved by highlighting the environmental dimension ofdevelopment, and also through a commitment to the implementation of the national strategy for the protection of the environment along with Omani laws, rules and regulations and decisions related to environmental protection and pollution control in the Sultanate.

It is also important to follow the preparation, implementation, and modernization of the national strategy for the management of chemicals, and exercise control over the dealers trading in chemicals, and evaluate the environmental impacts of various projects for issuance of environmental permits. Beyond this, establishing and monitoring networks and environmental controls, as well as undertaking inspection field visits to the facilities, monitoring the implementation of laws and environmental guidelines, and booking environmental violations are also mandatory.

A sophisticated lecture hall has been established at the Ministry, to host lectures and discussions onenvironmental issues and green topics forthe benefit of business and industries, students, civil society institutions and associations, and volunteers.Scientific, technical and administrative training/ skill development courses for ministry staff can also be held here. Work is also underway to build a library of reference books on environment and related topics, scientific researches and studies. This library will be open to researchers, scholars and general readers.

The ministry’s initiatives are aimed at improving the environmental projects in the Sultanate, facilitating the administrative and procedural matters, and enhancing job performance. The ministry has also prepared a strategy for raising the environmental awareness among various segments of society, particularly the importance of preserving the environment and natural resources in Oman to achieve sustainable development of the entire community.

Evaluation of Environmental Impacts MECA, through the Directorate General for Environmental Affairs and its various departments, monitors the implementation of laws, rules and regulations, decisions, and programs of the National Strategy for the protection of Oman’s environment.The ministry is also engaged in the preparation of plans and programs to protect the environment in line with the national and international environmental objectives. By doing this, the ministry stresses the principle of balance between the requirements of development and maintaining the integrity of the environment within the framework of the fundamental goals of sustainable development.

These objectives are achieved by raising the efficiency of development projects across fields, alongside usingbetter environmental management, environmental inspection and controls as the primary tools to study the status of environment, evaluate environmental impacts, and take necessary measures to address them.

Furthermore, national reports are prepared on environmental agreements, environmental data and indicators, and sustainable development.

The ministry has given special attention to an early-warning project to monitor the radiation, particularly in affected areas, has been given special attention.

The Ministry is keen to protect the Sultanate from radioactive leaks which can happen from any external source. Besides, the ministry has chalked out a national strategy to protect citizens and environment from radiation hazards, notably at workplaces dealing with radioactive materials. Therefore, the ministry has installed an alarm system to monitor radiation in different regions in the Sultanate, and also a to monitor any radiation that may be transmitted to Oman’s atmosphere from neighboring countries that use nuclear energy or radioactive materials.

The alarm system can identify the levels of natural and industrial radiation, monitoring them on an ongoing basis

| 17

at stations in the central office of the ministry building.

Additionally, there are devices for measuring air variables through monitoring stations equipped to issue an early warning in case of increasing rates of natural radiation in the monitoring area, and provide periodic reports on the level of radiation in the Sultanate.

Environmental studies The ministry conducts many research studies in the field of cosmetics and children’s creams, by collecting samples from different stores in the governorate of Muscat, and analyzing them at the Chemicals Department. Presence and quantities of heavy metals, including mercury and lead are analyzed at specialized laboratories.

As per the findings and recommendations based on these studies, all concerned stakeholders will be involved to set appropriate legislative and regulatory rules for these products. In this connection, fruits and vegetables, especially imported ones, are also routinely collected and examined to detect the presence of chemical pesticides so that fruits and

vegetables with traces of banned chemical pesticides such as ‘ Endosulfan’ are not sold in the Sultanate. The report is sent to the National Sustainable Development agency which documents the significant progress made ​​by the Sultanate in the implementation of the development programs, including the Millennium Development Goals in the e conomic, social and environmental areas. The Ministry al s o updates the National Plan to Combat Oil Pollution by upgrading the plan at intervals. This is significant due to the steady increase in coastal installations such as ports and industrial zones, and oil tankers crossing the territorial waters of the Sultanate that may lead to oil leaks into the marine environment.

Combating Desertification The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs carried out several environmental projects aimed at preserving the Sultanate’s natural resources and using them in a sustainable manner, including nature conservation, protection of resources, and the preservation of biodiversity. The key projects include a project to combat desertification in Dhofar using fog. The implementation of this project started on 20 June, 2010 in Qairoon Hirti in Dhofar in collaboration with Mitsubishi Corporation.

There is another project to reclaim land affected by desertification in different governorates of the Sultanate, which is exposed to various forms of degradation and depletion, leading to decline in vegetation, fall in production, and the growing phenomena of soil erosion and drifting, mainly due to constant changes in land-use patterns attributable to urban development, indiscriminate cutting of trees and shrubs and overgrazing.

To reclaim and cultivate such lands, the ministry resorted to local tree planting, rehabilitating two sites of ‘Hakom’ in Dhofar governorate through the cultivation of 800 trees during 2011-2012. The ministry will begin rehabilitation of other sites

18 |

by preparing a detailed land degradation map in Dhofar, and afforestation of local wild plants in several areas including Qairoon Hirti in Dhofar, and at the nature reserve of Al-Sulail Garden in South Al-Sharqia governorate.

Beyond this, partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs has successfully reclaimed some sites including Ambrov in Rakhyut (where 454 trees were planted)and Meswair Zec in Al-Haq City. A further 317 trees were added at Hadjiv, to the existing 450 trees already planted. The total number of trees planted over the years in these locations is more than 1520.

The planted trees belonged to species such as Mitan, Al’atm, Taik , Ghdit, Cactus, Sghot, Enbur, Khot, Etbin, Sidr, Zrkin, Thor and Clit.

Work on other projects is underway in two other sites: Titam and Al-Haq City. One of them tackles desertification in Dhofar by using water collected from fog to irrigate the area.

Other projects are into re-using stored water to nurture local seedlings, covering the mountains with plants and vegetation, and supplying fresh water to the Salalah plain in the future.

New nature reserves The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs, through the Directorate General for Conservation of Nature, is set to announce sites for new nature reserves. Under royal decrees 16 nature reserves have been proclaimed: Dimanyat islands nature reserve, Al-Sulail Natural Garden, the turtles nature reserve in Ras al Hadd, Mount Samhan nature reserve, Al-Qurum nature reserve, the Nine Al-Khiran nature reserve in Dhofar Governorate , nature reserve of organisms and fungal in Al-Wasta Governorate. Jebel Akhdar mountain in al Dhakhiliya was also announced as a nature reserve under Royal Decree No. (80/2011) on August 17, 2011.

Meanwhile, an announcement is expected soon with regard to two new nature reserves to protect seabirds in Al-Wasta province, together with another nature reserve to protect the Arab caribous in the south of Al-Sharqiya province. The Ministry is keen, on an ongoing basis, to identify regions that require protection and conduct necessary studies for declaring these areas as nature reserves.

Department of marine and coastal environments The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs carries out a number of projects aimed at preserving the marine environment and sensitive coastal sites.

One of them works on nurturing trees in Qurum area – thus implementing the Ramsar Convention of wetlands that attract birds --to which the Sultanate is a party. It is of great significance as the area is home to many marine organisms, in addition to being a site of great natural beauty. The ministry has been organising campaigns to plant trees in the Qurum area and also in many bays , such as Cherbtat Creek in Salalah, Al-Hagar Creek in Sur, Al-Har Creek in Masirah state, Zarf Creek in Duqm state , Al- wadiat Creek in Shinas state, and Ghawi Creek in Al Jazer state. In addition, the ministry follows up the status of creeks and bays to make sure that the trees were properly planted and not exposed to any negative effects leading to a deterioration of cultivated plants. The ministry also surveys various sites to identify those suitable for cultivation.

Department of coral reefs Due to its importance as sites of great biodiversity and bio - breeding and as safe havens for many marine organisms, the ministry organizes periodic campaigns to clean up the environment of coral reefs and beaches across the Sultanate, with the participation of concerned government agencies including the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Ministry of Tourism, the Oman Royal Navy and the Commandment of Police Coast Guard in addition to Oman Environment Society, and a number of diving clubs and individual volunteers.

During these campaigns, all kinds of wastes such as bags, plastic materials, neglected fishing equipment, marinas boats, nets and ropes are removed. Besides, the status of coral reefs is assessed and awareness campaigns on its importance and the need to protect them are planned and implemented.

Assessing the risks from climate change The world faces significant challenges related to climate change, rising temperatures, and the depletion of the ozone layer and its negative impact on all economic, social and political sectors, in addition to explosive population growth and lack of resources for economic and social development.

All these factors lead to a fast-paced increase in the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and its ill effects.

Based on recent scientific researches, it is estimated that the Earth’s ecosystems are in danger of severe degradation owing to factors listed above. Decline in vegetation, loss of biodiversity, shrinking of agricultural production and diminishing fish stocks and natural environments are just a few of the disasters. Furthermore, a decline in rainfall and a rise in the severity of droughts and storms all over the world are also causes for concern. In addition, lives and infrastructure in the coastal areas face severe risks from rising sea levels. | 19

Additionally, the ministry issues licenses to encourage projects to adopt appropriate technologies to minimise energy consumption and improve efficiency, and also to adopt afforestation and cultivation of plants suitable for the local environment. The objective is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the environment surrounding the project. Consequently, the Directorate General for Climatic Affairs was tasked with undertaking these projects at the ministry overseeing the assessment of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects under the Kyoto Protocol, as well as under the ministerial decree no. (30/2010) to regulate the issuance of approvals for CDM projects under this Protocol.

All this calls for taking necessary measures to assess and monitor the risks and impacts of climate change, ozone layer depletion, and estimating the vulnerability of environmental and social sectors and systems, and aim for solutions. Hence, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs - represented by the Directorate General of Climate Affairs - has adopted an environmental strategy capable of dealing with environmental challenges. This strategy has formulated plans, legislations, and measures to deal with these issues, with a view to integrate the climate requirements into existing national plans and measures.

One of the most important programs and projects implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs relates to the assessment of the risks of climate change and ozone layer depletion and estimating the vulnerability of the concerned sectors, ecosystems and social systems. Studies on sustainable development and infrastructure projects are

20 | 

also part of it. The project essentially looks at formulating appropriate strategies to respond to the consequences of climate change and ozone layer depletion, and measures to control greenhouse gas emissions in different sectors in the Sultanate, considering local conditions and consistent with the objectives of sustainable development.

A ministerial decree no (30/2010) was issued on August 21, 2010 regarding the regulation of issuing approvals for projects related to the Clean Development Mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol. Moreover, ministerial decree no (18/2012) was issued on March 4, 2012 concerning the regulations at the Department of Climate Affairs. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs, since May 2012, has been issuing licenses for projects in the Sultanate, only after assessing the greenhouse gas emission levels and other environmental impacts resulting from the activities and establishment of these projects.

Furthermore, procedures related to import licenses for substances that deplete the ozone layer in the Sultanate have been formulated in order to meet Oman’s commitments to honour agreements to protect ozone layer. In 2007, Montreal Protocol on ozone layer depleting substances was amended to accelerate the phase-out of HCFC materials so as to gradually start freezing their use from 2013, then reduce by10% and 35% by 2015 and 2020 respectively and a total elimination by 2030.

The ministry has taken several measures, including issuing quotas for the import of the ozone layer depleting substances, beginning in 2012, and the amendment to the regulation on the control and management of the ozone layer depleting substances, in order to achieve the stated objectives.

Additionally, the Ministry also oversees the collection and update of the data on industrial projects that require environment licenses, the preparation of a database on the initiatives by the private sector in the field of climate and environment in terms of adherence to the stipulated laws and regulations, use of technologies to reduce energy consumption and adopting renewable energy applications, together with plans to address the effects of climate change, and phase out ozone layer depleting substances.

Oman LNG Efforts at Environmental Preservation

O

man LNG was awarded the International Standardization Organisation (ISO) 14001 and 9001 certifications in 2001 for its world-class environmental management practices and performance.

Over the years, the company has successfully retained these certifications.

It is noteworthy that Oman LNG has always applied rigorous safety and environmental standards to all its activities and on 27th February achieved 10 million man-hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI).

Oman LNG is committed to continually improve its environmental management system to properly control its activities, products and services that do or can give rise to significant environmental impacts.

Amongst others, the company has applied the Shell Multivariable Optimisation Controllers (SMOC), resulting in significant improvements to the plant’s thermal efficiency, thereby reducing emissions.

Oman LNG performs close monitoring of its potential impacts on the environment. Online analyses are

complemented by (own or external) laboratory analyses.

Marine studies assessing the ecological health of the coastal environment in the vicinity of the Oman LNG plant are conducted on a regular basis. On a monthly and annual basis, Oman LNG compiles an extensive report on its environmental performance and shares it with local and national authorities to demonstrate its compliance to all relevant regulatory requirements. Additionally, it organises Green Table Meetings with the relevant sections of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs discuss ongoing issues and projects.

Beyond its plant Oman LNG’s commitment to the environment goes beyond its plant. The company champions waste management in the local community and is the major fund contributor to the relocation of Sur’s landfill site to a modern and fit location, a waste compaction plant and the restoration of the old site.

The Sultanate of Oman hosts the world’s largest breeding beaches for Greenback Turtles. In furtherance of preserving these beaches, Oman LNG led the funding of the Turtle Research and Exhibition Centre at Ras Al Jinz, which attracts

scientists from around the world and tourists under careful guidance of trained rangers. The activities at the Ras Al Jinz play a critical role in preserving this particular specie of turtles which are threatened by extinction due to continuing urbanisation in many parts of the world.

The company is also one of the Environmental Society of Oman’s (ESO) largest single sponsors. ESO’s activities range from Indigenous Species protection to the championing of waste reduction, reuse and recycle programmes, the latest being the campaign to reduce plastic bags throughout Oman. | 21

Towards preserving the country’s famed natural environment including, beach locations in Sur, Jalan Bani Bu Ali and Masirah, Oman LNG recently funded the acquisition of three beachcleaning tractors. The tractors will be used for maintaining the natural beauty of the shores-freeing the beaches of discarded bottles and cans, nets and paper-bags, as well as other litter

22 | 

either dumped by beach-goers or debris from the sea, washed upon the shore by waves, as part of the normal tidal ebb and flow of ocean waters.

Since its establishment, Oman LNG has shown world class environmental management practices and performance and

is committed to continual improvement in this field as part of its ISO 14001 certification. The shareholders and management are fully committed to continuing to seek ways to respond creatively and effectively to the changing needs of our great country, blessed by the leadership and and guidance of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos.

Nama Group (Formerly Electricity Holding Group)

E

lectricity Holding Company is a closed joint stock company wholly owned by the government of Oman. It was established to support and implement the government’s privatization policies for the Electricity Holding Group, including encouraging private sector participation in electricity and related water projects in Oman, management of the government investments in the sector and provision of central services to its subsidiary companies.

With nearly 800,000 (and growing) customers in Oman, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring that electricity is secured for the Sultanate, through generation, transmission, distribution, supply, procurement, and more recently, training for the utilities sector.

Ghada al Yousef,

Executive

Manager

(Group

Communications & Sustainability) at EHC talks about EHC’s newly launched Sustainability Policy.

EHC, as a holding company, is now looking after

sustainability

activities

through

a

centralisedapproach,however, there were many conservation awareness campaigns which have been implemented from a number of years now through the distribution companies. Can you please comment on the future plans in this area?

Due to the nature of our business, we have a combined social, environmental and economic responsibility in implementing such conservation awareness campaigns.

The awareness campaign will remain to be one of our main activities under the new policy and plan with an objective to reduce carbon for every MW produced.

This reduction can be achieved through a number of initiatives, one being conservation awareness campaigns to reduce carbon emission on the consumption end, and we have also introduced a new combined cycle to reduce the carbon emission on the generation end, and since 2013, we have introduced a clear renewable energy plan through our subsidiary Rural Areas Electricity Company. In that plan, we are committed to including a renewable generation capability of 25 % for all new rural generation requirements.

Energy conservation can produce far reaching benefits and we are committed to raise awareness about our role along with the public’s role to reduce the burden on government subsidy, change the culture of energy consumption and effectively reduce our carbon emissions to reduce our environmental impacts.

Ghada al Yousef Executive Manager | 23

Can you brief about EHC’s sustainability model?

Our sustainability model is designed around the Triple Bottom Line approach and encompasses social, economic and environmental dimensions, with clear objectives and measures that can enable us to build on benefits on an annual basis.

The Sustainability Policy governs the annual fund of OMR 0.5 million which has been split against all three pillars.

The Sustainability is driven by the Sustainability Committee which includes a mix of executive and non-executive advisors who bring a wealth of knowledge across various pillars and industries.

What is the status of the new Sustainability Policy and Plan and what are your priorities?

We have signed up with two NGO’s as part of our economic and social activities.We are currently working on the environmental activity which will be announced soon.

For the economic activity, we have signed up with Injaz Oman for OMR 100,000 to support the ‘Sharikati’ programme for period of one academic year and committed to providing 150 volunteers from all our subsidiaries. We are delighted that we have effectively become the largest contributor to Injaz in the Arab region through the combined financial and volunteering support. Through the ‘Sharikati’ programme and with the support of our volunteers, we are hoping to encourage the students in participating in relevant projects that can further grow in country value projects for the electricity sector and introduce new projects that can further support our environmental pillar and objectives.

For our social pillar, we have signed two agreements with the Omani Volunteering Network “Tawon” who will be supporting

24 |

EH Group’s volunteering competition ‘Wiyakum’ which is aimed at promoting the culture of volunteering. Another project was signed up with Tawon to help the Group introduce the culture of volunteering amongst employees through the provision of focused induction programmes, volunteering passports and calendars across all three sustainability pillars.

Therefore, the social pillar’s main objectives is to encourage EH Group staff volunteer participation in all sponsored programmes and activities. As a Group, we will encourage our staff to spend at least one work day per annum on volunteering.

Majis Industrial Services OMAN’S PIONEERING INTEGRATED WATER SOLUTIONS COMPANY Majis Industrial Services (Majis) was established in 2006 with a vision to provide consistently reliable eco-friendly water services to the fast growing industrial port and special economic areas in Sohar. It has since grown to become the Sultanate’s foremost one-stop integrated water solution provider. With the Government of Oman as the sole shareholder, Majis plays a unique and strategic role by providing reliable, cost-effective and environmentally friendly water utility solutions.

The company’s multi-national team of experts (without compromising Omanization which is at 80%) are continuously assessed and trained to provide world class services.

Strategic alliance Majis forged a strategic alliance with Azaliya (a subsidiary of Veolia Water, a global leader in the design, construction and

operation of water and wastewater services facilities), towards offering O&M services. Veolia’s worldwide resources and expertise are being utilized at Majis to provide tailor-made solutions across the industrial spectrum using latest technologies.

Majis and the Community Majis has established strong partnerships with universities in order to support and assist academic research departments in the near future. In addition, a number of pre-graduate students are regularly provided on-the-job training at Majis facilities.

Corporate Social Responsibility Majis has cultivated a strong Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) framework as a tool to positively impact businesses and communities. Majis views CSR as part of its working practice aimed at addressing social issues by creating shared values between its business and community, leading to a sustainable environment.

SERVICES Majis operats one of the largest seawater pumping stations in the Gulf region with a capacity of 334,000 m³/hour. On completion of the upcoming second sea water pumping station project, Majis will have the capability to provide an uninterrupted supply of more than 600,000 m³/hour of seawater for non-contact process cooling and desalination applications to the industries in the Sohar Industrial Port Area.

Majis has an extensive potable water network with a delivery capacity of 8,000 m³/day. It supplies potable water for drinking purposes and for use as fire hydrants.

| 25

Majis, in line with the Government of Oman’s policy, collects and treats industrial effluents from various industries providing retreated water for irrigation and industrial uses. Its 3,000 m³/ day Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) has a dedicated sewerage collection network, collecting and treating industrial as well as domestic waste water produced within SIPA and SFZ.

We take care to ensure that the company’s business objectives are not achieved at the expense of sustainability. We realise that protecting the environment, and offering a healthy and safe environment for our employees, contractors and the public is the only sustainable and cost effective way of conducting our business.

walls metallic gladding has optimized electricity consumption.

Also Majis building design ensures that direct sunlight doesn’t enter inside, and maximum sunlight is reflected outward, the interior temperature is more or less cool. This minimizes the need to use air conditioners. We also use sun tubes to make best use of natural sun light, wherever and whenever possible.

Majis also owns and operates a process water network with a delivery capacity of 40,000 m³/d.

In what ways Majis preserves the environment while going about its business?

What are the other green initiatives at Majis?

INTERVIEW WITH CEO

In the case of cooling water solutions, both the inlet and outlet are strictly monitored in order to safeguard the fragile marine ecosystem. Effluent treatment is a key component of our Process water solutions. Both domestic and industrial waste water are treated at Majis plants.

What about the environmental impacts of Majis operations?

As far as Majis operations go, its negative eco impacts are minimal and quite within controllable limits. We use the bestin-class European technologies that are highly eco-friendly.

Natural resources are on the decline globally. How does Majis contribute toward protecting Oman’s natural resources?

Mr. Ahmad Saif al Mazrouy How successfully has Majis Industrial Services Co. integrated environmental care into its vision and operational policy?

Environment is a key element of the visionary and operational framework of Majis Industrial services. In fact, Majis’s vision is to provide sustainable, eco-friendly water solutions that surpass customer expectations. All of Majis projects and initiatives do a fine balancing act of protecting the environment while generating profit through offering water solutions.

26 |

As mentioned earlier, we treat both industrial effluents as well as domestic waste water, and the treated water is supplied to various industries for reuse. This way, exploiting the Sultanate’s groundwater is highly minimized. Moreover, our entire office is being transformed into a paper-less office through extensive use of e-office solutions. This helps reduce cutting trees to make paper.

As far as energy consumption goes, where does Majis Industrial Services stand?

The design of Majis office building allows for maximum diffused sunlight to enter inside, double glassing and outer

Landscaping and tree planting are the other initiative on our part, contributing to a better environment. We have planted nearly 100 trees and saplings on our premises and are being taken care of. This will provide fresh and healthy air and bring down temperature. Trees are planted at our Plant premises as well. Beyond this, Majis plans to closely work with environmental agencies based in Oman such as the Environmental Society of Oman.

What’s your “green message” to the public?

Every effort, small or big, towards nurturing environment and natural resources is noble and is significant. Planting trees and conserving in the use of natural resources like water need to be widely promoted in the public domain. Every one of us is a stakeholder in environment, and every one of us must act as an agent of change.

At Majis, our employees and contractors are urged to comply with environmental regulations and implement eco-projects.

We have done activities such as beach cleaning and other green programs to keep our environment healthy and beautiful.

The message for the public is that on the environmental front, every step and every contribution, however little that may be, counts. Every one of us has a noble duty to protect our environment.

Omran

O

mran is the top-most tourism-related investment‚ development and management company in Oman, with a stated mission of creating memorable destinations and experiences‚ which deliver long-term benefits to local communities and the national economy‚ working in harmony with Oman’s environment and natural resources.

Also, investing in sustainable technologies and being a sustainable developer doesn’t necessarily mean a sagging bottom line. Of course no-one can wish away short-term financial impacts. But in the longterm it pays off. For instance the emerging trend is that more and more European and other tourists now prefer green buildings to ordinary commercial properties. So it makes perfect business sense.

How does Omran contribute toward establishing a sustainable tourism model in Oman?

Nasser al Maqbali Chief Operating Officer What are your views on sustainable development?

“Sustainability is not a choice. In fact it’s the only way forward. This essentially sums up Omran’s views on development. As an individual, and as a respresentative of Omran, I must behave as a responsible citizen, especially when it comes to environment.

We are proud to be the first tourism company in the Sultanate, and one of the few in the GCC, to have ISO 14001 accreditation for our environmental management systems.

We have an integrated management system by integrating three previously certified systems: ISO 9001:2008 for Quality Management System, ISO 14001:2004 for Environmental Management System and OHSAS 18001:2007 for Occupational Health and Safety Management System.

We undertake tourism projects only after getting Environmental Permits from the Ministry of Environment & Climate Affairs. Moreover, Omran does periodic environmental monitoring throughout the implementation phase, and after.

| 27

Also we adhere to the rules and regulations set by the Ministry of Tourism and get necessary approvals for our projects. Moving further we are now incorporating features aligned with the “Green Building” concept, and we are awaiting the Leading Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certifications issued by the United States Green Building Council (US GBC).

In addition, Omran recycles nearly 50 per cent of projectproduced wastes. This includes paper, wood, cans, plastics and steel. Our employees are encouraged to reduce, reuse and recycle, and follow waste segregation practices.

28 |

At the project sites too Omran stresses on reducing waste and recycling materials.

Can you comment on the technologies and innovations used by Omran to be pro-environment tourism development company?

Technology is important, but what is more important is the right mindset. A commitment to protecting and nourishing our environment. Some seemingly simple initiatives count a lot.

As mentioned above our projects follow the “Green Building” design concepts and follow guidelines leading to LEED

certifications by US GBC. Omran’s two properties -- the Musandam Resort and the Jabal Al Akhdar Resort –satisfy the LEED requirements to be certified in the silver category.

Also, we are a member of Oman Green Buildings Council & Oman society of engineers.

Moreover we have state-of-the-art sewage treatment plants, as also waste recycling plants at our properties. As a proenvironment company, Omran use solar energy at its properties wherever possible such as, water heaters and in some lighting systems.

What do international accreditations and certifications for Omran’s environmental management systems mean for the company?

Fundamentally those international recognitions boost our confidence to go ahead with our design and construction. The feeling of being on the right track is a morale enhancer. More importantly it creates trust among all our stakeholders and customers in Omran. It reaffirms our commitment to achieve zero or minimum harm to the environment, country, people, communities, contractors and any other stakeholders.

What are your comments on the Green buildings in Oman?

It is undeniable that Oman should strive for more green buildings. But the Middle East has its unique climate and environment, and mostly the Green building framework is set as per European standards, by European bodies. There is a need to factor in the unique topographical and environmental features of Oman/Middle East when talking about Green standards for this region.

What parameters make Omran eligible for LEED certification?

Our application is under processing. But we are expecting the certification to be approved and issued very soon.

About Omran’s environmental campaigns?

Last year we successfully held two environmental campaigns. One was in Jabel Akhdar among the local communities to raise awareness about the need to protect its environment. Regularly we launch many social campaigns like beach cleaning, recycling and more. Omran has allocated funds for environmental initiatives. But finance comes second, a commitment to and love for environment is what counts most. Through small pro-environment actions we can make significant positive impacts.

At Omran we develop strategic tourism projects which will bring substantial benefits to the national economy & local communities. We act as a partner of first choice for potential investors who wish to invest in our nation’s tourism boom. We also provide best practice management to the Government-owned hospitality assets.

omran.om | 29

Creating Possibilities ¾ Production & Publishing (Books, Directories) ¾ Design & Printing ¾ Events (Organizing & Marketing) ¾ Professional Photography ¾ Production of Documentaries

FUTURE MEDIA GROUP ADVERTISING & PUBLISHING

P.O Box 1370, P.C,130, Athaiba,Sultanate of Oman Tel.: +968 24613221, 24614575 • Fax: +968 24614559 www.future-oman.com

Sezad The Special Economic Zone Authority At Duqm is considered to be a new lifeline for Development in Omn Strategic port, Dry Dock, Oil Refinery and a variety of projects are drawing the Future of Duqm area Execution of various tourism projects will contribute to makeing Duqm a distinctive tourist destination throughout the year Strict measures to are on preserve the environment, and create buffer zones to separate industrial areas from residential ones Many projects are being executed at Duqm Special Economic Zone Authority in different sectors like infrastructure, tourism, industry and trade and logistics.

DSEZA is looking forward to be one on of the best contributors to the GDP of the Sultanate, in addition to its contribution in providing jobs opportunities and in the development process of the Governorate of Al Wosta which is located 550KM from Muscat.

The most distinguishing feature of the Duqm special Economic zone is that, it has many competitive advantages which qualify it to become a regional hub for maritime transportation, and a logistic gate for the Gulf areas located on the Arabian Sea shores and Hormuz Strait. It can be also developed as an ideal location compound for the

petrochemical industries that rely on secure supplies of oil and natural gas. More over it is a potential area to be an integrated industrial base for the transformative industries, as natural raw materials are available in the Governorate of Al Wosta. In addition to that, this part of the coast of Oman, is rich in fish resources and it is a major source of fishing for the local and regional markets. Opportunities for fisheries farming and industries are aplenty as well.

The region has a mild climate in summer and winter, and is characterized by stunning deserts and beaches which help it to become an important tourist destination frequently visited by people from inside and outside of the Sultanate.

The total area of Duqm Special Economic Zone is about (1777) square kilometers, while that vast space allows to the DSEZ an implementation of a wide range of projects and attracting huge investments in various sectors. Its master plan includes a number of diverse areas as it is providing different services through many of its projects such as: Port of Duqm, Dry Dock in additional to undistracted projects like, the complex of oil Refinery and petrochemical industries, heavy, medium and small industries states, and the tourism area, housing area, Duqm Airport, the logistics services area, and the fisheries industry area which includes the fishing port. While each of these areas will has direct and indirect contribution to the national economy of Oman.

The tourism and environmental projects have received great attention by Duqm special Economic Zone Authority, as the tourism projects aim to provide various facilities to investors and tourists who come to the area, while the environmental projects designed to preserve the purity of the environment to remain far from pollutants despite the implementation of mega-projects in the field of petrochemical and heavy industry.

A study was carried out by Duqm special Economic Zone Authority through some of international expert houses has expected the increment of the demand for hotel and hospitality services at Duqm in the next twenty years. It indicated that, the area will need for (5) to (8) hotels during | 31

the coming period . While another study has been carried out by the Port of Duqm Company predicted that, the area will be able to attract cruises and ships of tourists in the future, especially two main types of tourisms, one is the business tourism and the other is the recreational and environmental tourism.

With the growing importance of the expected role of the tourism sector and its facilities in achieving the aspirations and the expectations of the local citizens and in order to keep up with growth in the other sectors in the region, The special Economical Zone Authority At Duqm has prepared a plan for an rachitic design to develop the the tourism, commercial and services area within the urban spaces of the modern Duqm City and the coastal strip. According to this project many investment sites of varying sizes will be available build hotels and beach resorts, as the Commission has worked to improve access to the area through the completion of construction and operation of Duqm regional Airport, while the SEZA has celebrated in July 23, 2014 by the early operation of the Duqm Airport, which its trips was being increased to (3 ) weekly flights between Muscat and Jaloni Airport, and to (4) flights between Muscat and Duqm Airport, creating greater choice for investors and workers in the Governorate of Al Wosta . Thus, the local citizens who have benefited greatly from the flights between Muscat and Jaloni since its launched in November 2012 and they will benefit more from the operation Duqm Airport that will increase the number of flights linking Muscat and Governorate of Al Wosta.

The Authority also operates within the framework of its interest in the tourism sector to complete the construction and operation of quay of cruise ships and Shipping ships within the government pier of the port of Duqm which is expected to be launched in early months of 2016. In the mean time the Authority has developed programs of promoting and marketing tourism opportunities of the area in order to highlight its importance internally and regionally .And it planed to set partnership contracts with tour operators at the local and regional levels so as to increase the number of tourists to the area, that can contribute in raising the hotels occupancy rates.

32 |

At the time being there are many hotels and resorts has been constructed at Duqm, such like Crowne Plaza Hotel, a hotel of 4-star, Al Madina hotel a (3) Star hotel . The both two hotels belong to Omran Tourism Development Company, as the MB group has built Park Inn which includes chalets, suites and restaurants, and the are expected to start their operations during the this year. Al Madina Real Estate company is executing now an integrated tourism project includes commercial center, hotel apartments, residential complex and a golf course at a cost of 70 million Rials . This project will be implemented in four phases.

Wajihat Al Duqm City is considered as one of the most prominent residential projects in the area, while its first phase has been launched during this year, which being built by Duqm Development Company, the wholly owned by the Omani Government . The first stage of the project consists of (344) residential units, playgrounds, gyms and various facilities, as the company is currently working on the implementation of the second phase, which expected to be completed in 2017, it includes different variety of residential units,commercial center and other sports and recreation facilities worth of 60 million Rials. Furthermore, The Renaissance Services Company is developing a vocational housing project, which consists of apartments complex can accommodate about 10 thousand people . the capital cost of the project is about 38 million Omani Rials and it is expected to be completed in 2015.

At a time when the Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm is focusing on attracting investors in the to implement some mega-projects in the fields of oil, gas and petrochemical sectors, it also emphasizes the protection of the environment so that the planed projects not affect the environment in any way, while the Royal Decree No. (119/2011) have announced the creation of Special Economic Zone Authority at Duqm, which is the authorized body for issuance the environmental permits and to take the necessary actions to protect the environment, to control the pollution and protecting the drinking water there from contamination. So the Authority’s management plan for the environmental affairs always considers the environment in any preparation of master plan for the area in order to separate the

industrial areas from residential areas too and to create buffer zones between the them, in addition to ensure its commitment by the environmental standards, and by the proper handling of liquid, solid and gaseous waste that may resulted from the operations of these projects through a number of actions.

The Authority is currently implementing a survey on the environmental situation of the special economic zone at Duqm and its surroundings in order to provide an integrated data base for all environmental aspects in Duqm. The study aims to understand the complete environmental situation of the area and its surroundings, which will help to facilitate better planning and making the right decisions in the field of comprehensive planning for the area.

The embedding side for burying houses waste and the construction debris is considered as one of the key projects for Oman Environment holding Services Company “BEAH”, which is studding the region’s needs in this regard, that based on the Royal Decree No. (46/2009) which is entrusted to the company “BEAH” the management and treatment of waste in all areas the Sultanate, while the domestic wastewater treatment plant - a modern station carried out by the Ministry of Regional municipalities and Water Resources is receiving the domestic wastewater and handling its treatment too.

The implemented projects for the purposes of the environmental protection include building of a station to receive waste oil from ships, while the station has been established within the project of the Dry Dock in order to receive treat and re-use of waste oils generated by ships which are visiting the area . A station for the hazardous disposal of the ships being repaired in the same Dry Dock has been established too, as the same station is burning the dangerous waste by safety process within the project of the Dry Dock.

In addition to these efforts, the Authority has included the agreement signed with the central utility company,which can provide treatment for the industrial waste on a sound commercial basis.

omifco

O

man India Fertiliser Company SAOC (OMIFCO), a joint initiative by the governments of Oman and India, was established in 2003 at the Sur Industrial Estate as a modern world-class factory producing ammonia and urea. OMIFCO is owned 50% by Oman Oil Company SAOC (OOC), and 25% each by the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) and KrishakBharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO).

The company’s vision is to become an internationally recognized model for major chemical and fertiliser manufacturers based on its achievements and standards in the fields of quality, health, and safety and environmental protection, community relations as well as operational performance.

The project has an environmental monitoring system network which associated with the factory’s operating system. This system is working around the clock to monitor the gaseous emissions resulting from the plant, the discharges to the marine environment, whereas environmental performance reports are sent on a monthly basis to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs to provide the concerned authorities with the extent of its performance and commitment.

Environmental commitment and CSR

OMIFCO Achievements in HSE management:

Oman India Fertiliser (OMIFCO) project was selected, designed and constructed after conducting in-depth environmental studies on the environmental impacts of all its project facilities and operations, with a focus on gaseous emissions resulting from the operation and the expected effects on the marine environment from the discharge of cooling water facilities and jetty. The company has committed itself to choose, implement and operate its plant through international eco-friendly specifications and standards by selecting the best manufacturing technology and most appropriate available at that time which was designed to mitigate the expected environmental risks on air, soil, marine environment and ambient.

OMIFCO has made many achievements in safety and occupational health and environment. One of the most important achievements to be mentioned in the field of safety is that no serious life-threatening incident is recorded during the last nine years of its operation and that was resulted from the cooperation and commitment between all parties involved in operation, implementation and manufacturing process. It has also achieved a distinctive environmental performance within the environmental limits applicable locally and globally in management of gaseous emissions from all sources in addition to the efficiency of its operating and control systems of cooling water and its port of export and it’s the effects on the

marine environment is one of the most important environmental achievements.

In its efforts to be a globally recognized company, OMIFCO has initiated a review of all applicable regulations and instructions in order to get the global ISO Certification and this has been reflected in receiving the ISO Certification in 2010 in its following systems: Occupational Health and Safety Management System OHSAS 18001

| 33

OMIFCO views CSR as crucial obligation toward its surrounding environment and local community, and has adopted a sustainability management system that integrates management of economic, environmental and social performance, with the aim of delivering value to all the stakeholders including the environment.

OMIFCO’s community investments strategy ensures strategic utilization of its financial and human resources so as to maximize benefits for the community. It has identified four priority areas of investment, where environmental stewardship figures prominently, in addition to human resource development, preservation of culture and heritage, and enhancing quality of life.

Environmental Management System ISO 14001 Quality Management System ISO 9001 OMIFCO won the first winner of His Majesty’s Cup for the best five factories in 2009 as a result of its commitment to apply the best practices in HSE, administrative and financial systems and its commitments to Omanisation policies and other local requirements.

OMIFCO has launched a project to plant more than 100 palm trees in Khor al Bath area associating with Sur Municipality. It has planted 150 palm trees and a number of ornamental trees along the road leading to OMIFCO. Also it boasts a 14,000 sq-m garden at its site populated by 200 palm trees, 250 nonpalm trees, and 1500 ornamental trees.

While itsammonia plants useHalderTopso Technology (which includes CO2 removal licensed by GiammarcoVetrocoke) the two Granulated Urea Plants useSnamprogetti Technology (Urea Synthesis) and Hydro Fertilizer Technology (granulation); these technologies help keep OMIFCO’s eco-impacts to the very minimum.

34 |

The Ras al Hadd Health Center is another significant community project supported by OMIFCO. In addition, it has signed an agreement with the Omani Association for the Disabled to fund and provide compensatory equipment and medical aid to the needy.

Significantly, OMIFCO’s budget allocation to support various community projects increased from 1% of net profit seven years ago to more than 3% as of today.

Cell Project The cellproject is another highlight of its CSR program.

OMIFCO launched the cell program in 2012, as a business accelerator and incubator project.It identifies and provides seed financing to qualified Omani entrepreneurs; and is the first such private sector initiative in Oman. Specifically, the cell provides practical training and mentoring and much needed grant capital for participating entrepreneurs during the multiphase project. The cellmembers are coached and monitored regularly to help ensure their success.

To ensure adherence to best practices and effective skills

transfer to the CELL team, OMIFCO has partnered with Inspired Solutions, a leading SME consultancy in Oman, and Al Jazeera Training.

CellholdsEntrepreneur Boot Camps, where participants are provided intense training on a number of key areas related to entrepreneurship. Already 60 Omani entrepreneurs have been trained under the cell program, in batches of 30 each over the last two years.Cell grants range from OMR 1,000 to OMR 10,000. Most established businesses will be eligible for higher amounts, with start-ups beginning with lower amounts.

Omanisation Omanisation of its workforce has been OMIFCO’s major concern from the day of its establishment. Through a host of skills development programs and recruitment drives, it has achieved more than 70% Omanisation at OMIFCO, double the figure when it commenced operations in 2006.

Oman Aluminium Rolling Company OARC: Industrial titan with a green commitment

O

man Aluminium Rolling Company LLC (OARC), owned by Takamul Investment Co., is one of the largest producers of multipurpose aluminium sheets in the Sultanate with an annual capacity of 140,000 tons. Commercial production has started in the first quarter of 2014.

As a world-class light guage aluminium sheet rolling company, how do you assess the technology and processes involved in the operations?

OARC, by the very nature of its operation and product portfolio, is set to become very close to the hearts of the people of Oman, as they are sure to see, use or interact with aluminium frequently in their daily lives, in its various avatars as window blinds, food foils, ceiling panels, beverage cans, building and construction materials and more.

OARC is equipped with state of the art technology in the aluminium rolling industry. The plant has an extremely high level of automation requiring employees with specialised technical skills to operate them. Our processes will allow us to produce the highest quality aluminium rolled products available in the market.

Apart from catering to the industrial needs of the Sultanate, OARC has plans to export the sheets to the Middle East countries, Asia, Europe, Australia, and North and South America.

The plant meets the latest environmental and safety standards, and is equipped with class-leading green technologies.

Ron Marchbanks, CEO

| 35

Can you comment on the quality certificates and awards bagged by OARC, if any, for projects supporting a better environment?

We are only in the initial stages of operating a new facility, and as such we haven’t had the opportunities to achieve awards yet. I’m confident, though, that in the years to come you will see OARC’s name on the list of environmental and quality awardees.

What are the environmental impacts of the company’s operations?

Our products are made of aluminium which is the most recyclable metal in the world. Aluminium is a metal that will not be downgraded at all when recycled, while paper, plastic etc become lower grade when recycled. So our operations are clean.

However, the processing generates wastes such as paper, steel, cardboard, wood, waste oil etc, which are all collected separately and sent for recycling to minimize landfill waste.

We even collect and store water that is contaminated by oil in the process, and the oil is reclaimed and water treated for reuse.

Can you brief about OARC’s environment policy?

We have combined our environment policy with our Health and Safety policy to create an integrated OARC EH&S policy.

Its objective is to ensure that all of OARC’s activities are in compliance with all EHS regulations while providing a safe and healthy workplace for our employees, contractors and other third-parties on our site.

It is OARC’s intention always to be a responsible corporate citizen with respect to our community, employees and shareholders.

36 |

In summary, all of our equipment and processes are designed to meet or exceed environment regulations. We are fully committed to ensure that we function in such a way that we support our community and make it better as a result of our operations.

What are the perceived challenges in implementing the OARC EH&S policy?

As with all policies anywhere else, this must become part of our employees’ responsibilities and daily tasks. We teach all OARC team members that protecting our environment is as important as following health and safety guidelines and striving for productivity and profitability. The challenge obviously is to incorporate this into the work culture.

In brief, incorporating environmental protection into OARC work philosophy is a highly prioritized agenda at OARC. It

is not a separate activity for OARC employees. We have an EHS department with highly trained and skilled leaders and managers driving this process daily. We have successfully created a culture at OARC where environment, health and safety compliance is the collective responsibility of all employees.

Do you associate in any way with the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) or support any green initiatives in Oman?

As mentioned earlier, we are a startup, and at this point we have focused mainly on ensuring that we are internally an environmentally safe and sound firm. However, our CSR and EHS directors will certainly be working with the communities as well as organisations such as ESO in the future to further support the efforts in this very important area.

GALFAR

G

alfar Engineering and Contracting SAOG (Galfar) is Oman’s largest construction company with EPC capability in Oil & Gas, Roads & Bridges, Civil, Marine Infrastructure and Utilities and Service sectors operating in Oman, other GCC countries as well as India.

For over 42 years, Galfar has established itself as the “Preferred Partner in Development” in Oman. Galfar is the only construction company in Oman carrying out works in excess of USD 1 Billion consistently over the past several years. The Company has grown steadily over the last four decades, owns a fleet of more than 8000 equipment, employs a workforce of over 22,000 and also prides itself as the largest employer of Omani nationals in the Private Sector.

and sought after Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Operations & Maintenance and Project Management company in the region consistently delivering projects, providing value-added engineering, construction and service skills to customers for whom the quality of execution, efficiency and reliability are critical. Galfar is now a Public Limited Company listed in the Muscat Securities Market. The company has also been successful in creating an excellent track record in ensuring shareholder confidence.

The Company’s endeavor towards excellence in construction quality, safety, performance, employee satisfaction and social responsibility has enabled it to be the most trusted

In addition to the Sultanate of Oman, Galfar also has operations in Kuwait, India, and Libya and has associates in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

| 37

Plant a tree everyday.

For a cleaner, greener, cooler Earth.

Partner in Progress

Mazoon Environmental and Technical Services

M

azoon Environmental and Technical Services (METS) is an Omani based company established in 2008 to serve the community with environmental and biotechnological solutions and provide reliable chemical analytical services and environmental monitoring to the public and private sectors. METS believes in the importance of R&D where it currently working on an environmental biotechnological research in collaboration with University of Applied Sciences Bremen, Germany, and other academic institutes of repute. Part of this R&D project was supported by Oman’s Industrial Innovation Center.

Who are your major clients?

METS is headed by Rayan al Kalbani as its executive director.

She was recently honoured by the US Embassy in Oman for her induction into the Women in Science Hall of Fame of the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs of the US Department of State.

The great majority of our clients are from the industries sector, including ORPIC, Vale, Oman Cements and others. We have worked with PAEW on water monitoring projects and with Haya on water analysis and indoor air quality monitoring. Beyond this, we offered outdoor air quality monitoring services to ORPIC and Oman Cements.

As a segment-leading solution provider working toward ensuring a sustainable environment, what are your priorities?

What are the technologies and processes employed in your services including various analyses, environment monitoring and reporting, and biotechnology?

Quality of our work, ethics in dealings and transparency of operations have been our priority always.

Rayan al Kalbani, executive director

We follow best available international practices and where appropriate the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) norms for

| 39

the University of Applied Science Bremen, Germany, and now working with a promising collaboration with GUtech through the Industrial Innovation Center.

Can you describe METS’s association with Environment Society of Oman?

Though we haven’t had any project-based collaboration with ESO, we appreciate the great work done by them, and wish to associate with them in a meaningful way.

environmental monitoring such as analyzing the industrial emissions like gases and dust. All our chemical analyses and reporting are of international standard.

How significant are METS’ education programs, and what are the main objectives?

We are planning a few awareness campaigns by this year end at the Knowledge Oasis Muscat (KOM) lecture hall. In the past we had participated in a few workshops and events on environment, at KOM, and also the Gulf Eco – 2010, where apart from presentations on topic of relevance, informative CDs were distributed for the benefit of the participants. With the aim of “catching them young,” we conducted workshops in a few schools on environmental protection.

Moreover, as a Cooperate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, we allow students and researchers to use all the facilitates and resources available at METS. Selected fresh graduates are provided basic training in professional topics as well as employability skills and personality development.

How advanced is your R&D wing?

We believe in R&D as a means to enhance and refine our processes and analyses, and thus add more value to our services. Toward this we have a strong collaborating with

40 |

Can you comment on Oman’s environment in general? What are the major threats to Oman’s environment? What can be done to check environmental degradation?

Oman is still relatively clean and its environment is adequately taken care of. Air pollution from commercial activities and public traffic is an issue as is the plastic littering in picnic spots and beaches. People need to be educated about the need to keep Oman’s land plastic garbage free.

How do you think can the public be engaged in environmental matters?

Awareness campaigns are a good start. Also the young generation needs to be educated about it at the school and college levels.

How do you operate?

METS essentially offers a host of environmental services including chemical and biological analyses, environmental monitoring and reporting, and environmental bioremediation to our clients.

We have the know-how to do most of the analyses, however, if need be we collaborate with international labs on certain complex analyses, but in all the cases interpretation and reporting are done by our staff. We use a mix of classic as well

as advanced technologies and instrumentations such as for air quality monitoring, and use portable devices for indoors. Soon we will be having a state of art technology mobile station for outdoor ambient air monitoring.

METS is a pioneer in industrial stack (chimney) emissions monitoring. We are also highly competent in noise mapping and monitoring. We follow USEPA guidelines for industrial gas and dust monitoring. Bio-remediation as a process of cleaning up contaminated water and soil is another major field where we have acquired the best domain expertise, and it forms one of our core services.

Sohar aluminium

T

he industrial sector is the cornerstone of Oman’s long term development strategy. The Vision 2020 established for the period 1995 – 2020 aims to create a strong industrial sector that Oman can rely on for the future other than Oil. The creation of Sohar Aluminium came about as a result of this Vision.

With a clear mission to pursue ‘intelligent Omanisation’, Sohar Aluminium has set an invaluable precedent for other industrial units that are endeavouring to make a contribution to the development of the nationals in particular and the country in general.

Among the many firsts that the Company has achieved and many honours that it has brought to the country, the most glittering achievements are related to its remarkable efforts to implement the Omanisation policy.

Inaugurated in 2009, Sohar Aluminium has been awarded the fastest-nationalised company in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region. The Company was also selected as the best Company for two years in a row (2011 and 2012), and has been awarded the Excellence Award in Social Responsibility 2013 by the Arab Social Responsibility Organization.

Omanisation With Vision 2020 in mind, Sohar Aluminium is committed to attract, support and retain Omani talents, thus achieving one of the highest Omanisation rates in the country in the industrial category with a 72% of Omanisation in its workforce.

“There are various on-going exercises, such as succession planning which aims to effectively increase the number of Omanis, particularly at higher levels. Out of our Omani employees, 81 per cent are from North Al Batinah.

This comes from the Company’s commitment to support the local community by providing direct job opportunities” says Faisal Al Balushi, Human Resources Administration Manager at Sohar Aluminium.

Job creation and SMEs Sohar Aluminium is playing a great role in creating job opportunities, especially for downstream industries and SMEs.

The total number of direct employees working at the Company is 988 and the industrial unit provides more than 2,000 indirect employment opportunities.

Also, as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are coming into a greater focus in the Sultanate, Sohar Aluminium has dedicated a great deal of its efforts to the development of these business units. Over 60% of the purchases come

| 41

from local SMEs, and the Company’s goal is to increase the localisation of purchases.

Sohar Aluminium business plan calls for 32% of aluminium production to be supplied to local downstream companies while exporting the rest. The Company’s commitment is to increase this local supply up to 60% within the coming three years.

“The effective utilisation of the collective technical experience has played a major role in the development and training of Omanis,” Al Belushi said.

The Company focuses a lot on creating sustainable business opportunities for Omanis and also help individuals set up their own businesses. There have been some medically challenged people whom have been helped start their own business as part of the Company’s CSR framework.

Free training Sohar Aluminium’s achievement in Omanisation and its outstanding performance is largely attributed to the practical training programmes offered by the Company.

Speaking to Times of Oman, Kevin Rees, Human Resources Development Principal at Sohar Aluminium, said that the Company provides training free of cost for Omanis who meet the basic qualifications.

The Company’s fully-fledged Training Centre is the only specialised centre in the smelter industry in the whole GCC and, according to Rees, roughly $2 million is spent on training every year with a plan to increase training spend in the future.

There are plans to upgrade the status of the training centre to an academy where research and development can also take place, he said, noting that an average of 70,000 training hours are offered per year.

42 |

Sohar Aluminium offers a number of short-term and longterm training courses at all levels in various areas, including mechanical, electronic, instrumentation, fabrication and safety.

“We have different programmes, including courses for supervisors and superintendents and leadership development programme to groom the trainees for managerial positions,” said Rees.

Summer programme Sohar Aluminium also offers a Summer Student Training Program (SSTP) for senior students in the various universities and colleges in Oman. This two-month program is designed to complement education with the workplace experience, welcoming students from various disciplines, including Engineering, Human Resources, Business Administration, Management, Information Technology and Finance. The students are selected based on their field of study and academic achievements.

The program aims to develop the work skills of Omani youth, and provide interns with real work assignments and a chance to engage with accomplished professionals who can offer their expertise into what the industry requires in the coming years, thus helping students plan their future aspirations.

No binding contract Sohar Aluminium employees who undergo training, such as multi-functional technician programmes, are not obliged to make a commitment to continue working for Sohar Aluminium after they complete their training course.

“We train them for the company, but even if they choose to work at another company, they will still be contributing to the country,” Al Balushi noted.

Sohar Aluminium gives job opportunities to all, yet grants priority to recruiting from within before recruiting externally.

Some employees started their job as supervisors and now they are managers, said Al Belushi, inviting those interested to join Sohar Aluminium and help build a better future for the country.

Challenges ahead Asked about the challenges facing the company, Hamad Al Jabri, Reduction Services Manager at Sohar Aluminium said “At the moment, the main internal challenge is the completion of the Pot-Relining Program. These pots, which are production generation units, have a 6-year life span, and they must be replaced in order to sustain and improve productivity and safety”. Hamad noted that the program is going very well and is anticipated to be completed on schedule this fall.

Another, external, challenge facing Sohar Aluminium is that its selling prices are largely set by international trading on the London Metal Exchange (LME). “The unpredictable LME price levels have been an on-going challenge, with the LME at historically low levels caused by market distortions arising from the global financial crisis a few years ago”, said Jerry van Alphen, the Chief Financial Officer of the Company. “The Company has and will continue implementing cost improvement initiatives and value creation ideas that significantly help offsetting the dips in LME prices” he added.

The Future Sohar Aluminium plans to increase its capacity in the next few of years and is confident that it will achieve its target, given its past track record.

The annual production capacity is 375,000 tonnes of aluminium, and there are plans to increase the annual production to 393,000 tonnes in the next few years through using an upgraded technology.

Sohar Aluminium was formed in September 2004 to undertake a landmark Greenfield aluminium smelter project in the Sultanate of Oman, and is jointly owned by Oman Oil Company, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC - TAQA and Rio Tinto Alcan.

| 43

For a more colourful world, we’re taking steps to be a little greener

At Jotun we constantly innovate protection. As we take continuous steps to better protect your property, we’re also taking even greater steps to better protect our environment. We call it Jotun GreenSteps - steps that make a significant difference to the world we all share. Steps like waste and hazardous materials reduction, product innovations that reduce energy usage, new processes that lower our carbon foot print and creating more products with lower volatile organic compound emissions. For more on Jotun GreenSteps, simply visit jotun.com, and learn about our journey towards a greener, more colourful world.

Jotun paints co. l.l.c.

Founded in 1926 in Norway, Jotun - one of the world’s leading paint manufacturers, established its subsidiary in the Sultanate of Oman in 1985 in association with the WJ Towell Group Jotun has been at the forefront in terms of developing products specifically suited to local conditions. Three decades of experience, has helped the company produce a variety of conventional and specialized coatings - each incorporating the latest technological developments while offering performance with economy - catering to the various product segments and demands of the different markets. Today, Jotun’s diverse product range includes Decorative, Protective, Marine, Floor/Concrete Protection, Powder Coatings and Intumescent Coatings, bearing a solid testament to the company’s reputation of being truly a single source solution for clients, consultants and contractors alike.

Jotun Oman has been awarded His Majesty’s cup three timesand received three certificate for the best company in Oman and has also Won Civil Defence Award for Best Fire Protection systems installed.

Jotun supplies paints and coatings that have been specially developed for iconic buildings and beautiful homes including international landmarks.

Jotun Oman has grown and established its leading positions in Oman by focusing on quality, brands and by building strong relationships with important and different customer segments Jotun is today known as a single source solution (SSS) provider.

| 45

46 |

Global Environment TOWARDS DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLY The number puzzle

T

In 1987 the World Commission on Environment and Development (Brundtland Commission) defined Sustainable Development as “Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Viewed thus, sustainable development refers to progress and growth across environmental, economic and social parameters without jeopardizing world’s natural resources.

Now sustainable development has become common jargon in business, economics and politics, but we are yet tohave an international development model that is really sustainable.

he burgeoning world population inevitably puts extreme strain on the planet’s resources. Food, pure water and air, energy, and other vital resources are all facing a severely lopsided demand-supply scenario.

WWF’s recent Living Planet Report says humanity’s consumption of natural resources including energy and food is 1.5 times more than Earth can regenerate.

“We are living as if we have an extra planet at our disposal.

We are using 50 per cent more resources than the Earth can provide, and unless we change course that number will grow very fast – by 2030, even two planets will not be enough,” says Jim Leape, Director General WWF International. He exhorts us all to play our part in keeping this planet “a living planet.”

As early as the 1970s, global organisations felt that the development model based on unrestrained exploitation of the planet’s resources could not go on forever. Several initiatives to suggest possible better alternatives were undertaken since then. The first mention of “sustainable development” appeared in a report published in 1980 by the International Union for Conservation of Nature titled World Strategy for Conservation.

| 47

While the Montreal Protocol, 1987, aims at reducing or eliminating the production and consumption of ozone-depleting chemicals, the subsequent amendment--the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol-- became the first of the multilateral environmental agreements with a financial structure in place to help its implementation.

The Multilateral Fund (MLF) has been partnering the World Bank since its establishment with the Bank assisting the MLF to preserve human health and environment by protecting the earth’s ozone layer.

The Montreal Protocol eventually aims at establishinga global commitment to stop producing and consuming ozone-depleting substances, which requires empowered partners for technical innovation, policy implementation and project management.

Price tag on environment?

It is high time we assess and put an economic value on the environment, say experts.Markets just grope in the dark or fail to tag the correct price or value of the services provided by environment. Existing pricingmodels consider only services like food, fuel or water,with possibly distorted pricings. The values of most of the ecosystem services are generally not reflected in markets.

A key challenge, say experts, will be how to integrate sustainability and human welfare as well as other environmental factors to arrive at real costs.

Investments in developing eco-friendly technologies are sure to have a profound impact, but sustainable development essentially being a political task, technology isbut one of the many key factors that produce significant levels of sustainability.

48 | 

Meanwhile at the international level brainstorming sessions continue, and we have quite a number of treaties, protocols and deals aiming to protect our environment.

Some of the key international developments in the field of environment are given below: The Vienna Convention and Montreal Protocol, 1987 The Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and its Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layerstrive to protect the Earth’s ozone layer. With 197 countries adopting it, they are the most widely ratified United Nations treaties.Significantly, the treaties haveachieved reductions of over 97% of all global consumption of controlled ozone depleting substances (measured in ODP tons).

The main objective of the MLF is to assist developing countriesthat are party to the Montreal Protocol with annual per capita consumption and production of ozone depleting substances (ODS) less than 0.3 kg to comply with the control measures of the Protocol. Currently, 147 of the 196 parties to the Montreal Protocol meet these criteria.

The Earth Summit, 1992 The Rio Earth Summit of 1992 attended by 152 world leaders recommended that all countries develop national sustainable development strategies, and the work continues with notangible results as yet.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, 1994 The Convention on Climate Change sets an overall framework for intergovernmental efforts to tackle the challenge posed by climate change. It recognizes that the climate system is a shared resource whose stability can be affected by industrial and other emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.

The Convention enjoys near universal membership. Latest information on ratifications of the Convention can be found here.

Under the Convention, governments gather and share information on greenhouse gas emissions, national policies and best practices, launch national strategies for addressing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to expected impacts, including the provision of financial and technological support to developing countries, and cooperate in preparing for adaptation to the impacts of climate change.

The Convention entered into force on 21 March 1994.

Kyoto Protocol,1997 The Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is an international treaty that makes it obligatory for industrialised countries to cut down greenhouse gas emissions. The treaty aims at stopping “dangerous” anthropogenic interference in the climate system.

The Protocol recognises that developed countries are principally responsible for the current high levels of GHG emissions in the atmosphere as a result of more than 150 years of industrial activity, and places a heavier burden on developed nations under the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities,” says its official website.

There are 192 parties to the convention, including 191 states (all the UN members, except Andorra, Canada, South Sudan and the United States) and the European Union.

The United States signed but did not ratify the Protocol and Canada withdrew from it in 2011.The Protocol was adopted by Parties to the UNFCCC in 1997, and entered into force in 2005.

As part of the Kyoto Protocol, many developed countries have agreed to legally binding limitations/reductions in their emissions of greenhouse gases in two commitments periods. The first commitment period applies to emissions from 2008-2012, and the second commitment period applies to emissions from 2013-2020. The protocol was amended in 2012 to accommodate the second commitment period, but this amendment has (as of January 2013) not entered into legal force.

Other Significant Multilateral environmental treaties include the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (Basel), Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (CCD).

The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Report, 2005 The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) report-2005, funded by the Global Environment Facility, the United Nations Foundation, the World Bank and others,states that humans have made unprecedented changes to ecosystems in recent decades through their attempts to meet growing demands for food, water and energy which whileenhancing the lives of billions, negatively impacted nature’s ability to supplypure air and water and to protect the planet from disasters.For instance many species are on the brink of extinction.

As revealed by environmental experts, our ecosystems are bound to fail ifour attitudes and actions driven by greed and unaccountability continue to prevail.

| 49

Natural resources are precious and finite, and to sustain and nurture them require coordinated efforts by governments, businesses and global organizations, resulting in pro-environment policy choices across areas asdiverse as investment, trade, subsidy, taxation and regulation, among others.

UN Initiatives Rio+20 Rio+20, the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in June 2012 asan international initiative toward a cleaner, greener, safer and more equitableworld.

UNEP FI Global Roundtable The Global Roundtable (GRT), the flagship biennial event of UNEP Finance Initiative that brings together high-level representatives from financial institutions, governments, regulators, civil society, academia and the scientific community to formulate action plans on sustainable finance, was last held in November 2013 in Beijing, China.

It essentially brainstormed on how to accelerate the integration of long-term, sustainable thinking into the financial sector’s decision-making processes.

Since 1994, the GRT has been held in 12 cities, including Cambridge, Cape Town, Chicago, Frankfurt, Geneva, London, Melbourne, New York, Oslo, Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo and Washington, D.C. Eco-assault continues…

Environmental degradation continues, despite all these protocols and treaties and a generally strong public awareness.

What went wrong? Studies point to perceptional errors like “sustainability is expensive to implement” and “it is a drag on development”, which delay or even freeze governmental initiatives.

Obviously underdeveloped and a few emerging economies don’t have the wherewithal in terms of infrastructure, ideas and human capacity to integrate sustainability into their development model. Some of them areeven quite skeptical about rich countries’ real commitment to sustainable development, and call for a more equitable distribution of environmental costs and responsibilities.

There also exists a line of thought that sustainable development may be taken up once under-developed countries graduate to developed status. However, irrespective of whether countries are rich or poor, emerging or developed, all countries are stakeholders in the environment and the time to act is now, argue environmental experts.

50 |

Middle East AND Environment

S

pread across 11 million sq-km, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is home to a little over 6% of world population. However, its share of global oil production (including natural gas) is significant and is set to touch 44 % (50 million barrel per day) by 2030 from the present 35%; and the region requires an estimated annual investment of 56billion USD in energy infrastructure over the period.

The Middle East development model primarily hinges on large-scale commercial exploitation of fast depleting and non-renewable oil and gas and other natural resources. The region is a thriving centre of mega industrial, infrastructural and tourism projects, which however put severe strain on the region’s environment engendering acute water scarcity, desertificationand related loss of arable land, soil erosion and high pollution, to name a few issues. With no solid economic diversification agenda, the region faces huge challenges in terms of environment and future development. Weak environmental institutions and regulations add to the gravity of the problems.

As a matter of fact, huge investments are being pumped into mega projects for developing the region’s infrastructure, industrial and agricultural sectors; however, projects and funds for conserving and enhancing the region’s delicate environment have been far and few.

Things are changing, though. Of late the region is witnessing a mass awakening of Green consciousness spurred by a raft

of policies and strategies at the government level – backed by significant monetary spending -- aimed at protecting and nurturing its environment, which in turn helped raise public awareness on green issues and nudged industries to adopt environment-friendly business strategies.

The governments across the Middle East now accord the highest priority to addressing the whole gamut of environmental issues and challenges, with a great sense of urgency by adopting a model of industrial growth based on sustainable development practices. While the Sultanate of Oman is going ahead with an eco-conscious development model, other countries of the GCC bloc are also pressing ahead with a series of measures to safeguard environment even as ensuring rapid economic growth.

Exemplary initiatives Countries of the region are making great strides on the environmental front.

The government of Oman has launched several environmental projects that include proper monitoring air and noise quality, effective waste management, optimal use of water, land degradation surveys, setting up a center for environmental information, preserving nature reserves, and above all, formulation of a national strategy to deal with radiation hazards and other environmental impacts.

Ecological footprints With economy cruising at high speeds at the expense of unsustainable consumption of natural resources, the Middle East countries -- especially Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE -generate the highest per capita Ecological Footprints, says a recent WWF report. More than 70% of these countries’ footprints are due to the consumption of carbon-intensive goods and services, as against the global trend where carbon contributes 54% of the world’s Ecological Footprint.

| 51

Two decades ago the Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for Environment (CAMRE) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretariat adopted the Arab Declaration on Environment and Development and Future Prospects (1991) and agreed on principles and directives for the protection and improvement of the environment in the region. It established the Joint Committee on Environment and Development in the Arab Region (JCEDAR) to build co-operation among regional and national organizations.

Even before that, the GCC member countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) approved environmental principles, in 1985. The GCC Secretariat now encompasses a regional Directorate of Man and Environment that holds regional surveys, assessments, education, and training and information exchange at the GCC sub-regional level, and also works with other regional and national institutions.

Moreover, Oman and the US have been cooperating as per an MoU between them on environmental regulations, environmental impact assessments, cleaner production systems, public participation in environmental projects, integrated water resources management, marine/coastal protection and more.

Elsewhere, UAE is developing (and adopting) international best practices to promote clean energy and smart use of non-renewable resources. Environment is strongly factored in UAE’s development vision plans such as the ‘UAE Vision 2021’ and the ‘Green Economy Initiative.’

Beyond this, UAE, a founding member of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), has readied a National Green Growth Strategy to unify all of its seven emirates’ environment policies and build on the Rio+20 UN Conference in Brazil on sustainable development.

52 |

The Green Growth strategy includes generating energy from waste and promoting public transport, and other measures that contribute toward a culture of sustainability in the core areas of the economy. The action plan promotes green development in sectors ranging from oil and gas, water and electricity, to transportation, buildings, waste management, and land use and agriculture.

UAE’s Ecological Footprint Initiative, on the other hand, looks to address the challenges in the efficient use of energy, and is working towards developing an energy efficiency standard for domestic lighting for the country. Socio-economic analyses to prioritise policies that help manage both the demand and supply of energy and desalinated water are underway.

Other countries in the region are also working towards creating a better environment and a growth model based on sustainability.

Other initiatives include the Regional Organisation for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME) and the Regional Organization for the Conservation of the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (PERSGA).

Beyond these several technical organizations dealing with regional environment, including the Arab Centre for Studies of Arid Zone and Dry Lands (ACSAD), the Centre for Environment and Development for the Arab Region and Europe (CEDARE), the Programme for the Environment of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the Gulf Area Oil Companies Mutual Aid Organisation, and the Marine Emergency Mutual Aid Centre, have been actively pursuing eco projects, providing technical assistance and responding to capacity building needs.

Universities, research bodies and NGOs too contribute to the protection of the region’s environment.

The United Nations has a strong presence in the region with the United Nations Environment Programme Regional

Office for West Asia (UNEP/ROWA), the Economic and Social Commission for West Asia (ESCWA), WHO’s Regional Centre for Environmental Health Activities, UNDP’s Capacity 21, and the UNEP-initiated Mediterranean Action Plan. The Mediterranean European Technical Assistance Programme (METAP), a regional partnership of the European Commission, the European Investment Bank, the World Bank, UNDP, and regional countries, marshals funds for technical assistance in order to strengthen environmental management and establish environmentally sound policies.

negative impacts on biodiversity such as the bleaching of its coral reefs -- sustainable development is not a choice, but the ONLY way forward for them.

Ida Tillich, Acting Director General of EWS-WWF, highlighted this when he said, “The GCC countries have a great opportunity to play a pivotal role demonstrating how countries can contribute to a low carbon future through adopting renewable energy options and prudently managing natural resources.”

Sustainability is NOT a choice

MENA: Environmental Issues and challenges

The Arab region being highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change -- including increasing temperatures, rising sea levels(putting coastal development and tourism in jeopardy), threatened food production and clean water resources, and

Major environmental problems in the MENA region include desertification, marine and coastal pollution, CO2 emissions and waste management (municipal waste, crop residue, asbestos waste, e-waste and medical waste).

Marine pollution Marine andcoastal pollution in the region requires special attention and policy intervention. Factors leading to marine pollutioninclude ships, offshore oil spills, dumping by fishing ships, municipal wastewater and industrial discharge (including desalination plant discharge).

Coastal pollution in the GCC countries is also significant and is driven by coastal zone degradation and habitat destruction, dredging and filling, and unsustainable use of coastal freshwater resources.

CO2 emission CO2 emission is another issue in the region that calls for immediate response.GCC countries together contribute about 2.4 percent of world CO2emissions, while their population is just 0.5 percent of the world’s population. Also, per capita emissions of all the GCC countries stand much higher than the average for high-income countries, according to Gulf Research Centre data.

Waste management Waste Management is currently one of the most challenging concerns faced by countries across the Middle East. The region’s explosivepopulation growth, urbanization, industrial and economic growth have led to an exponential increase in solid waste generation.

That the per capita solid waste generation in GCC region is one of the highest worldwide calls for concerted efforts. The gross urban waste generation from Middle East countries has risen to more than 150 million tons per annum posing serious environmental and health hazards.

| 53

Morocco has also invested in solar home systems (SHS) to electrify households in the rural areas, and has launched one of the world’s largest solar energy plant with an investment of USD 9billion: The Ain Beni Mather Integrated Solar Thermal Combined Cycle Power Station on 395 acres in the Jerada province of Morocco is the world’s first integrated gas and CSP (concentrating solar power) plant, and one of the most promising solar power projects in Africa. The plant combines solar power and thermal power, and has a capacity of 470 MWe.

Asbestos Waste With the MENA region witnessing spectacular growth, construction sector is booming. MENA countries import large amount of asbestos – around 20% of world demand -- for use in the construction industry, with Iran and the United Arab Emirates among the biggest consumers. Infact, the entire Middle East has been steadily increasing their asbestos imports, except for Egypt and Saudi Arabia, the only two countries where asbestos is banned. Iran imports 30,000 tons of asbestos each year, and UAE’s imports stand at more than 17,000 tons of asbestos.

Unsustainable exploitation of natural resources Across the MENA region natural resources are being exploited beyond sustainable levels, leading to environmental decline as well as rising costs on society. In terms of Cost Of Environmental Degradation (COED), the adjusted net savings (net savings rate in an economy after allowing for depletion of natural resources and environment) in MENA in 2001 was 6% of gross national income. For comparison purposes, it was

54 |

1% in sub-Saharan Africa and 23% in East Asia and Pacific, according to a World Bank-commissioned study.

Meanwhile, World Bank’s MENA environment strategy, partnering with METAP, is assisting MENA nations to determine their COED to facilitate integration of environment and sustainability issues into their development models.

MENA and environmental initiatives There are encouraging green signs coming in from the MENA region.

Morocco, for instance, is making concerted efforts to reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels. Its total installed capacity of renewable energy (excluding hydropower) was approximately 300MW in 2011. Around 8% of the country’s total primary energy is derived from renewables as of 2012 data. Morocco has approved a USD13 billion expansion plan for wind, solar and hydroelectric power generation capacity with a targeted share of renewables in the energy mix at 42% by the year 2020, with solar, wind and hydro each contributing 14%.

Its wind energy strategy looks to generate 2000 MW by 2020.

The GCC countries have incorporated renewable energy (RE) into their policy frameworks. Abu Dhabi’s Masdar project addresses sustainability issues through education, R&D, investment, and commercialization of RE technologies.

The clean energy sector in the region is witnessing exciting developments. Saudi Arabia is also contemplating huge investments to develop its solar industry, which can meet onethird of its electricity demand by the year 2032. Other countries are also trying to reciprocate similar moves.

Biomass energy The MENA region represents almost 45 percent of the world’s total energy potential from all renewable sources, which together is capable of generating more than three times the world’s total power demand. MENA region has abundant, unexplored biomass energy resources. The potential of biomass energy in the Euro-Mediterranean region is about 400TWh per year, promising to usher in a new era of energy as well as environmental security for the region.

Since most of the region is arid or semi-arid, the biomass energy potential stems mainly from municipal solid wastes, agricultural residues and industrial wastes.

The food processing industry in MENA produces a large number of organic residues and by-products that can be used as biomass energy sources. The MENA countries have strong animal population, and biogas potential of animal manure can also be harnessed. To sum up, the Middle East region is wellpoised for biomass energy development, with its rich biomass resources in the form of municipal solid waste, crop residues and agro-industrial waste. The implementation of advanced biomass conversion technologies helps in safe disposal of solid and liquid biomass wastes, apart from providing an attractive option to generate energy.

Middle East Carbon Market The MENA region is highly susceptible to climate change, on account of its water scarcity, high dependence on climatesensitive agriculture, concentration of population and increased economic activity in urban coastal zones, and the presence of conflict-affected areas. Moreover, the region’s oil and gas

industries significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

The world’s heavy dependence on Middle East energy resources has turned the region into one of the world’s largest producer of per capita carbon footprints. Not surprisingly, UAE’s carbon emissions have reached 55 tons annual per capita, more than double the US per capita footprint of 22 tons per year.

Over the last few years, countries like UAE, Qatar, Egypt and Saudi Arabia have launched multi-billion dollar investment plans in the clean technology sector. The clean development mechanism (CDM), under the Kyoto Protocol, is one of the most important tools to support renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives in the MENA countries.

The United Arab Emirates has launched several ambitious governmental initiatives aimed at reducing emissions by approximately 40 percent. Masdar, a $15 billion future energy

company, will leverage funds to produce a clean energy portfolio, and invest in clean energy technology across the Middle East and North African region. Egypt is at the forefront of CDM with 12 projects in the UNFCCC pipeline and several in the concept stage.

The Al-Shaheen oil field CDM project in Qatar is the first of its kind in the region and third CDM project in the petroleum industry worldwide. The project activity is expected to reduce GHGs emissions by approximately 2.5 million tCO2 per year and approximately 17 million tCO2 during the initial sevenyear crediting period.

African story The African Development Bank is currently implementing several clean energy projects and programs in the energy and forestry sectors. The Bank’s energy portfolio currently stands at about USD2 billion.

The World Bank and the African Development Bank are working with the Clean Technology Fund (CTF) Trust Fund Committee on using $750 million of concessional funds to scale up the Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) to 1GW over eight years through 10 large projects in Africa. Africa holds great hydropower generation potential, 60% of which is in Guinea, Ethiopia and Congo. The AfDB has committed its support to developing the Gibe III hydroelectric dam in Ethiopia, and funds for the 300MW Lake Turkana Wind Farm in Kenya.

MENA desertification Desertification in the Middle East is a growing problem, with fertile lands turning into barren stretches. According to United Nation’s Development Program’s 2009 Arab Human Development Report, desertification is threatening around one-fifth of the MENA region. Sub-Saharan Africa is drying up, as are once rich agricultural lands of Turkey.

| 55

56 |

Most of the territories of the MENA region are arid.

Degradation of dry lands affects 70 percent of land in the Arab region, according to the Arab Centre for the Study of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD).Continuing land degradation has severe environmental, economic and social implications that could negatively affect the socio-economic growth and political stability of the region. Most of the MENA countries have ratified UNCCD convention, and are working on national strategies, action plans, and integrated financing strategies to combat desertification. The action plans involve long-term integrated strategies for improved productivity of land coupled with rehabilitation, conservation and sustainable management of land and water resources.

desalination systems, thereby saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

MENA and energy efficiency Qatar, Kuwait, UAE, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia figure among the world’s top-10 per capita carbon emitters. Without a change in energy policies and consumption patterns, MENA‘s energyrelated GHG emissions will continue to grow. Presently, MENA countries are heavily dependent on fossil fuels to meet their energy requirement.

Bio Fuel refinery in Saudi Arabia The bio-refinery project funded by King Abdul Aziz City for Science & Technology (KACST) is an innovative initiative. The Saudi Arabia Bio-refinery from Algae (SABA) Project is based on lipid hyper-producer species in its coastal waters that can produce bio fuel. The SABA project is working on an Algae Based Bio-refinery, as well as innovative, sustainable, and commercially viable solutions in the fields of energy, water conservation, and CO2 emissions.

Moreover, scientific institutions such as Arab Centre for the Study of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ASCAD) and International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) too are focusing on conservation and development of natural resources in arid lands. The Council of Arab Ministers of Environment is looking at developing frameworks for collaborative action at regional levels.

Desalination and energy use CSP-Powered Desalination Prospects in MENA According to International Energy Agency the six biggest users of desalination in MENA––Algeria, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates––use approximately 10 percent of the primary energy output for desalination. In fact, desalination consumed more than 4 percent of the total electricity generated in the MENA region in 2010. With growing desalination demand, countries that currently use only a small proportion of their energy for desalination, such as Jordan and Algeria, will experience severe energy crises. The vast solar irradiance in the region is conducive to large-scale deployment of solar powered

| 57

58 |

our oman Sultanate’s environmental issues

O

man is pursuing a sustainable development model, but in reality complete sustainability can at best be an ideal objective. Just like any other nation, Oman also has its share of green issues to grapple with, both manmade and natural.

Natural threats include soil and water salinity in coastal plains (Eg coastal plains of Batinah in Northern Oman), and desertification due to high winds blowing into arable and cultivated lands; while man-made issues include industrially polluted ground water and air.

Another important green challenge is waste management.

Waste generation in Oman

Different types of waste and its management in Oman Municipal waste There are about 350 dumpsites throughout Oman which are used to dispose the annual 1.5 million tonnes of Municipal Solid Waste. These landfill sites pose numerous health and environment hazards as most are build to support rapid urbanization without conforming to any form of standards, according to be’ah (oman environmental services holding company). e-waste The quantity of electrical and electronic equipments imported during last five years according to the statistics issued by the Directorate General of Customs, Royal Oman Police, has shown considerably increasing trend by 44% in 2008 (38,519.60 tonnes) compared to 2004 (21,727.90 tonnes). The increasing trend can be attributed to the growing affluence of the population and rapid urbanization in the sultanate.

Hazardous Waste

Source: Be’ah, Muscat

The Sultanate of Oman has a growing industry based on the rich natural mineral resources. In the industrial processes residues of hazardous nature occur that need to be properly treated and safely disposed of. In recent years a substantial stockpile of waste has been collected in the various industrial

installations and in separate storage areas. For the stored waste materials and for the continuously generated hazardous waste, an efficient system of hazardous waste management has to be developed and implemented. A Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) type contract with the Government and under the purview of OESHCo to address this issue has been signed.

Scarred landscapes, threatened wildlife/marine life According to the Environment Society of Oman (ESO), “There is an ongoing issue of compatibility between modern development in landscapes and preservation of natural and cultural ones. As tourism is now an essential component of a sustainable economy for the future, landscape issues become more economically important.

“Oman’s landscape has been scarred by development over the last 20 years. Examples of this can be seen through the creation of roads, sometimes cutting right through mountains and overhead electricity lines on brightly painted pylons, having a major aesthetic impact on rural areas.”

Threatened Wildlife and Marine life The globally Endangered Wa’al al ‘Arabi suffers from an image of being ‘just a type of goat’, yet it is one of the rarest species in the world, only occurring in the mountains of northern Oman and the UAE and nowhere else in the world. There are still some people who, in their ignorance, hunt them illegally for their meat.

| 59

Marine endangered species include all of the five species of sea turtles that occur in Oman, namely the Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle and Leatherback Turtle. There are several other marine species, from invertebrates to large whales, whose survival here remains uncertain, either because their range is very limited (in the case of some endemic corals, for example) or their population numbers are low and they suffer from human activity (such as in the case of Humpback Whales). More research can help us to better understand which species are in need of special attention.

THREAT TO FISH LIFE The Sultanate, with a 1,700 km-long coastline has extremely rich fishing grounds. A 200-mile exclusive economic zone extends to seaward from the shores of Oman. Fisheries are a valuable adjunct to the oil-based economy. Restrictions have been imposed in recent years on the fishing of certain species, such as lobsters, abalone and kingfish, of which there has been a noticeable decline in stocks, and intensive study is being undertaken to establish the causes of this decline.

The total quantity of fish and crustaceans landed rose sharply through the 1980s, reaching a peak in 1988, after which there was a decline. Research carried out by the Marine and Science Fisheries Centre has indicated that over-fishing has had a major part to play in this decline. As a result, fishing for lobsters and abalone is now restricted to two months in the year (December and January). However, research has also shown that apart from over-fishing, pollution, which now widely affects the oceans, has a part in this, particularly through damage to the mangrove ecosystem, which provides a breeding ground for many types of fish and crustaceans.

an unmanageable level of global waste. We cannot avoid all waste but here are some highlights: plastic bags, glass bottles, ring pulls, illegal waste dumping, food waste, littering.

Litter menace

To harness renewable energy sources, the Government of Oman has established a ministerial committee to oversee and coordinate RE projects chaired by Ministry of National Economy. A technical committee has been formed under

Litter is a growing problem in every country of the world.

Population growth, globalisation and the development of the ‘throw-away society’ have led to what is rapidly becoming

60 | 

Committed To Environment Oman and Renewable Energy

Public Authority for Electricity & Water towards implementing RE projects.

8 MW, and a subsequent feasibility study on large-scale solar project with capacity up to 200 MW during 2011-2014.

Recently the Authority for Electricity Regulation (AER) commissioned a study to investigate the potential for renewable energy projects in the electricity sector. The study has shown tremendous potential for solar and wind energy in Oman, but limited potential for energy from biogas, geothermal and wave sources.

Further, a detailed study by PAEW’s international consultant identified best locations for establishing solar power plants with a maximum capacity of 200MW in the Sultanate. The study identified and short-listed Adam, Manah, Ibri and AlKhaboura sites for future solar power plants. Adam and Manah have been recommended as ideal locations for such projects for which initial environmental approval has been sanctioned.

The Public Authority for Electricity and Water has taken active steps to implement large-scale solar and wind energy projects in Oman, apart from coordinating efforts on research and development in this field and also policy and other support mechanisms.

Renewable energy projects in the Sultanate include the six pilot projects implemented from 2009-2012 with a total capacity of

The concept and use of sustainable energy is at the heart of Oman’s cultural heritage, which has harnessed natural energy for thousands of years. Examples include the design of complex Aflaj systems that channeled water from remote springs for cultivation needs. Several Aflaj are World Heritage Sites listed for their engineering ingenuity and scale. Also, the innovative design of forts and castles facilitated natural

cooling and ventilations systems to make living comfortable even in peak summer heat. The practice of reuse and recycling of water and waste for agriculture, and preservation of fruits, grain and seafood by drying them in the sun marks a culture of sustainability.

Sustainable energy is slated to be a booming sector in Oman with large investments in renewable energy taking pace in petroleum development, telecommunications and service industries.

The Ministry of Housing and Oman’s Supreme Committee for Town Planning have sponsored a range of studies that confirm the potential of solar and wind energy generation for Oman’s regional towns and cities. Building on this research, the Public Authority for Electricity and Water has plans for major solar energy farms near Adam and Manah.

| 61

THE GREEN CRUSADERS of oman Ministry of Tourism

O

ne of the objectives of the ministry is to conserve and protect the natural environment while promoting customs, traditions and cultural heritage among international tourists. It also works to create community awareness, understanding and support for tourism development.

The ministry works on the philosophy that well considered tourism development and operations focused on renewable energy can make a significant contribution to making Oman’s tourism sustainable. Issues relating to sustainability are important for Oman’s future, and it is important to work proactively in this regard, the ministry feels.

Eco Tourism Globally eco-tourism accounts for around 15% to 20% of global travel, and environmental issues matter significantly in global travel planning. Preservation of Oman’s natural environment that is characterized by enchanting beauty and diversity has always been accorded top priority by the government. The tourism sector in Oman boasts ample avenues for eco-tourism, allowing visitors to experience Oman in its entire splendor while causing little harm to its environment.

Oman is a perfect fit for ecotourism: unpolluted and pristine destinations such as Musandam and Khasab in the north and Salalah in the south, as well as a whole range of eco-friendly facilities and ambience suitable for the more traditional tourism activities such as visiting historical sites together make Oman a highly desirable eco-tourism destination.

The major aspect of Oman’s eco-tourism is nature reserves.

Oman has been ranked 19 globally, and first among Arab countries, with 16.1% of its land under conservation.

A significant project by the ministry involves its work on Oman’s caves which are a great tourist attraction. The work focuses on protecting and interpreting intricate and environmentally sensitive limestone cave systems, including some of the world’s largest chambers and some unique crystal features.

Oman’s immense mountain ranges host thousands of caves, many unexplored and most undocumented and the Ministry has funded many exploratory studies and conservation work including crystal chambers and ecosystems that are too sensitive. However, ecosystems such as Al Hoota Caves, provide a unique, sustainability-centered visitor experience celebrating Oman’s biodiversity.

| 63

Oman is home to a diverse wildlife, including 13 types of whales and dolphins, and over 400 species of birds. Nature reserves for leopards, hyenas, oryx, gazelle, taher, ibex, desert fox, antelope, and wild cats have been established in the Sultanate, and are deemed strategic to its tourism policy.

Ras al-Had beach nature reserve is renowned for turtle breeding. The Daymaniyat islands area designated bird sanctuary. Wadial-Sarin is home to the taher, a mountain goat unique to Oman.

Endangered species including Arabian oryx are being nurtured at the Jiddat al-Harasis reserve a site that finds mention on UNESCO’S World Natural and Cultural Heritage Register.

The desert bird species houbara has also been saved from extinction through appropriate measures. Many endangered species of plants and trees like cordiaperrottetii -- a rare tree with a history dating back 1,500 years – are also being nurtured well.

MoT partners with IUCN The fruitful partnership between Oman and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) -- world’s oldest and largest global environmental organization— has greatly enhanced the prospects of Oman’s eco tourism sector.

The Ministry of Tourism is focusing on efforts to boost ecotourism as a socially and environmentally-responsible form of tourism in the Sultanate. A pilot project is under way in Bandar Khiran, which was declared a public ecotourism site through a Royal Decree, under technical guidance and help from IUCN’s Regional Office for West Asia (IUCN ROWA).

Bandar Khiran, with its characteristic coastal cliffs and narrow sandy beaches is home to mangroves and well-developed coral reefs. Its coastal and marine biodiversity consists of but not limited to white-cheeked terns, sooty falcons, green and

64 |

hawksbill turtles that nest there. Unexplored archaeological sites and sheltered bays providegreat recreational avenues.

The Ministry partnering with IUCN is working to promote sustainable local and national economic development, strengthening the capacity of governmental and nongovernmental institutions in the areas of eco-tourism planning and natural resource management.

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL MUNICIPALITIES Ministry of regional municipalities and water resources Guided by a vision of sustainable development aimed at satisfying development requirements in all fields, the ministry is vision is to achieve quality and excellence in Municipal and Water Services and to be a Pioneer inSocial Partnership.

Mission The ministry works to achieve continuous development and progress in municipal and water services to insure a sound and healthy environment, balanced construction development and active participation in enhancing infrastructure and public services. Sound management of water resources and actively involving municipalities in the development process on the national and local level in accordance with the set standards of quality and adequacy through better institutional and regulative capabilities is a fundamental philosophy of the ministry. Its other efforts include use and upgrade of modern technologies, encouragement of creative initiatives and meaningful partnership between society and private sector in sustainable development at the local level.

The core vision however is to protect public health and ensure environmental sanitation as wells as quality control services, achieved through discovering, assessing and developing water resources, and ensuring their sound management by ensuring their judicious exploitation and consumption.

Preserving water resources from exhaustion and economizing water consumption in all spheres, as well as coordinating with relevant authorities in water management also fall under its responsibility.

The ministry conducts preventative health care and encourages a healthy environment in cooperation with the Ministry of Health. Major environmental services include street cleaning, reclaiming swamps, building and maintenance of sewage systems, and beautification of cities with gardens and plants and provision of breathing space for people by developing and maintaining public parks.

Finally, it also strives to raise health and environmental awareness among citizens and encourage them to preserve the beauty and cleanliness of cities. Going further, plants and seedlings are distributed free to residents to encourage a greener environment from its regional offices.

PUBLIC AUTHORITY FOR ELECTRICITY AND WATER The Public Authority for Electricity and Water provides high quality sustainable and reliable potable water and power services to all people in the Sultanate of Oman.

Because water is a precious resource for the Sultanate, the Authority is committed to reducing water losses throughout the Oman network. In order to achieve this, our leak detection teams are dedicated to identify leaks and reduce the difference between water produced and water used by customers..

Small water system distribution units have thus been created, accounting each for between 500 and 2,500 customers. These are called District Metered Areas (DMA), whose flows and pressure are constantly monitored and compared to billing

data in order to assess the level of both commercial and technical losses and to target corrective actions. The analysis includes a daily assessment of the minimum flow at night, our main operational indicator of technical losses such as leakage.

Hydraulic models have been built and are being routinely calibrated. This allows PAEW to identify both the areas with low pressure and the areas where controlling the water pressure could be implemented as a way to reduce water losses.

In the Sultanate of Oman, water mostly originates from the sea. 85% of our tap water comes from sea water, which is desalinated by desalination plants located throughout the country.

The most - recently developed process for reliable and efficient water desalination is called “reverse osmosis”, or R.O.. In

the R.O. process, semi-permeable membranes are used to separate salt from water.

Another process, used at its Ghubra, Sohar and Barka 1desalination plants, is called “Multiple stage Flash Distillation”. It consistsof boiling the water at less than atmospheric pressure. The water vapor is then collected and becomes desalinated water. After the desalination process, water is re-mineralized and chlorinated to produce drinking water that is ready for customers to use.

The authority is committed to minimising the environmental impacts of its activities and prevent pollution, and strives to achieve efficient use of materials and energy. It has developed a Quality Management System (QMS) for water activities and related processes in accordance with the international standard ISO 9001:2008.

| 65

66 |

Clean Up Oman

participate. Another campaign we are hoping to launch is Each One Plants One, a movement to increase green cover in Oman.

Clean Up Oman conducts four annual clean ups and one plant a tree campaign.

Founded in November 2011, Clean Up Oman is a public group that complements government efforts to maintain Oman clean and beautiful. It conducts a number of regular mini clean ups across Oman and four nationwide annual clean ups, namely Clean Up Oman Annual Day, Annual Clean Up a School, Annual Clean Up a Mosque and Annual Clean Up a Business.

Individuals can join the group absolutely free and will in not be expected to make any monetary donations.

Our mission is to tip the scale against reckless dumping of litter. An important facet of our work is spreading awareness.

We do this by a number of ways, two of which is through info kits and partnership. We partner with institutions, particularly educational and businesses, by helping them out to conduct clean ups at their premises and we are happy to arrange presentations for their students and staff.

These nationwide campaigns take place as follows:

Along with clean ups, we also conduct capacity building workshops to enhance the skills of our members, particularly in the areas of public speaking, presentation skills, environmental issues and volunteerism. Workshops are conducted by experts in their fields and there is no entrance fee for anyone wishing to

The group is voluntary and its events are facilitated by sponsorship in kind. The Clean Up Oman logo is today, arguably, the most recognized social brand in Oman, embodying the ethical and responsible use of social media for a better environment.

• Annual Clean Up Oman – last Thursday of March • Annual Clean Up a Mosque – Last Thursday of August • Annual Clean Up a School – First Saturday of November • Annual Clean Up a Business – First Monday of December Beyond these, the plant-a-tree campaign is in the process of being launched. Clean Up Oman also offers various partnership packages where companies can support volunteers by providing them with necessary tools for sanitation, t-shirts, caps etc.

Environment Society of Oman Oman’s Green Champion

E

nvironment Society of Oman (ESO) is a nongovernment organization established with the aim of raisingpublic awareness of environmental issues and providing a forum for exchange of ideas and information related to the Sultanate’s environment.

ESO encourages public involvement in the conservation of environment by organizing participatory events and fostering co-operation between government, NGOs and the private sector.

Environment Society of Oman The Environment Society of Oman ESO is the only fullfledged environmental NGO in the Sultanate, and was founded in March 2004 by likeminded Omanis who loved nature and were committed to its protection and nurture.

Membership to ESO is opento anyone above the age of 18 who has an interest in conserving the environment and ensuring that Oman’s natural heritage remains intact forfuture generations to enjoy.

ESO has as its major partner the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs. There is a close working relation with

the ministry whereby information is shared between them so as to further conservation practices.

Beyond this, ESO coordinates with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Ministry of Social Development and Ministry of Education also.

ESO is funded through corporate sponsorships, memberships, private donations, and aid from international grant agencies.Corporates act as major project partners helping ESO secure funding for its various programs.

ESO’s long running partnership with Oman LNG needs special mention. Oman LNG has been ESO’spartner in its Capacity Building project that trains young Omanis in the field of environmental conservation. They also sponsored ESO’s plastic bag campaign in 2009 and continue its support in many ways.

ESO hopes that more corporates will realise the benefits of corporate social responsibility as a means of giving back to communities, through collaborating with NGOs like ESO.

In the words of HH SayyidTarik Bin Shabib Al-Said,Patron of the Environment Society of Oman: “We are careless with our environment because we can be and because it is easy, but mainly because we do not think ahead;yet we have the capacity to think ahead. It is our job to nurture this ability...the rest will follow.”

ESO has been awarded a host of international and local grants and awards in recognition of its pioneering environmental campaigns and projects.

| 67

Since its establishment a decade ago, ESO has been active on the green front. Recent campaigns undertaken by ESO includeEarth Hour, inter-college public speaking competition, field research on conservation, women’s environmental education and empowerment project and capacity building initiatives.

Earth Hour Earth Hour, a global awareness campaign that started in Australia in 2007, is today a worldwide movement organized by the World Wide Fund of Nature (WWF). Over the last four years ESO had led the national Earth Hour campaign engaging individuals and public and private sectors in Oman. The campaign aims to encourage people to commit to saving energy by switching off lights for one hour as a tokenof commitment to protect the environment.

Inter College Environmental Public Speaking Competition (ICSC) In 2013, ESOtogether with Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) presented the second Inter College Environmental Public Speaking Competition in Oman. It was organized with the aim of developing a deep appreciation of the environment and an understanding of the challenges facing it, through study, research, discussion and debate.

The competition requires the students to build and present strong cases for various contemporary issues and raise questions relating to the environment. The competition

68 |

gave the participants a wonderful opportunity to showcase knowledge and talent, and served as a good networking tool among government and private academic institutions.

Field researches to further conservation measures Turtle Monitoring Project Sea turtles globally are considered at risk, several of them are considered threatened, endangered or critically endangered under the IUCN red-list. Oman’s turtles are no different, and are exposed to many risk factors including coastal development, loss or damage of habitat from overfishing, loss of nesting beaches, light pollution, noise.

ESO has been monitoring the endangered Loggerhead turtles found on Masirah Island and Hawksbill turtles found on the Damaniyat Islands for 6 years. ESO’s research showed that there has been a staggering 80% decrease in the population of Loggerheads which prompted the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs to form a committee to develop a National Conservation Turtle Strategy. ESO feels it is imperative that turtle monitoring continues whilst the conservation measures are being put into action.

ESO has trained local field assistants on Masirah Island over the last 4 years, who study the migration and nesting frequency of the turtles through daily monitoring and surveys.

Data is collected and analysed with the help of international scientists to gauge the efficacy of

& Health Problems from Industrial Enterprises) and Yankul (Environmental & Health Impacts of Waste Generated from the Gold and Copper Mine). This is a one year project.

conservation measures. Through this project, ESO’s local field assistants are building their knowledge and expertise in the field of research which is extremely important to Oman’s future conservation efforts.

Capacity building program: creating a more responsible youth

Whale and Dolphins Project

ESO had been steadily growing since its formation.One of its major goals has been hiring and training Omanis in the field of environmental conservation, where skills related to NGO management, project management, conservation management, volunteerism, in-field research, community outreach, awareness campaigns and volunteer management are imparted.

Humpback whales are world famous for undertaking long seasonal migration between polar feeding areas and tropical breeding areas. ESO research has shown Oman’s humpback whales to be the only known population in the world not to migrate; they breed and feed in the same geographic area. This makes them truly Arabian whales! Not only are these whales distinct in this regard, but as per recent research by ESO, also indicates they are one of the smallest and potentially most vulnerable whale populations in the world, numbering fewer than 100 in Oman.

Women’s Environmental Education and Empowerment Project

The project aims to improve conservation of cetaceans based on information acquired through scientific research; better define cetacean distribution, abundance and population identities in Oman; define critical habitats of cetaceans in Oman; identify, assess and help mitigate threats to cetaceans through conservation management recommendations and action; and raise awareness on marine and coastal environmental issues related to cetaceans,alongside enhancing environmental education in Oman.

This project is aimed at raising Omani women’s awareness of environmental issues, and empowering them to identify local environmental problems and look for solutions in their respective regions. Over the last three years ESO has provided training and opportunities for local women to meet and discuss environmental issues. The project promoted Omani women’s participation in the decision-making process and set a precedent by bringing together the public and their elected Shura Council members to discuss issues and solutions.

Phases I and II of the project covered Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, Nizwa, Sur, Khasab, Ibri and Yankul, while phase III will provide opportunities for trained Omani women to train women’s groups in neighbouring regions to ensure the project’s sustainability.

The project consists of selecting two interventions expressed by local women, one from each phase, and implementing them in collaboration with relevant stakeholders in each region. The selected projects are from Sohar (Environmental

In March 2012 Oman LNG became ESO’s Capacity Building Partner and since then 10 employees have been hired and trained, giving ESO the much-needed project support and administrative assistance, in managing more research, community-outreach and education projects in Oman.

ESO has always supported sustainable tourism and ecotourism initiatives, and believes that tourismis not just about environmental threats, but about potential opportunities as well. ESO’s Renaissance Whale and Dolphin project hopes to supportand enhance the emerging dolphin watching industry in Oman; and in doing so protect whales and dolphins from the negative impacts of tourism. The goal is to contribute toward raising the standards and economic profitability of whale/dolphin watching tourism in Oman, and actively support conservation of cetaceans and their habitats.

Another issue of significant environmental concernhas been the plastic menace in the Sultanate. Plastic bags are widely used in Oman. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs has formed a plastic bag committee, and as a committee member, ESO works with the government and plastic bag manufacturers to push for regulations.

| 69

According to ESO, water conservation is another issue that demands urgent attention, as the Omani population doesn’t generally practice water conservation measures. Not much thought is given to the amount of water spent in our day to day activities such as laundry, washing dishes, flushing and bathing. Though the Public Authority for Electricity and Water is running some awareness campaigns to try to improve consumer awareness and conservation, more needs to be done.

ESO believes that one of the major challenges to Oman’senvironment will stem from a development model that fails to incorporateadequate environmental considerations, mitigation measures and approaches to sustainability into it. However, this will hardly be a cause of concern, as the government of the Sultanate, under the wise vision and leadership of HH Sultan Qaboos bin Said, has always accorded the greatest thrust on sustainable development with special focus on conservation of its environment and natural resources.

70 | 

state of the art solutions Petroleum Development Oman Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is Oman’s foremost oil exploration and production companycontributing more than 70% of the country’s crude-oil production and nearly all of its natural-gas supply. Government of Oman has a 60% interest in PDO. PDO’s Corporate Environment Affairs department ensures that PDO always operates in an environmentally responsible fashion. PDO was the first major E & P company in Oman to get ISO 14001 certification in 1999 for its environment management system.

PDO’s Environmental Affairs Department oversees Sustainable Development, Environmental Performance Monitoring, ISO 14001 guidelines, permit applications, Associated Gas Management Plan, Produced Water Management Plan, Environmental Impact Assessments, Environmental Campaigns, Abandonment & Restoration projects and Chemicals Management.

ORPIC As Oman’s national refining and petrochemicals company providing fuel to meet the country’s energy demands, orpic’s environmental initiatives are crucial.

Orpic’s policy is to surpass the standards set by the national environmental regulations covering the operation of its plants, by measuring, managing and minimizing the environmental impact of its entire operations. A highlight of its environmental performance initiatives is its acclaimed Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP), which reflects its unflinching commitment to environmental responsibility.

A number of key projects aimed at eliminating or reducing negative impacts on the environment are being implemented or in various stages of implementation. The Environmental Improvement Plan was developed in co-operation with the Sohar Environmental Unit (SEU) branch of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA). Nineteen

projects have been identified at an estimated cost of USD 50 million, of which more than 65% have been completed.

These 19 projects address key adverse environmental impacts, namely: Waste Water Treatment and Odour Nuisance control, Flare Emissions Reduction, SOx Emissions Reduction, Fugitive Emissions Reduction through LDAR (Leak Detection and Repair) Program and Industrial Waste Management.

| 71

As part of the EIP, Orpic’s Gas Flaring has reduced by 60% since 2010, while SOx emission has been reduced by 80% since 2012. An Industrial Waste Storage Facility was set up within its Sohar complex.

For all the stationary sources across its plants Sox, Nox, PM10 and CO are constantly monitored. For the ambient air quantity PM10, NOx, Sox, CO, O3, hydrocarbons, Methane, and Non methane hydrocarbons are analysed, while ambient air quality is measured for various contaminants on a frequent basis.

Orpic meets regularly with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA) and its Sohar Environmental Unit

(SEU), usually a few times a month.

Backing the national objective to provide clean fuels in Oman, Orpic refineries started producing environment-friendly unleaded motor gasoline in 2001 and eco-friendly ultra-low sulphur diesel in 2004.

Effluent treatment facilities Orpic’s waste water treatment facilities are designed to meet global marine discharge standards (MD159/2005). In some of these facilities treated effluent is used for irrigation purposes. The Sour Water Stripping Units ensure the removal

of pollutants such as hydrogen, sulphur and ammonia, to make the water suitable for re-use in the refining process. Any liquid effluent is checked for compliance against MECA’s pollution parameters before it is discharged.

Gaseous emissions Orpic uses low sulphur, hydrogen-rich fuel in furnaces to reduce emissions, and undertakes continuous ambient air monitoring to ensure good air quality around the refineries and plants. It has installed low NOx burners in its new heaters to reduce emissions. The company’s steam-assisted smokeless flare ensures the safe disposal of gases from its plants during emergency situations.

Solid waste Precious metal bearing catalysts are sent for metal recovery for re-use, while spent alumina (RFCC spent catalyst) is exported for re-use in other industries.

SOHAR ALUMINIUM Ensuring a cleaner and sustainable environment for the current and future generations ranks as the highest priority at Sohar Aluminium. It is a strong believer in caring for the environment and has always been a pioneer in implementing innovative and efficient environmental projects. It has been closely working with the Environment Society of Oman extending support to its various activities.

The company unfailingly participates in pro-environment campaigns such as the Earth Hour, thus contributing to national efforts. Sohar Aluminium has been observing the Earth Hour since 2011. Its vision includes encouraging its entire workforce to be accountable for their ecological footprint and to reflect on how they can contribute to easing environmental challenges.

72 |

HAYA - Oman wastewater Services The Oman Wastewater Services Company (Haya) converts wastewater into environment-friendly products. It offers services related to the use of recycled-water for domestic, commercial, industrial or agricultural purposes.

Haya Water was created in 2002 with the objective of building and operating a world-class water reuse system for the Muscat Governorate. It is a closed joint stock company owned by the Government of the Sultanate of Oman.

Haya comes from the Arabic word “Hayat” meaning life, and means water, fertility or the lush vegetation that grows in the

desert after rain. Its vision is to enable Muscat to become one of the top cities in the world by building and operating a world class Water Reuse system that connects at least 80% of the properties by the year 2018 and brings enormous environmental benefits to the city. Haya Water aims to serve society by converting wastewater into environmental friendly products.

Majis Industrial Services Majis Industrial Services (Majis) was established in 2006 to provide water services to Oman’s growing industrial port and other special economic areas in Sohar. Majis started its operations by providing seawater for cooling purposes to the

tenants of Sohar Industrial Port Area (SIPA), and has since grown to become a one-stop water utilities solution provider.

It plays a unique role by providing, reliable, cost-effective and environment-friendly water utility solutions.

The Government of Oman is the sole shareholder of Majis.

A strategic alliance for a worldclass solution Majis has forged a strategic alliance with Azaliya -- a subsidiary of Veolia Water, a global benchmark setter in the design, construction and operation of water and wastewater services facilities. Through this alliance, Azaliya carries out O&M services while Majis taps into Veolia’s worldwide resources and expertise to provide tailor-made solutions across industries using latest technologies.

These include consultancy services for diagnosis and troubleshooting, equipment supply for treatment, and long-term operation and maintenance of clients’ own water facilities.

The Majis-Veolia partnership focuses on gathering local and global expertise to provide the best solutions in the most efficient manner.

Majis has established strong partnerships with universities and is targeting to build up sustainable ties in order to support and assist their research departments in the near future. In addition, many pre-graduate students receive on-the-job training with Majis every year.

Majis has a strong Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) vision and views it as part of its working practice aimed at addressing social issues by creating shared values between its business and community. It believes that such strategy will lead to a sustainable environment where business and community can work together towards a better society.

| 73

74 |

Oman

- the Land of Bliss

T

he subliminal beauty of Oman needs no introduction.

Undulating deserts stretching into infinity, rugged majestic mountains that are nothing but poems chiseled in stone, lush green plains adding an ethereal dimension to space, enchanting valleys and stunning beaches… Oman is like no other land. Add to this historical forts, ancient mud houses with unique architectural designs, traditional souqs that are home to indigenous art and craft, the fabled frankincense and an effable people: Oman is a land nonpareil.

‘falaj’), ancient irrigation systems, which draw water from underground springs and feed them along narrow canals. The contrast between barren countryside and oasis-like villages makes for spectacular scenery.

With a land area of approximately 309,500 sqkm, Oman is the third largest country in the Arabian Peninsula after Saudi Arabia and Yemen, and is surrounded by the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Located on the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula the Sultanate of Oman has a 1700 km coastline boasting pristine, windswept beaches stretching from the Strait of Hormuz in the north, to the borders of the Republic of Yemen in the South.

Boasting one of the most diversified topographical features in the middle east, Oman has coastal plains making up about 3% of the total land area, while mountains account for 15% of the Sultanate. The rest are deserts and sands.

The beauty lies in its variety: Oman’s landscape assumes myriad hues and tones across the Sultanate. Mountains fade while sandy deserts emerge, and over there rocky valleys, ‘wadis’ in local parlance, disappear into green meadows and agricultural farms, while all along the coast frothy waves incessantly implodes on the shoreline.

Right across Oman’s landscape, rocky hills and desert valleys are frequently punctuated with green swathes of date palms plantations. These are typically fed by aflaj (singular:

The geographic diversity of Oman is one of its major attractions, with its many different environments providing the perfect place for a wide range of visitor activities.

Coastline

Dhofar lies in the south of Oman. During the monsoon months of June to September (known as Khareef) cool moist air from the Arabian Sea heads inland and hits the mountains creating a thick envelop of fog. transforming the south-facing slopes into a lush green parkland.

Mountain ranges Oman’s major mountain range is the 10,000-foot Al Hajar range stretching parallel to the country’s northern coastline from Musandam in the North across to Ras Al Had, the far tip of the Arabian Peninsula. It was formed over millions of years through Arabia-Eurasia collision. At its heart lies the famed Jabal al-Akhdar (the ‘green mountain’), with its peak – the Jebel Shams - towering 3,300 m above sea level. During winter the summit experiences light snowfall.

At some points, though, the rugged mountains plunge directly into the sea; in others, the pristine white sand stretches for kilometres on end, while birdlife can be seen frolicking in coastal estuaries.

Dhofar magic Dhofar Governorate stretches over an area of one third of Oman and forms the Sultanate’s southern part. Dhofar includes a distinctive natural diversity where the coast blends with the mountains and the desert in wonderful harmony so that the mountains look like a fertile crescent, rising to a height of 1,500 metres and then descending into a flat plain that embraces sandy beaches stretching for hundreds of kilometres.

| 75

Climate The Sultanate of Oman lies in an arid region, and has tropical climate showing considerable climatic variations.

The northern end of Al Hajar range is largely porous limestone rock, serving to be the source of water mainly for irrigation purposes. The southern part of the range is igneous or volcanic rock.

Jebel Shams (mountain of the Sun), is the highest point on the Arabian Peninsula where temperatures are often 20ºC less than the surroundings. Jebel Akhdar has lush green vegetation blanketing the mountainsides, however,the rest of the Hajjr mountain chain sports rocky, barren slopes with little vegetation. The fabled Grand Canyon of Arabia lies at the foot of Jebel Shams, distinguished by awesome rocky escarpments, toothed ravines and villages seemingly clinging onto the cliff.

Valleys Oman’s mountain regions are dotted with hundreds of wadis, or valleys. Being Water usually flows along the river beds for a short period, immediately following rainfall, leading to flash floods when rainfall is heavy and/or a wadi very narrow.

Puddles can be seen several weeks or even months after rains.

Musandam peninsula The rocky and rugged Musandam peninsula is special in that it is an exclave of Oman, separated from the rest of the Sultanate

76 |

by the United Arab Emirates. It juts north towards Iran, forming the Strait of Hormuz. On the leading edge of the Arabian plate, the Musandam Peninsula is sinking, tilting down to the north, owing to the movement of Earth’s crust where the Arabian plate is slowly pushing under the Eurasian plate.

The higher elevation mountains remain above the water, but the valleys are filled with seawater. As a result Musandam’s coastline is made of a number of drowned river valleys.

Dazzling in myriad shades of blue, white, and green, Musandam’s largest city al Khasab turns magical with subtle rainbow tones of the surrounding rock formations, and has vast green vegetation. Green patches can be seen throughout Musandam coast. Traces of iron gives the limestone mountains shades of yellow, brown, and red, while magnesium paints it gray in other parts.

Apart from Al Khasab and other settlements, Musandam is a barren land.

Sand desert Along Oman’s western border lies the edge of the Rub alKhali, or Empty Quarter. This magnificent sand desert covers nearly 600,000 sq km. Yet another sand desert is the Sharqiyah (Eastern) Sands, spread over 9,400 sq km.

Oman’s tropical climate is subject to seasonal changes and varies across regions. In the coastal areas summer is hot and humid while it is hot and dry in the interior. Atop the Jabal Al Akhdar, however, it’s moderate climate throughout the year.

The monsoons bring rain to the southern coast of Oman– the Dhofar region – particularly in and around Salalah. As the Arabian Gulf region sulks in the scorching summer heat peaking to beyond 45ºC, the Dhofar region enjoys a moderate climate of less than 27ºC with heavy monsoon rains between May and September. During the December-March winter, light and occasionally heavy rains envelope the region.

The Hajar range, rising to over 10,000 ft at its highest points, attracts the most rainfall to the Sultanate, much of it as heavy localised thunderstorms during the summer months, and from depressions crossing the Arabian Peninsula from the west during the winter.

However, as elsewhere in the Sultanate, except in the extreme south, it is very sporadic, and is subject to considerable annual variations. The coastal plain and sea ward-facing slopes of the mountains in Dhofar in the extreme south receive regular light monsoon rains from June to September. Much of the Interior of the country is desert or semi-desert.

SEASONS: Summer is between May to September, with a temperature of 20-35ºC and milder weather is experienced in the mountains and in the Dhofar region all year round. Monsoon is between June and October. Winter begins from October through April at temperatures of10-25ºC.