Muscat – In a significant environmental policy shift, Oman has prohibited the export of firewood and charcoal, a move aimed at preserving the country’s natural resources.

Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of Environment Authority, has issued Decision No 70/2024, which revises existing regulations concerning logging and charcoal production processes. The decision aligns with Oman’s Environmental Protection and Pollution Control Law enacted via Royal Decree No 114/2001, as well as the Law on Natural Reserves and Wildlife Conservation outlined in Royal Decree No 6/2003.

The newly enforced regulations specify that the export of firewood and charcoal will be strictly controlled, with exceptions only for products that are imported into Oman and then re-exported, or those derived from exotic and invasive plant species as identified by the Environment Authority.

Individuals or entities found in breach of the export ban face administrative fines ranging from RO200 to RO1,000. For repeated offences within a year of the initial fine, penalties double.

The decision was issued on April 24 and came into effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette, marking a critical step towards sustainable environmental management and conservation efforts in Oman.

The move is expected to prevent the depletion of natural resources and foster a more sustainable approach to handling the nation’s wood products and by-products.