Muscat – The Environment Authority ( EA) on Sunday launched a series of initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting afforestation as part of its wider efforts to strengthen environmental sustainability and encourage eco-friendly practices across the Sultanate.

The authority announced a ban on the use of plastic water bottles at its premises, reflecting its commitment to cutting single-use plastic waste and encouraging employees and visitors to adopt sustainable alternatives such as reusable bottles. The move forms part of the authority’s broader strategy to minimise environmental impact and foster a culture of environmental responsibility in workplaces.

The authority stressed that reducing plastic consumption is no longer an option, but an environmental necessity that requires collective action from institutions and individuals to tackle the growing challenges posed by plastic pollution and climate change.

In a parallel initiative to expand green cover and spread awareness about the importance of tree planting, the authority’s South Batinah branch, in cooperation with South Al Batinah Municipality, distributed 1,300 free saplings at Al Rustaq Public Park. The initiative included wild and ornamental trees aimed at encouraging home gardening and increasing green spaces.

The campaign supports the national initiative to plant 10 million trees, which seeks to enhance environmental sustainability, combat climate change and improve quality of life.

The authority said afforestation campaigns contribute to improving air quality, lowering temperatures and preserving biodiversity. It also called on members of the public to actively participate in environmental initiatives and adopt sustainable daily practices to help build a greener and more environmentally responsible future for coming generations.