Muscat – Environment Authority in Dakhliyah governorate launched the second season of the ‘Environmental Protectors’ programme on Saturday. 

Timed to coincide with the beginning of the Jabal Akhdar Tourism Festival running from August 3 to 19, the programme aims to elevate environmental awareness among citizens and visitors alike. 

The initiative further aims to track and prevent violations to ensure a clean and sustainable environment in Jabal Akhdar.

Abdullah bin Sulaiman al Shaqsi, head of Environmental Monitoring Department in Dakhliyah, outlined the programme’s objectives. “After last year’s successful first season, we’re launching our second edition. We aim to safeguard environmental diversity, specifically the protection of perennial wild trees.” 

Shaqsi stressed the need to avoid littering, refrain from felling trees and adhere to various other measures crucial for management of Jabal Akhdar Nature Reserve.

He also noted a significant increase in awareness among citizens since the programme’s inception last year. He called for “shared responsibility in preserving our stunning environment” and encouraging collective efforts to protect the region’s unique natural resources.

In order to mitigate harmful environmental practices, the department aims to educate both locals and tourists about the repercussions of such activities. This includes safeguarding wildlife and specific wild trees such as Al Alan and Al Atm. The team will monitor and prevent tree burning, particularly at sites where barbecuing is common. Field teams will be deployed for oversight at various tourist spots in Jabal Akhdar.

This initiative works in collaboration with government agencies and private sector institutions to provide services and host activities in the wilayat.