The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah has issued 28 violations for razing soil, damaging vegetation, and cutting down perennial and non-perennial trees of national and environmental importance for the purpose of logging in wild areas. The fines were issued during 2020, and each violation has resulted in a AED10,000 for the perpetrators.

In implementation of Executive Council Resolution No. 39 of 2016, regarding the prevention of environmental degradation, the Environment and Protected Areas Authority seeks to preserve the natural environment, and to sanction violators of this decision and sabotage and destroy natural resources.

Protect local plants and trees

Her Excellency Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of Environment and Protected Areas Authority, said: “The issuing of these fines emphasize our position on violating the provisions that have been put in place to protect the environment. Harming these environments causes a deterioration of wild areas and negatively affects visitors.”

She drew attention to the importance and necessity of continuing to work to protect local plants and trees from all tampering and sabotage, as they are considered a national wealth and treasure. She emphasized that the EPAA works to preserve these plants by replanting them in their natural habitats, in addition to applying strict laws to preserve them.

Implement multiple campaigns

The EPAA’s teams continue their work efficiently and are working to implement multiple campaigns throughout the year, including raising awareness on the importance of preserving the environment and intensifying their campaigns against wrongful practises which harm the environment.

The authority’s efforts, agenda and strategy are based on the vision of His Highness Sheikh DrSultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and in implementation of the directives of His Highness regarding the environment, its protection, conservation and sustainability, and the preservation of biological diversity.

The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah seeks to protect the environment, natural reserves, wildlife and their biodiversity through scientific studies and research. The authority publishes educational awareness material, implements policies for environmental awareness and programs, and launches specialized campaigns in the field of environmental awareness and education.