Protecting and Sustaining Marine Water Quality in Abu ... · Abu Dhabi Protection of the marine environment and ensuring its sustainability for future generations is a strategic priority

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Protecting and Sustaining Marine Water Quality in Abu Dhabi Emirate

2012 - 2018

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Protecting and Sustaining Marine Water Quality in Abu Dhabi Emirate

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Late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

We are here today to show our full commitment to the environment, as it is an integral part of our culture and history. On this blessed land lived our fathers and forefathers, and by instinct, they had a delicate sense of the necessity to preserve our land and marine environment, which reflected on their keenness to take of it just what they needed and leave what remained unexhausted to the upcoming generations. We will follow the example set by our ancestors and uphold our responsibility towards the environment by preserving it, on land and in the sea, not only for our own welfare but also for the sake of the next generations. It is a pledge that we have taken before our ancestors, and the pledge shall be fulfilled by this generation and the next and the next.

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Emirate has witnessed unprecedented growth over the past four decades, as population doubled more than 14 times since 1975. This rapid development was accompanied by high growth of industry, transport and infrastructure sectors in addition to higher demands on water and energy, leading to adverse impacts on our delicate environment. However, we believe that our continuous growth must be sustainable, accordingly it is necessary to review the current status of environment and human activities affecting it.

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H.E. Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi Vice Chairman of Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi

Over the past few years, the United Arab Emirates has accomplished much as it has developed. However, this development has had adverse impacts on environment, including the marine ecosystem. As the coastline continued to be affected by rapid economic and urban development, it was necessary to protect the quality of marine water in the Emirate to maintain the quality of fisheries, recreational beaches, coral reefs, seagrass, as well as native species such as dugongs and turtles.

The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has given special attention to improving the quality of marine water since this is the main source of domestic water supply once desalinated; in addition to the importance of waterways and seaports in moving the national economy and trade with the countries of the region and the world. Abu Dhabi Plan included a programme to improve the quality of marine water and entrusted the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, in coordination with stakeholders, to implement projects and initiatives under this programme.

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The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi is the competent authority responsible for protecting the environment in the Emirate. The Agency put great effort into enhancing the quality of marine water in cooperation with members of the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality in the Emirate as per Abu Dhabi Plan.

Abu Dhabi’s efforts over the past few years have contributed to improving the quality of marine water in the Emirate, which has positively reflected the sustainability of the marine environment, not only for its importance in supporting economic and tourism activities, but also for its important impact on public health and natural resources.

This document reviews the achievements of the Higher Committee and confirms that, through cooperation and concerted efforts, we are able to achieve our objectives and follow up on the implementation of various initiatives, overcome obstacles, and address gaps to improve the quality of marine water in the Emirate.

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Foreword

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H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak Managing Director of Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi

Protection of the marine environment and ensuring its sustainability for future generations is a strategic priority of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi. As part of Abu Dhabi’s efforts to preserve the marine environment, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi launched the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality in 2012. The marine environment is a key economic pillar of the Emirate, given the increased reliance on coastal activities from growing recreational, developmental, industrial, tourism and maritime transport activities.

The initiative is considered a response to the challenges faced by the Emirate over the past decades as a result of high population growth and changes in lifestyle, leading to a decline in marine water quality due to increased discharges from power and desalination plants, as well as sewage and industrial effluents. In addition, the rapid development of the maritime transport sector resulted in adverse impacts on marine water quality.

The Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality is chaired by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi and has members from all stakeholders in the Emirate. It follows up on the implementation of the

programmes, projects and initiatives specified in the Executive Plan for Enhancing Marine Water Quality prepared by the Committee and approved by the Executive Council of the Emirate in 2013. Several outreach programmes and awareness campaigns targeting various groups of the society and public and private sectors were launched with the aim of enhancing awareness of the key negative impacts on marine water quality and the actions that were taken in response to environmental and social changes, leading to remarkable improvement in marine water quality.

This document shows a success story achieved by the Higher Committee’s technical team that won Al Dana Award for Excellence, Golden Category in 2016. It documents the main achievements of the Higher Committee and technical team during the period from 2012 to 2018 in the field of protection and sustainability of the marine environment. The legislative and regulatory frameworks in the Emirate has been strengthened through the promulgation of many policies, regulatory instruments, guidance documents and technical standards. In addition, harmful discharges to the marine environment have been halted through the implementation of several projects and initiatives that have contributed to achieving the objectives and improving performance indicators.

The success achieved in improving marine water quality in Abu Dhabi is undoubtedly due to the fruitful cooperation of all members of the Higher Committee, and the great attention, coordination and collaboration of all partners. However, we aspire to make more accomplishments to achieve our ambitious goals and ensure a better life for everyone.

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Preface

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H.E. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri Acting Secretary General of Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi

The Emirate’s coastline represents more than 75% of the total coastal area of the United Arab Emirates. The Emirate’s marine waters contain a distinct ecosystem that makes it home to a variety of marine species. Any deterioration in marine water quality in the Emirate will have adverse impacts on the economic well-being of the Emirate, the public health, and marine biodiversity.

Over the past decades, the Emirate has faced the challenge of discharging treated wastewater into the marine and land environment, resulting in deterioration in water quality around Abu Dhabi Island and the formation of lakes of treated wastewater in the western region of the Emirate. Continuous discharge of brine from power generation and desalination plants to the marine environment have also affected the increasing risks to the public health and economic development of the Emirate.

In this context, Abu Dhabi has defined its strategic objectives in the Emirate Plan, based on key themes that meet the actual requirements of the Emirate, reflect the necessary needs of the environment and direct efforts and resources to serve the objectives of sustainable development. The plan includes a programme that aims at preserving and enhancing marine environment quality of the Emirate.

In response to the challenges facing the Emirate’s marine environment, the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality in Abu Dhabi was formed in 2012 under the leadership of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi and the membership of all stakeholders concerned with marine environment. The Executive Plan developed by the Higher Committee was incorporated into the Emirate Plan, under the programme titled “Enhancing Marine Water Quality” that aims at integrating legislative and regulatory frameworks, and developing contingency plans for accidental discharges and incidents that may affect marine water.

This document, developed with the contribution of volunteers from Zayed University, highlights the achievements of the committee, describes in brief the most important projects and programmes implemented within the executive plan, and documents the role of the committee in integrating efforts among governmental entities that target improving marine water quality. We trust that this book will be a reference and source for decision makers, researchers, and readers who are interested in protecting and sustaining marine environment.

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Message

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Table of Contents

Executive Summary 12

Introduction 14

Key Challenges 18

Key Impacts 22

The Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality 26

Key Achievements of the Higher Committee 34

Executive Plan for Improving Marine Water Quality 36

The Technical Team for Improving Marine Water Quality 38

Gap Analysis Studies 50

Key Projects Implemented 60

Theme 1: Development of Institutional, Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks 60

Theme 2: Combat Marine Water Pollution 78

Theme 3: Integrated Management of Stormwater Network 104

Theme 4: Management of Temporary Labour Camps 108

Achieving Objectives and Enhancing Quality Indices 114

Communication Strategy for Highlighting Achievements of the Higher Committee 120

Awareness and Outreach Programmes 130

Acknowledgment 134

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Executive Summary

Abu Dhabi Emirate has witnessed unprecedented growth in the industrial and commercial sectors over the past few decades. High population growth rates and changes in lifestyle resulted in increased demand for water, energy and other natural resources. This was accompanied by adverse impacts on the environment in general and on the marine environment in particular, leading to a decline in the marine water quality. Fish mortality and red tide cases increased, marine water quality indicators have declined as well. The most prominent challenges were the increasing discharges to the sea, including brine from power generation and desalination plants, treated domestic and industrial wastewater, and discharges from ships and marine vessels.

In this context, the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality was formed by a decision from His Excellency Mohamed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi in 2012, headed by His Excellency, with the membership of general directors and secretary generals of all concerned local stakeholders as well as the Federal Transport Authority - Land and Maritime. The committee formed a technical team headed by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi with the membership of all concerned parties. The team developed the executive plan for improving marine water quality, which included many initiatives and projects within specific themes. The plan was approved by Abu Dhabi Executive Council in 2013.

The Higher Committee and the technical team have worked since 2012 to follow up the implementation of the projects included in the executive plan, to update the plan by proposing new projects that contribute in improving marine water quality, and to report periodically to the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of the Emirate. In addition, many educational programmes and awareness campaigns have been implemented targeting various groups as well as public and private sectors. Media plans and long-term social communication plans were developed as well to highlight the main achievements made in the field of protecting marine environment.

This document tells a success story achieved by the Higher Committee and the technical team, and documents the main achievements during the period from 2012 to 2018 in the field of protection and sustainability of marine environment. The legislative and regulatory frameworks in the Emirate has been strengthened through the promulgation of many policies, regulatory instruments, guidance documents and technical standards. In addition, all harmful discharges to the marine environment have been halted through the implementation of several projects and initiatives that have contributed to achieving the objectives and improving performance indicators.

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Introduction

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Area of Abu Dhabi Emirate out of UAE Area

Abu Dhabi87%

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Introduction

In the past few decades, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has attained significant achievements at the political, social and economic levels, making it among the developed countries. Several factors contributed in achieving this level of development. In this regard the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan considered preservation of the environment on top of his priorities. According to late Sheikh Zayed:

We have to conserve our environment and resources, to take from it only what we need for our living, and to preserve it for succeeding generations.

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is the largest emirate of the UAE with an area of 67,000 km2, accounting for 87% of the area of the UAE. The Emirate’s population in 2016 was around 2.9 million inhabitants. Abu Dhabi is bordered by the Arabian Gulf and Dubai to the north, by the Sultanate of Oman to the east, and by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the west and south.

Abu Dhabi Emirate has a rich natural heritage. Its varied geology of mountains, sandy deserts, wadis and salt flats (Sabkha) create the conditions for a diverse range of habitats, reflected in a rich variety of plants and animals. Abu Dhabi Government is committed to preserving the environment and natural resources of the Emirate in order to maintain human well-being and promote its economy in order to achieve sustainable development and growth of the Emirate. To achieve this sustainable development, it is necessary to have a deep understanding of all related issues. As the economy grows, demand for natural resources, water, energy and raw materials increases, leading to potential negative impacts on various components of the environment.

The Emirate has about 700 kilometres of coastline on the Arabian Gulf, i.e. 76% of UAE coastline on the Arabian Gulf. Its islands have several biodiverse ecosystems. The Emirate’s marine environment contributes significantly to the economic and social welfare of population. Prior to the discovery of oil and gas, the main economic activities were fishing, pearl diving and maritime trade. Today, the Emirate’s reliance on coastal activities has increased given the significant development of industrial, transport, tourism and entertainment activities. Given the continuous impact of the rapid economic and urban development on the coast, it is necessary to protect the quality of marine waters to maintain the quality of fisheries, recreational beaches, coral reefs and marine biodiversity in general.

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Key Challenges

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كما أدى إرتفاع الطلب على استهالك المياه المنزلية إلى ارتفاع ملحوظ في مياه الصرف الصحي الناتجة عن األنشطة اإلنسانية. ولعبت عوامل عديدة في العقود الماضية، من بينها محدودية

الطاقة االستيعابية للبنية التحتية من شبكات صرف صحي ومحطات معالجة مياه الصرف الصحي باإلضافة إلى ضعف الرقابة نتيجة عدم وجود التشريعات المناسبة، ما أدى في بعض األحيان إلى

حدوث تصريفات لمياه الصرف الصحي المنزلية غير المعالجة إلى البيئة البحرية. وقد أدى ذلك إلى ارتفاع مستويات المغذيات في المياه البحرية القريبة من مواقع التصريفات مما يؤثر على

االستعماالت الصناعية والترفيهية لهذه المياه.

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Key Challenges

Abu Dhabi Emirate witnessed unprecedented growth over the last decades, accompanied by high growth of industrial and developmental activities along with an increased demand for water, energy and other natural resources. This resulted in adverse impacts on the environment, particularly the marine ecosystem. As a result of high population growth and changes in the lifestyle, the demand for domestic water increased significantly, the Emirate expanded in energy generation and water desalination industry, leading to a significant increase in the highly-saline water (brine) which are discharged to the marine environment. Brine is harmful to marine habitats and biodiversity due to their high temperature and salinity, in addition to their chemical constituents.

The high demand for domestic water consumption led to a significant increase in sewage wastewater resulting from human activities. Several factors played a significant role over the past decades, including the limited capacity of the sewerage system, i.e. sewage networks and sewage treatment plants, in addition to poor control due to lack of relevant regulations, which resulted in discharges of domestic wastewater to the marine environment. Accordingly, nutrient levels increased in marine waters, leading to adverse impacts on industrial and recreational uses of these waters.

In addition, industrial expansion led to establishment of industrial zones such as the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) and Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD), where most industrial activities are concentrated. The high demand on water for industrial purposes resulted in increased generated industrial wastewater that was discharged to the stormewater network ending up to marine environment due to poor control and unavailability of industrial wastewater treatment plants. This resulted in increase in nutrients, sediments, heavy metals and other chemical pollutants that adversely affected marine water quality and marine biodiversity.

Moreover, the economic development resulted in an increase in commercial vessels and maritime transport activities, accordingly existing waterways were deepened and new channels and ports were constructed and operated. Vessel activities involve many types of discharge to the marine environment, such as ballast water, sewage, anti-corrosion chemicals, oils and fuels.

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Key Impacts

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Key Impacts

The deterioration in marine water quality in Abu Dhabi not only affects the marine environment, but the Emirate’s economy as well. The eutrophication phenomenon, i.e. excessive supply of nutrients, is one of the main challenges that threaten marine waters because it involves an increase in harmful algae, resulting in higher water turbidity and decline in dissolved oxygen levels, which in turn leads to the death of marine fauna that can’t survive low levels of dissolved oxygen. Harmful algae are considered toxic to marine fauna and humans, cause fish mortality and disrupt normal work in power generation and desalination plants by blocking filtration systems. Bloom of harmful algae may also have an adverse impact on recreational and industrial uses of marine waters.

Cases of fish deaths in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Cases of breeding of harmful algae in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Results of marine water quality showed that Mussafah southern channel was affected by the eutrophication phenomenon, decline of dissolved oxygen levels in deep water, phytoplankton bloom and fish mortality. These cases increased over the last decade, and are likely to be associated with eutrophication resulting from discharges of treated sewage effluents.

In response to these challenges, the Emirate has given due attention to reducing the negative impacts on marine water and improving its quality, given that this water is considered the main source of domestic water after being desalinated. In addition, these waterways and seaports play a significant role in boosting the national economy and regional / global trade.

Abu Dhabi Government has also developed a programme for enhancing marine water quality, as a part of Abu Dhabi plan, and assigned the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to coordinate with stakeholders to implement projects and initiatives of this programme. EAD is the competent authority responsible for protecting the environment in the Emirate. To achieve this objective, EAD has set priorities through its strategic plan as well as developing a set of key performance indicators. Moreover, EAD acts as the General Secretariat of the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality in the Emirate. The Committee was established in 2012. It consists of senior leaderships from all relevant stakeholders, and is responsible for regulating, enhancing and protecting marine water quality in the Emirate.

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The Higher Committee for Enhancing

Marine Water Quality

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The Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality

The Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality was formed in 2012 by a decision from His Excellency Mohamed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman and previous Managing Director of EAD. The committee is headed by His Excellency, and consists of senior leaders from all concerned stakeholders. Other members were added to the Committee in 2015 (Annex No. 1).

EAD acts as the General Secretariat of the Committee, and the committee assumed the main following functions:

Follow up the executive plan for improving marine water quality Ensure proper implementation and effectiveness of the executive plan

Coordinate with stakeholders to overcome obstacles and develop appropriate solutions

H.E. Director General Federal Transport

Authority-Land & Maritime (FTA)

H.E. Director General Abu Dhabi Center of

Waste Management – TADWEER (CWM)

H.E. Deputy Director General of

Police Operations, Abu Dhabi Police

H.E. General ManagerSmart Solutions and

Services Authority

H.E. Director General

Department of Culture and

Tourism - Abu Dhabi (CTA)

H.E. Secretary General Environment Agency -

Abu Dhabi (EAD)

H.E. Director General, Department of Health -

Abu Dhabi (DoH)

General Manager Industrial

Development Bureau (IDB)

H.E. Director General Abu Dhabi National

Oil Company (ADNOC)

H.E. Director General Department of

Urban Planning and Municipalities

H.E. Chief Executive Officer, Higher

Corporation for Specialized Economic

Zones, ZonesCorp

H.E. Director General Critical Infrastructure

and Coastal Protection Authority (CICPA)

H.E. Chief Executive Officer

Abu Dhabi Ports

H.E. Executive Director

Department of Transport (DoT)

H.E. Director General Abu Dhabi Sewerage

Services Company (ADSSC)

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* For more informations, please visit www.ead.ae

H.E. Undersecretary, Department of

Energy (DoE)

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The Higher Committee held its first meeting on April 1st, 2012, where the work mechanism was agreed upon and its functions were defined. All members of the committee presented the key projects and initiatives they are following up with regard to protection of the marine environment. In the meeting, the Committee directed EAD to form a technical team to develop a plan to improve marine water quality. The technical team was formed by EAD in 2013, with membership of representatives from all the stakeholders of the marine environment in the Emirate, as well as representatives of the Federal Transport Authority-Land & Maritime (FTA).

The technical team prepared the draft executive plan for improving marine water quality. The draft plan was presented at the second meeting of the Higher Committee held on March 25th, 2013. The team was directed to amend it based on discussions in this meeting and to submit it to the General Secretariat of the Executive Council (GSEC) for approval (Annex 2 shows meeting minutes of the Higher Committee). The executive plan was approved by the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi Emirate (decision no. 15 C 22/2013 dated July 7th, 2013). The decision also directed EAD to collaborate with stakeholders in order to allocate the required financial resources in their budget planning for the coming years.

Moreover, it was agreed on the following in this meeting:

Approve the formation of the technical team chaired by EAD and with membership of permanent representatives from all relevant stakeholders. The technical team shall meet and report to the Higher Committee on regular basis

Direct the technical team to study potential practical options for using treated sewage effluents (TSE) which are discharged to Mussaffah southern channel for irrigation purposes

Entities shall implement programmes and projects included in the executive plan for improving marine water quality according to the specified timeline, and ensure that budget is allocated on annual basis starting 2014

Develop Abu Dhabi Marine Water Quality Strategy and Action Plan under the supervision of EAD

EAD shall follow up decision of GSEC (Committee Decision No. 15 C 8/2013) regarding sewage discharges in Al-Dhafra region, coordinate with governmental entities to implement the proposed solutions, and report on the accomplishment level as requested by the Executive Council

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Plans, programmes and projects needed

to address the operational and

regulatory gaps in the maritime transport

and industrial sectors

Review regulations related to liquid discharges to the

marine environment and identify key gaps

Develop a unified marine water quality database on

Abu Dhabi level

Develop procedures for management and handling of

sewage and sludge that are rejected

by treatment plants operators

Develop a mechanism

for integrating environmental

inspection procedures

Develop a mechanism for implementing

and conducting environmental health

researches and studies

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Emergency response plan for accidental

discharges from marine vessels

The Higher Committee held its third meeting on June 16th, 2015 to view achievements and completed projects by all entities since the second meeting of the Committee. In addition, some regulatory and operational gaps related to the management of wastewater from the industrial and maritime transport sectors were discussed. Key future projects for improving marine water quality were reviewed and aligned by all stakeholders. Examples of these projects include:


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Key Achievements of the Higher Committee

Conduct comprehensive regulatory and operational gap analysis studies, and develop and implement integrated plans to address gaps. For example, the marine water quality regulation was developed, including technical specifications for ambient marine waters and sediments quality, and technical specifications for liquid discharges from land-based activities to the marine environment, as well as the waterways management regulation in the Emirate

Committee efforts contributed in enhancing marine water quality monitoring programmes through several initiatives, including the use of automated buoys for online monitoring, which supported decision makers to develop future plans

The committee followed up on several infrastructure projects, including the construction of new sewage treatment plants and increasing capacity of existing ones, in addition to the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (STEP)

Moreover, the committee contributed in the integration of the roles of government entities with the academic sector through the implementation of many programmes and studies, such as the institutional framework for environmental health in the Emirate, including governance, research and operations, as well as the development of the unified database and early warning system for marine water quality H

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Executive Plan Management

of temporary labour camps

Integrated management of the stormwater

network

Combating marine water

pollution

Development of institutional, legislative and

regulatory frameworks

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Executive Plan for Improving Marine Water Quality

Since its formation early 2013, the technical team has developed and implemented the executive plan for improving marine water quality, as per the directives of the Higher Committee, and submitted it to GSEC for approval.

The plan was approved by Decision of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi Emirate (No. 15 C 22/2013 dated July 7th, 2013). The decision also directed EAD to collaborate with stakeholders in order to allocate financial resources in their annual budget planning. The executive plan was included in Abu Dhabi Plan/ programme titled “enhancing marine water quality”, which aims to halt harmful discharges to the marine environment, integrate the legislative and regulatory framework of the marine environment, and develop emergency response plans for accidental discharges to the marine environment.

The plan is based on (4) main themes as follows:

Each theme includes several programmes and projects. Each project is implemented by a leading entity in collaboration with supporting entities. In addition, the expected deliverables and timeline of project implementation were defined. The technical team updated the plan on a regular basis, in terms of the percentage of work completion and addition of new projects as needed. Annex No. (3) shows an updated version of the plan.

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The Technical Team for Improving

Marine Water Quality

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Develop and update the executive plan for improving marine water quality

Implement projects stated in the executive plan

Propose projects and initiatives that contribute in improving marine water quality and identify needed

resources for plan implementation

Review technical reports on marine water quality

Coordinate with stakeholders in order to implement

the required tasks

Submit regular reports to the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality

Form task forces to follow up on specific issues as required

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The Technical Team for Improving Marine Water Quality

EAD formed a technical team led by EAD and with membership of all entities represented in the Higher Committee. Functions of the team include:

EAD sent official correspondences to all members of the Higher Committee to nominate highly-qualified and experienced representatives as members of the team. The list of team members was updated on a regular basis as representatives from other local and federal entities were added to the team, which gave the team flexibility to carry out its duties and to respond to any contingencies that require changing priorities of work. Academic qualifications of team members range from bachelor’s to PhD degrees in specialties related to the fields of work. In addition, team members have extensive technical experience covering all required fields of work, as well as excellent management skills that enable them to carry out the required work and achieve objectives of the team. Most members occupy key managerial and technical positions, which supported the procedures of decision-making and implementation (Annex No. 4 shows a list of team members for 2018).

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Update the executive plan for improving marine water quality on a

regular basis

Follow up on projects

implementation as per the specified

work plan

Propose new projects and initiatives that contribute in

improving marine water quality

Submit reports on regular basis to the Higher Committee and GSEC

Form task forces as the need arises

Stakeholders gave presentations on the progress of implementation of their projects. Tasks were assigned to team members during regular meetings. Minutes of meetings were documented and approved by the team leader before sending to all members. Tasks include defining the lead entity responsible for implementation and the supporting entities as well as the deadline for implementation. In case new members join the team, the team leader welcomes them and gives them an overview of the team and overall objectives. It is noteworthy that as a result of the continuous updating of the plan and the expansion of projects followed up by the team, the number of entities participating in the team increased from (14) in 2013 to (19) in 2018. Annex No. (5) shows an example of the minutes of meetings of the technical team.

The team also prepared progress reports on regular basis to the Higher Committee and GSEC on the progress of projects included in the executive plan for improving marine water quality. Annex No. (6) shows examples of such reports.

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The technical team held more than (15) meetings since its formation in 2013 until the end of 2018. It also formed task forces that met several times to follow up on certain topics as the need arises. Team meetings were held with the aim of following up implementation of the projects, initiatives as per the executive plan for improving marine water quality. Several meetings were held at EAD head offices, while others were held at head offices of other entities. The meetings discussed progress of different projects, the challenges been faced and how to address these.

Examples are described below:

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The diversity of experiences of the team members and the team-work spirit contributed in handling urgent issues. For example: Several cases of accidental discharges of sewage to the marine environment occurred

over the period (2012-2014), leading to deterioration of marine water quality. ADSSC, in cooperation with the technical team, developed an emergency response plan to accidental discharges of raw sewage to marine. The plan was approved by the competent authorities. This task was not included in the original executive plan

As part of the government’s efforts to reduce operational costs, the team benefited from the technical capabilities available at Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions and Services Authority (SSSA) to develop a unified database for marine water quality in the Emirate

A large number of temporary labour camps were constructed in Al Dhafra region over the past few years as a result of the rapid economic development. These camps used to discharge generated wastewater in an unplanned manner leading to pollution to terrestrial and marine environments. The team studied potential solutions and recommended mitigation measures in coordination with ADSSC and CWM. Accordingly, the number of unplanned discharge cases declines significantly

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Thanks to the extensive experience of team members, the diversity of entities they represent and the clarity of the team’s objectives, the team was uniquely positioned to address all the challenges and obstacles facing its work, including:

Financial Challenges: Several projects required financial resources that were not allocated at that time. The team estimated the required financial resources and reported to GSEC in December 2013. The required resources were allocated over the period (2014-2016). Moreover, entities estimated the required financial costs for implementing additional projects and initiatives from 2016 to 2018 according to recommendations of the Higher Committee in its third meeting

Lack of trained human resources, e.g. the number of inspectors in the Al Dhafra region: this shortage was covered by staff of the Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities that inspected and recorded violations and reported directly to EAD

In addition, the academic qualifications of team members enabled them to deal with the challenges they faced and to address them properly. For example:

Assessment of marine water quality and defining relevant indicators require certain technical specifications. The team developed in 2014-2015 environmental specifications for marine water and sediments quality, taking into consideration the available data on water quality and sediment in the Emirate, as well as the best international practices in this regard. It is noteworthy that these specifications are the first in GCC

In 2014, the National Drilling Company submitted a proposal to deepen waterways in Mussaffah area. The proposal included three alternatives for changing the discharge point of sewage to Mussaffah channel. The team used the latest scientific methods, including hydrodynamic models to assess the impact on marine water quality. It was found that all alternatives will not improve the status.


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National team for monitoring marine

and coastal environment

Committee for development and implementation of

water and agricultural strategy in the

Emirate

Permanent technical

committee for Abu Dhabi

specifications

Steering committee for development of Mussaffah

industrial area

Work of the team was integrated with work of other teams and committees in UAE and in Abu Dhabi Emirate, for example:

The team also won EAD’s Al Dana Award for Excellence, Golden Category – Technical Teams in 2016. Team members were honoured at a ceremony held by EAD.

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The Technical Team for Improving Marine Water Quality The team used state-of-the-art methods and tools to carry out the tasks assigned to it, including: automated equipment for monitoring marine water quality, advanced mathematical models, modern online databases, internationally-accredited analytical laboratories, GPS vehicle tracking system, satellite photos and remote sensing as needed, and other cutting-edge tools and methods.

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Gap Analysis Studies

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Analysis of Gaps between EAD’s Legal Authorities and Existing Mandates

In order to define initiatives and projects to be implemented along with tasks of the Higher Committee and the technical team, it was necessary to conduct studies to analyse gaps in the regulation and operational aspects related to the protection and sustainability of marine environment. EAD conducted a study in 2013 to assess and analyse its regulatory and legislative authority, tasks and responsibilities to enhance understanding of applicable federal and local laws, in addition to identify and address any legislative and operational gaps.

Scope of the study included:

Development and the environment / environmental impact assessment

Water resources and marine environment conservation and management

Soil protection, use of fertilisers and pesticides, and land use

Hazardous materials and waste management Air pollution control Biodiversity and natural resource conservation and

management UAE responsibilities under international and regional

treaties and conventions

With regard to preservation of the marine environment, the Federal Law No 24 of 1999, for the “Protection and Development of the Environment” prohibits licensed oil and gas companies from discharging any pollutant resulting from oil exploration to the land or marine environments unless they take necessary environmental measures to mitigate damage and use the latest available technologies. According to this law, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCE) shall, in collaboration with EAD (as the competent authority in Abu Dhabi) and with

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the oil and gas sector, monitor the environmental impacts of oil and gas exploration activities and set specifications for the requirements of environmental safety and management of waste resulting from oil production, transportation and exploitation.

The Marine Environment Protection Regulation issued by Cabinet Resolution No. 37 for 2001, following Law No. 24 for 1999, specifies the requirements for protection of natural marine resources such as plants, fish and other animals, as well as controlling pollution of the marine environment resulting from marine vessels, marine platforms or land-based sources. With regard to pollution resulting from vessels, ships carrying any hazardous materials heading for the UAE must inform port authorities thereof. In addition, large ships with a total tonnage of 400 tons or more or carrying at least 150 tons of oil shall be subject to strict rules and regular inspections. These large ships must comply with the legal obligations of the UAE under international conventions on the damage resulting from oil pollution.

With regard to pollution from marine platforms, the regulation requires that prior to establishment of such platforms, operators shall develop emergency response plans for any incidents that may pollute the marine environment. Such plans must be approved by the competent authority, and must specify the procedures to be followed in order to inform port authorities and other stakeholders of any incidents. The regulation also stipulates that plans must be developed for handling harmful chemicals used on platforms. The regulation prohibits dumping plastic materials and other solid waste as well as discharge of untreated sewage water around platforms.

With regard to pollution from land-based activities, the regulation sets specific technical standards for industrial liquid wastes that can be discharged to the marine environment from these sources. It also specifies a list of chemicals that are not allowed to be discharged at all because of their hazardousness and non-biodegradability.

The study concluded that there are some gaps that need to be addressed, including: Establishment of networks or programmes for monitoring

the quality of ambient marine waters and discharges to the marine environment, and defining responsibilities of the entities concerned with implementation of these programmes

Enhancing capabilities of EAD with regard to verification of compliance with federal and local laws

Developing guidelines regarding pollution resulting from oil and gas exploration activities

Developing guidelines for all permitted liquid discharges to the marine environment

Lack of legislation or guidelines for assessing the impact, severity or duration of violations. This put constrains on application of the “Polluter Pays Principle”

Implementation of outreach, educational and awareness programmes


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Analysis of Gaps in Guidelines for Liquid Discharges to Land and Marine Environment in Abu DhabiEAD is the government agency that addresses environmental affairs within the Emirate. EAD was created in 2005 pursuant to Abu Dhabi Law No. (16). The environmental framework in Abu Dhabi is defined by laws, decrees, and regulations at the federal level as well as within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. EAD derives its foundational authority from two main laws – one federal, one local. Federal Law (No. 24 of 1999) is the UAE’s major comprehensive statute on environmental protection, and serves as the starting point for understanding the environmental legal framework within the country. A crucial component of an effective environmental compliance and enforcement framework is a set of clear and enforceable laws and regulations. The laws and regulations should contain clear and unambiguous requirements or standards, with authority given to the relevant government body to enforce those provisions.

In 2015, EAD conducted a gap analysis to identify the needs to modify/update existing standards/guidelines/technical criteria that are been adopted for liquid discharges in the Emirate, and to recommend ways forward to develop new ones that are needed as a result of this gap analysis.

The identified gaps include the following: Characteristics of treated industrial wastewater at point of

discharge to the sea (Annex 8 of the Federal Cabinet Decision No. 37 of 2001) were developed long time ago and need to be revised in view of new knowledge and data available on the federal and local levels

RSB quality requirements for recycled water at the point-of-transfer or discharge to marine environment need to be reviewed in view of the ambient marine water and sediment limits that were developed by EAD in 2015

Technical criteria of recycled water discharged to land need to be developed by EAD

The MoCCE proposed early 2016 a draft decree to regulate the disposal of liquid discharges (including brine) from desalination and power plants to the marine environment. If the proposed decree is not endorsed, EAD, in coordination with the Department of Energy (DoE) will proceed with adopting the mentioned criteria on the local level

There are no technical criteria for reclaimed wastewater that can be recycled or reused for industrial purposes in the Emirate

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Marine Vessel Discharges: A Review of Sectors and RegulationsThe purpose of this study is to understand the scope of the marine vessel discharges within UAE, specifically in Abu Dhabi, and the legal authority to address those discharges. The study focuses on explaining the policy and regulatory governance, the operation of the marine vessel sector, and identifying any legal and operational gaps concerning multiple marine vessel sectors. The study considers vessels landing at commercial ports, recreational ports and marinas, and fisheries ports. Information was gathered from published documents and regulatory guidance and from a series of interviews and visits with the Federal Transport Authority - Land and Maritime (FTA), the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (DoT), the Abu Dhabi Ports, and local fishery societies and marinas.

Abu Dhabi’s marine transport is governed by a multitude of international, regional, national, and local laws and policies that is primarily overseen by FTA on the federal level, and the Abu Dhabi DoT on the Emirate level. The governing authorities range from international conventions and regional agreements, to UAE and Abu Dhabi laws and regulations, to local practices, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the Regional Organization for the Protection of the Marine Environment (ROPME), the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), FTA, DoT, Abu Dhabi ports, and local fishery societies and marinas.

Within the UAE and Abu Dhabi, there are multiple authorities responsible for licensing, inspecting, and managing vessel compliance with environmental, safety and security regulations. On the Federal level, FTA issues licenses, registers, and inspects various types of vessels, while MoCCE licenses fishermen and fishing vessels. CICPA inspects leisure and fishing vessels for proper display of identification signs. Within Abu Dhabi, DoT supervises the marine transport sector, including ports, waterways, and vessels, and assures compliance with international, national, and local conventions, laws, and regulations. Abu Dhabi ports has been delegated authority to oversee port facilities, including waste facilities, issue fines, and refer cases to court for waste violations. EAD has overall responsibility for protecting the Emirate’s marine environment, combating pollution, and inspecting fishing equipment.

Despite the involvement of multiple governmental agencies, Abu Dhabi laws clearly provide that DoT has primary jurisdiction to monitor vessels’ compliance with international marine rules, and ensure environmental protection in the marine transport sectors. Consequently, EAD should use its authority to monitor and protect the ambient marine water quality to provide data to DoT so that it can fulfill its mission of attaining the highest level of environmental protection from the marine transport sector.

In the effort to ascertain the authorities and environmental regulations for marine vessel management within Abu Dhabi, EAD identified gaps in environmental data, protocols, and authorities including, but not limited to, the following:

Gaps in monitoring and recording of vessel activities Dockside waste management issues Gaps in enforcement protocols and authority Gaps in emergency management protocols and authority designations

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Key Projects Implemented

Theme 1: Development of Institutional,

Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks

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Development of Institutional, Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks

Key Projects ImplementedThe following are the most important projects, initiatives and studies carried out during (2013 to 2018) by the technical team and the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality. (Annex No. 7 includes examples of the outcomes of these activities).

First Theme: Development of Institutional, Legislative and Regulatory FrameworksStudies of the above-mentioned gap analysis indicated the need to develop legislative and regulatory tools that contribute to the integration of legislative frameworks governing protection of the marine environment in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. In this context, strategies, policies, executive regulations, guidelines and technical standards aimed at the protection and sustainability of marine waters have been developed. Following is a summary of these.

Strategy and Action Plan for Marine Water Quality of Abu Dhabi IslandOn behalf of Abu Dhabi Government, and in collaboration with all stakeholders, EAD led in 2013 the initiative to develop this strategy based on the valuable work of the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality. This strategy combines the executive plan developed by the technical team for enhancing marine water quality, the policy framework of Abu Dhabi environmental vision 2030, and strategic themes identified during discussions with stakeholders.

Preservation of marine water quality plays an important role in protecting users of recreational activities from potential adverse impacts on human health and maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. In addition, several economic sectors, such as maritime transport, fisheries, aquaculture, tourism… etc, need appropriate marine water quality to sustain. The quality of marine water is affected by coastal development, discharges from point and non-point sources, shipping operations and oil industries. These activities and discharges caused deterioration in the quality of coastal marine waters in the past. Studies indicated relative increase in levels of nutrients (specifically nitrogen and phosphorus) and chlorophyll, leading to adverse environmental impacts on marine life, such as fish mortality due to harmful algal bloom.

In response to the increasing pressures on marine environment, an agreement has been concluded among key stakeholders in the Emirate on the strategy and action plan for marine water quality in Abu Dhabi, and on a common vision to maintain marine waters suitable for swimming and fishing activities at all times. This vision is supported by the local targets for 2018 and 2030. Stakeholders agreed on work plans necessary for achieving these targets, including initiatives to reduce discharges to the marine environment, improve marine water circulation, monitor marine water quality, respond to contingencies and incidental discharges, and ensure integrated management of marine ecosystem. It was also agreed that the Higher Committee and the technical team should supervise implementation of the work plans, and that EAD shall coordinate between entities to ensure proper implementation of plans.

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Recycled Water Management Policy In line with ADSSC’s vision to become a world leader in the provision of sewerage services by 2020, the purpose of this policy that was developed in 2016 is to demonstrate ADSSC’s intent to facilitate the maximum utilisation of recycled water in a sustainable manner. This policy also reinforces ADSSC’s assurance to provide a sustainable supply of recycled water that meets all requirements of the ‘Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations’, which in turn supports the water management strategy for efficient management and conservation of water resources in Abu Dhabi Emirate.

In association with relevant stakeholders and regulatory authorities, ADSSC shall: Aim to maximise the use of recycled water whilst minimising impact to the environment Encourage recycled water reuse where economically, socially and environmentally beneficial Meet all legal and regulatory requirements for the production and transmission of recycled water Establish supply agreements for all end-user transfer points receiving recycled water Identify the full economic value of recycled water over the long-term and investigate viable markets

for increased consumption of recycled water Develop and apply safety plans which shall ensure the protection of human health and the

environment while managing recycled water quality from source to point of transfer Establish regular quality monitoring and control measures and an effective reporting mechanism to

provide relevant, timely and accurate information Engage end-users of recycled water to ensure that their responsibilities are identified and understood Inform and educate relevant stakeholders of risks and responsibilities, to help them understand the

potential health risks and to avoid inappropriate or unauthorised use or exposure Maintain communication with all appropriate agencies and relevant stakeholders involved in the

management of water resources Assess performance against corporate commitments and stakeholder expectations to continually

improve ADSSC practices

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Following the policy, ADSSC developed a recycled water strategy that describes the numerous initiatives that the company shall implement in order to ensure the efficient and safe management of recycled water within the current regulatory framework. According to the strategy, the company shall recycle sewage water from households, companies and industries by treating it in order to produce high quality water that can be reused for irrigation, agriculture and various industrial purposes. Given the current surplus of recycled water generated quantities, the company intends to invest in infrastructure projects in order to supply recycled water to high-demand areas.

ADSSC strategy aims to:

Optimise use of recycled water whilst minimising impacts to the environment, Encourage recycled water reuse, Meet all legal and regulatory requirements for the production and transmission of recycled water, Establish supply agreements for all end-user transfer points receiving recycled water, Develop safety plans to assure recycled water quality, Establish regular quality monitoring and control measures and an effective reporting mechanism to

provide relevant, timely and accurate information, Engage end-users of recycled water to ensure that their responsibilities are identified and

understood, Inform and educate relevant stakeholders of risks and responsibilities to help them understand the

potential health risks and to avoid inappropriate or unauthorised use or public exposure, and Maintain communication with all appropriate agencies and relevant stakeholders involved in the

management of water resources.

Among stakeholders targeted are the Department of Energy (DoE), EAD, CWM, the Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities (DUPM), Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) and Abu Dhabi Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHAD).

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Recycled Water and Biosolids RegulationWaste from sewage treatment processes is considered a valuable source of water, energy and nutrients. The Department of Energy (DoE) believes that the sewage water sector should promote the reuse of recycled water and biosolids to support objectives of sustainable development in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The Regulation & Supervision Bureau (RSB) issued the recycled water and biosolids regulation in 2018, as an updated version of regulation issued in 2010, to establish the legal framework for safe and economic reuse and management of recycled water and biosolids in the Emirate. It applies to all sewerage service licensees, and distribution and supply licensees. The regulation ensures protection of the public health and environment and encourage reuse of valuable resources.

The regulation sets out procedures to be taken by licensed service providers to ensure that recycled water and biosolids are delivered to the point of transport in proper quality. The licensed service providers must meet the main requirements of the regulation. In addition, there are some activities related to regulations, including recycling of water through additional treatment stages or using it by other regulatory authorities. Any entity willing to reuse recycled water or biosolids should seek advice regarding the regulatory requirements from EAD, CWM and the regulatory authority of the relevant sector as per the Abu Dhabi Occupational Safety and Health System. The regulation requires that licensed entities to manage disposal of recycled water by drafting supply agreements, developing safety plans and setting mechanisms for monitoring these plans, as well as developing and implementing guidance, educational and awareness programmes. DoE shall ensure compliance with the regulations, collect data on the production and supply of recycled water and biosolids, and carry out arbitration in any dispute between the licensed entities and end users.

The Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulation was issued following the regulation with the aim of defining the procedures to be taken by licensed entities with regard to concluding agreements of safe disposal, and developing and implementing safety plans. The guide also defines the role and responsibilities of end users, licensed entities, and DoE. The guide was developed in consultation with licensed service providers, EAD, Adu Dhabi Department of Health and CWM. It includes provisions for the team of experts that reviews technical requirements for the use of recycled water and biosolids. The first of these provisions provides for forming a team of experienced members from concerned stakeholders to offer advice to DoE on relevant issues. Nominees to team membership must have high-level qualifications and experience as well as the power to take any decision on behalf of his/her entity.

The guide contains information about recycled water to help end users better understand the benefits and associated risks entailed from using recycled water. It also aims at providing details about the proper uses of this resource. The guide applies to management of recycled water produced in all ADSSC sewage treatment plants.

As per the guide, the disposal licensee shall be responsible for :

Providing information to the end user by specifying the quality of recycled water at the point of transfer as per requirements of the regulation,

Taking into consideration the two designated uses: unrestricted use of recycled water that involves frequent and uncontrolled exposure of the public to recycled water, e.g. in irrigating urban areas; and restricted use which involves controlled exposure, e.g. in agricultural irrigation.

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Preserve the quality of ambient marine waters and sediments by regulating the processes of liquid discharges from land-based sources to the marine environment,

Ensure sustainability of relatively high-quality water compared to the ambient marine waters and sediments specifications, and

Develop mitigation procedures for the declined marine waters quality that are to be applied to environmental impact assessment studies and environmental permitting process.

EAD responsibilities as per the regulation include: Reducing discharges by adopting legislative

frameworks aiming at fostering concepts of recycle/reuse of treated effluents

Reviewing reports and data provided by governmental agencies and industrial entities

Inspecting, auditing and verifying compliance with requirements of the regulation and environmental permit

Regular reviews in coordination with stakeholders

The regulation specifies obligations on facilities that dispose of liquid discharges to the marine environment, including: Collect and analyse water samples as specified in the

environmental permit Report to EAD on a regular basis in accordance with

the environmental permit conditions Bear necessary costs for mitigation and rehabilitation

of affected areas Use the best engineering design for discharge to

achieve the best level of diluting pollutants within the mixing zone areas

EAD will continue cooperation with regulatory entities in Abu Dhabi in order to better understand impact of discharges to the marine environment, exchange information and data, and review current discharge limits.

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Marine Water Quality RegulationAbu Dhabi long coastline combines tourism, entertainment, transportation and industrial activities. Such heavy use of coast and its water resources requires due attention to ensure protection of public health and marine ecosystem, as well as preservation of water quality. EAD saves no effort to protect the coastal and marine environment in view of the rapid development through several processes, including environmental licensing procedures, inspection of developmental projects and industrial activities to ensure compliance with environmental laws, policies and specifications, and implementing marine water quality monitoring and surveillance programmes.

In this context, EAD, in coordination with all members of the Higher Committee and the technical team, has developed environmental technical specifications for ambient marine water and sediments quality as well as specifications for liquid discharges to the marine environment as per best international practices for the protection of human health and marine ecosystem. These specifications were approved by all stakeholders in the Emirate, as per procedures of Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (QCC).

Accordingly, EAD developed the marine water quality regulation. This was reviewed and approved by all stakeholders in the Emirate. The regulation is in the final approval process following EAD procedures.

The Regulation applies to all ambient marine waters and sediments of the Emirate, along with liquid discharges from land-based activities to the marine environment. The regulation aims to:

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Regulatory Framework for Water Services Provided by TankersTo mitigate the uncontrolled and illegal discharges of raw and treated wastewater that adversely affects terrestrial and marine environments, DoE is developing a regulatory framework to control the provision of the following types of water tankering services in the Emirate: water for domestic use (including drinking water), raw wastewater, and non-drinking water (including treated sewage effluents and groundwater). The framework will contribute in regulating all water services provided by tankers. A guide for tankers will be issued, which will help control and develop the procedures of collecting and disposing of and transferring of the targeted water types.

Domestic wastewater

Drinking water distribution companiesSewerage service companiesRecycled water activities

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FillingDistributionConsumersUses of non-domestic water Treatment Collection

Domestic water

Recycled water

Domestic water

Domestic wastewater

Domestic water tankeringRaw wastewater tankeringNon-drinking water tankering

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Institutional Analysis of Environmental Health Capacities in the EmirateThe Department of Health (DoH) together with EAD collaborated in 2016-2017 to perform an institutional analysis of Abu Dhabi’s existing environmental health capacities to better understand the environmental health landscape in Abu Dhabi and develop a framework for environmental health governance, operations, and research in Abu Dhabi Emirate. The desired outcomes of this analysis include a path forward to establish clear government structures around environmental health, and the ability for Abu Dhabi entities to effectively prepare for, respond to, and perform research around environmental health issues facing the Emirate.

The analysis included an initial review of international best practices, and outcomes of interviews that were conducted with entities involved in environmental health governance, operations, and research in Abu Dhabi Emirate. Based on the review of international best practices and the findings from the interviews with representatives from key entities in Abu Dhabi Emirate, the following key gaps and areas for improvement around environmental health were identified in the areas of governance, operations, and research.

Governance: Key gap: Abu Dhabi Emirate lacks a clearly established Competent Authority regarding environmental health and lacks sufficient capacity to support the responsibilities of a Competent Authority.

Recommendations: Establish DoH as the Competent Authority on environmental health in Abu Dhabi Emirate Build capacity within DoH Public Health Division to oversee this new role, as per international

best practices

Operations: Key Gap: No coordinated effort currently exists to protect environmental health from an operational standpoint. Some entities lack operational capacity to fully carry out their mandates with respect to environmental health. In addition, no clear overarching authority exists for making decisions regarding environmental health operations.

Recommendations: Establish Environmental Health Officer/ Coordinator (EHO) positions within key entities, including

DoH, EAD, DUPM and ADFCA to increase local capacity in environmental health and to improve the Emirate’s ability to oversee and respond to environmental health issues throughout the Emirate

Provide training to EHOs and develop Standard Operating Procedures to address high-priority environmental health situations

Research: Key Gap: Many entities experience various barriers that prevent meaningful studies and research from occurring, mainly access to resources (human or financial) and to data.

Recommendations: Establish an official forum for environmental health collaboration, including a research arm that funds

research under the direction of DoH and includes participation from each entity interested and capable of performing environmental health research. Hold an annual or biannual summit to bring together experts from government and academia to discuss important issues in environmental health

Establish a dedicated fund and a research agenda for environmental health research, with the option of establishing an environmental health research entity

Establish a mechanism for data sharing to encourage research opportunities and help drive the research agenda

A key first step that should be relatively easy to accomplish will be establishing a forum for environmental health collaboration and setting the research agenda for the Emirate. A key first step that will require institutional changes and additional resources will be establishing the competent authority on environmental health.

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شهدت إمارة أبوظبي نموًا غير مسبوق خالل العقود الماضية، وقد رافق هذه الطفرة التنموية نموًا متزايدًا في القطاعات الصناعية والعمرانية، كما ارتفع الطلب بشكل كبير على الموارد الطبيعية من مياه وطاقة وغيرها. وقد أدى ذلك إلى آثار سلبية على جوانب بيئية عديدة من ضمنها البيئة البحرية. فنتيجة للمعدالت المرتفعة في ازدياد أعداد السكان وتغير نمط الحياة إرتفع الطلب على

استهالك المياه المنزلية بشكل كبير، وقد دفع ذلك اإلمارة إلى التوسع في إنشاء محطات توليد الطاقة وتحلية المياه، األمر الذي أدى إلى إزدياد كبير في كميات المياه المرتجعة شديدة الملوحة

الناتجة عن عمليات التحلية والتي يتم تصريفها إلى البيئة البحرية. وتعتبر المياه المرتجعة مضرة بالموائل البحرية والتنوع البيولوجي البحري بسبب درجات الحرارة المرتفعة لها ومستويات

الملوحة الشديدة، فضالً عن بعض المركبات الكيميائية التي تحتويها.

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Recommended Guidelines for Environmental Uses of Treated Sewage EffluentsTreated sewage effluents (TSE) can be used for different purposes; e.g. irrigation, agriculture, industry, municipal and environmental uses. Reuse of TSE has witnessed a growing attention due to the high demand for such resources. The main aim of reusing water is to optimise traditional and untraditional sources of water, and returning it to water cycle, either through evaporation or leakage in the soil.

This study was conducted by EAD in 2017. Among its mandates, and as per Law No. (16) for the year 2005, EAD should develop policies, programmes, and plans to manage disposal of liquid discharges to the environment. The objective of this study is to enable EAD to recommend science-based quality guidelines for the environmental uses of liquid discharges that take into consideration current and future uses of water and other natural resources. These guidelines should cope with requirements of federal and local Laws, and will enable EAD to develop regulatory tools that aim at protecting the environment and public health under UAE and Emirate laws.

The guidelines are applicable to all facilities and activities that dispose of liquid discharges in Abu Dhabi Emirate for environmental uses. Some international guidelines consider groundwater recharge as an environmental use, others handle it separately. Hazardous wastes are excluded from the scope of this document.

Key considerations for developing guideline values for chemical-physical properties, metals and other inorganics, organics and microbes include the following:

Establish knowledge base of liquid discharges in the Emirate: industrial activities and sewage treatment plants must provide information to EAD on the quantities and quality of generated liquid discharges

Assess uses, taking into consideration the environmental context of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi: there are a number of uses of TSE, including the agricultural, industrial, municipal and environmental uses that are common for most countries. Environmental uses include recharging groundwater reserves and preserving wetlands

Review local, regional and international regulatory approaches: EAD conducted a comprehensive review of best international practices in this regard. Specifications from more than 12 countries, including the European Union and the World Health Organization, as well as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, have been considered. These entities have developed specifications based on pollutant concentrations for protection of public health, as well as the recipient environment

Recommended specifications: these include key specifications for assessing the suitability of treated water for specific uses, particularly with regard to microbial aspects, salinity, metals and trace elements, and harmful organic matter

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78 7978


Theme 2: Combat Marine Water Pollution

80 8180

8000 12000

30000

7500

725

7500

15000

2500

225

2500

Al Mirfa

Zayed City

Liwa

Al Ghuwaifat

Ghayathi

Treatment Plant

81

Combat Marine Water Pollution

As mentioned earlier, there are a number of challenges that contributed to the decline of marine water quality as a result of the rapid growth witnessed by Abu Dhabi Emirate over the past decades. The most important challenges was the discharge of large quantities of treated sewage effluents and industrial wastewater to the marine environment. To combat marine water pollution, the Higher Committee and the technical team implemented several initiatives, projects and studies to combat marine water pollution as described below.

Increasing Hydraulic Capacity of Sewage Treatment PlantsAbu Dhabi witnessed a fast paced development over the past decades, leading to a number of negative impacts on the environment, particularly with regard to the increased quantities of domestic wastewater generated from human activities in the Emirate. In addition, there was an increase in construction of temporary and permanent labour camps, which resulted in negative impacts on the environment, particularly in terms of the uncontrolled disposal of raw and treated sewage, which in turn has negatively impacted the terrestrial and marine environments.

ADSSC established a new sewage treatment plant in Ruwais to treat the generated amounts of sewage in near-by areas. ADSSC also increased the hydraulic capacities of sewage treatment plants in Zayed City, Al Ghuwaifat, Ghayathi, Liwa and Al Mirfa. Expansion works of these plants were completed in 2018. In addition, DoE issued instructions on handling sewage generated from labour camps in remote areas. These projects and procedures contributed to reducing the illegal and uncontrolled discharge of sewage to environment in the Emirate.

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Capacity Before Expansion (m3/d) Capacity After Expansion (m3/d)

82 8382


The strategic tunnel is expected to be operated in 2019. The main benefits include:

Provide long-term solutions for sewage collection, in line with Abu Dhabi Vision 2030

Get rid of more than 35 existing sewage pumping stations located in and around Abu Dhabi Island, leading to:

Reduce contingency discharges of raw sewage Get rid of offensive odours in several sites due to operating an old sewerage system Improve environmental services Save operation and maintenance costs of 35 pumping stations

Build capacity of national human resources by collaborating with and learning from highly-experienced international consultants and contractors

Deep tunnel of (41 km) long and of (5.5 m) in diameter to transfer sewage. It starts at a depth of (24 m) and ends (80 m) below land surface. The tunnel lifespan extends to (80 years) and will meet increased demand resulting from high population and economic growth rates of the Emirate

Sewage networks of (45 km) long and (0.8 m to 3.1 m) in diameter to link 35 pumping stations to the main tunnel

A main pumping station in Al Wathba area with capacity of (1.9 million m3) daily located at the end of the tunnel

Two odour control systems

Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme (STEP)In contingency cases, raw sewage used to be discharged to the marine environment due to the lack of sufficient infrastructure that can serve urban and peri-urban areas in the Emirate. As part of the Emirate’s efforts to reduce these discharges, ADSSC implemented the Strategic Tunnel Enhancement Programme, with an estimated budget of about (AED 5.6 Billion AED). The programme involves establishment of a sewage collection and transfer network from Abu Dhabi Island, the mainland and Al Reem and Sowwah Islands to the two treatment plants located in Al Wathba area. The programme comprises of:

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Emergency Response Plan to Accidental Discharges of Raw Sewage to Marine EnvironmentADSSC has developed different scenarios for operation and maintenance works to be implemented according to the size and type of expected risks (e.g. power outages or suspension of control and data collection), and to available human resources to ensure sufficient flexibility to apply the operation and maintenance functions of vital services under emergency cases. Among key outputs of these efforts is the business sustainability and disaster and crisis management plan, in addition to an emergency response plan to accidental discharges to raw sewage to the marine environment. The main objective of the plan is to coordinate roles and responsibilities of different entities in relevant emergency cases and to protect marine environment, public health and biodiversity.

Management of Treated Sewage Effluents and Potential Uses for IrrigationGroundwater is the main source of water in Abu Dhabi, representing about (65%) of water resources, while desalinated water represents (31%) of water resources, and TSE accounts for (4%). Large quantities of TSE are currently discharged to the marine environment near Mussaffah area, resulting in negative impacts on the quality of marine waters and public beaches, in addition to increasing the pressure on non-renewable groundwater resources due to high demand on such water resource by irrigation and agricultural sectors. Worldwide, there are acceptable options of TSE reuse, including reuse for irrigation of public parks, landscaping, green spaces, forests and farms. However, the only challenge to the use of treated sewage water in Abu Dhabi is the lack of the required infrastructure to transfer TSE from point of production to areas of high demand where farms and forests are located.

According to the study conducted by EAD in 2013, it was found that the best option is to construct trunk lines with pump stations and distribution lines from treatment plants to forests and farms along Al Ain Road and Dubai Road, as well as to landscape sites in different areas within the Emirate. This would improve farm production and growth rates in forests due to the use of high-quality water rich with nutrients (e.g., nitrogen and phosphorus) compared to highly-saline groundwater, in addition to the environmental benefits of improving marine water quality by reducing discharges to the marine environment.

The study included technical and engineering assessments of all proposed solutions and alternatives for the reuse of TSE. The findings indicate that treated sewage can be used for irrigation purposes, yet this requires a detailed economic feasibility study.

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86 878786


Construction of Main Trunk Lines to Transfer TSE to Reuse SitesIn order to utilise available water resources in the Emirate in a sustainable manner, and to reduce the adverse environmental impacts of discharging TSE to the marine environment, DoE and its companies, in cooperation with ADSSC, implemented three infrastructure projects for transferring TSE from its production points to areas where it can be reused for irrigation and agriculture. The first project involves transferring about (20,000 m3) per day of TSE from Yas Island to Saadiyat Island. The project is expected to be completed by September 2019.

The second project involves transferring (140,000 m3) per day to farms located along Dubai Road (Rahba, Al Samha, Al Shahama, Al Bahya, Al Taweelah and Al Ajban areas). The work is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.

The third project involves transferring (221,000 m3) of TSE per day to agricultural areas along Al Ain Road (Al Wathba Palace, Botouk Forest, Al Azabi Forest and some farms in Al Khatim region). It is expected to complete this project by the end of 2020.

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88 8988


Potentials of TSE Reuse in Industrial and Developmental SectorsIn 2016, ADSSC issued a Recycled Water Policy to facilitate maximum utilisation of recycled water in a sustainable manner, through utilising such resources while minimising environmental and public health impacts. In 2017 the Higher Committee tasked EAD to manage a study into investigating the potential for supply of recycled water to industry. A literature review of the approaches to recycled water adopted by developed countries in relevant fields highlighted that water quality requirements for industrial processes vary according to the industry type and application, and that the most important objective in any recycling programme is to protect human health.

Stakeholder consultation meetings were held with DoE, ADSSC and IDB. These meetings have provided valuable information relating to the roles of each of the stakeholders, the current and future regulatory position regarding recycled water in Abu Dhabi, details of the treatment and distribution asset base, along with current and projected treated effluent flows, and water demand data from the largest industrial consumers in Abu Dhabi.

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) data provided by ADSSC and EAD project an increase of available recycled water of (15%) from 2017 to 2022, increasing from (687 to 793 ML/d) for the six largest WWTPs (Mafraq, Al Wathba 1 & 2, ICAD/Zonescorp, Madinat Zayed and Mirfaa). Of the (687 ML/d) of effluent produced in 2017, approximately (273 ML/d) or (40%) is recycled, with all of it used for agriculture, forests and parks. Madinat Zayed and Mirfaa WWTPs have been discounted from further analysis due to size, location and existing reuse scheme. Of the remaining four WWTP’s (Mafraq, Al Wathba 1 & 2 and ICAD/Zonescorp), additional tertiary treatment may be required to achieve 100% compliance with all of the effluent parameter standards.

A short-list of the (13) largest industrial water consumers has been selected for further consultation and investigation, (11) in the Mussaffah (ICAD) area and (2) in the Al Taweelah (KIZAD) area. Of the (13) selected, there are (5) construction material producers, (4) fabricated metal producers, (3) wood and paper producers and (1) chemical manufacturer.

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90 9190 91


Site visits to each of the shortlisted industrial entities were conducted during March and April 2018, involving the relevant operations/HSE/technical managers. The visits were used to collect information relating to water use on site, water quality requirements, variations in demand, existing infrastructure, future growth and indicative benchmarking values (e.g. volume water consumed per amount of product manufactured).

A review of potential recycled water quality, industry requirements and treatment constraints highlighted that additional tertiary and/or disinfection treatment may be required to meet microbiological, sanitary, trace element and salinity requirements. The high levels of salinity in the WWTP effluent is the biggest area of concern for industrial reuse in Abu Dhabi. The need for reverse osmosis (RO) treatment to meet industry water quality requirements will have a significant impact on the economic case for water reuse, with the high cost of operation and potential alternative brine management options being required.

Six different area-based supply scenarios have been considered for supply of recycled water to industry in Abu Dhabi. An infrastructure concept for one of these scenarios, that is, supply of recycled water from Zonescorp WWTP, was developed and costed. To minimise project risk and reduce upfront capital expenses, a staged approach has been outlined, and a number of value management options have been identified. Based on the estimated costs, using a simple payback period analysis, it will not be commercially viable to offer a discounted recycled water supply (compared to current potable water costs) without external funding.

A review of the regulatory approaches adopted internationally and in Abu Dhabi was undertaken and a number of influencing factors on recycled water scheme investment decision making were identified. These included policy, legislation and regulatory frameworks which cover environmental protection of receiving waters, water security and recycled water scheme regulation to protect public health. There are a range of regulatory options that can be (and are) used in Abu Dhabi to deliver a robust framework for the supply of recycled water, including full regulation, self-regulation, economic instruments and information and education.

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The Optimum Option for Cleaning Mussaffah ChannelGiven the lack of the necessary infrastructure for reusing treated sewage effluents, large quantities of TSE are discharged along Mussaffah southern channel, leading to an increase in the levels of harmful nutrients that result in growth and spread of harmful algae in the area. In addition, sediments are accumulated with an estimated depth of about (1.5 to 2 metres), which contain several pollutants including heavy metals.

EAD conducted a study to develop a comprehensive plan for removing these sediments in a pro-environmental manner. Study recommendations include:

Stop discharge of TSE

Clean bottom of Al Mussaffah southern channel and disposal of resulting sediments in a pro-environmental manner

Take necessary precautions when cleaning to prevent contamination and follow the best practices as shown in the following figures

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9494 95

Combat Marine Water Pollution Management Practices of Industrial Effluents in Abu Dhabi EmirateIndustrial or process effluent is wastewater from industrial sources, either as a by-product of industrial processes and/or from wash water. Untreated effluent poses environmental and health hazards due to the organic materials, microorganisms, pathogens, nutrients, and/or toxic substances that may be present. As the competent authority for the protection of the environment in Abu Dhabi, EAD conducted a study to better understand the effluent of industrial facilities in Abu Dhabi Emirate.

To achieve the objectives of the study, site visits were conducted in 2015 to obtain information on the discharge management and pathways for industrial effluent and wash water generation, treatment, and disposal. Findings indicate that industrial effluent is either discharged into the sewer system under an agreement with the designated authority, or temporarily stored in onsite storage tanks until it is either treated on-site or collected by a third party service provider. The effluent from some industrial facilities may be treated by a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) or by an industrial effluent treatment plant (IETP). On-site wastewater treatment may occur at industrial facilities that generate large quantities of effluent. Effluent that is stored in storage tanks is pumped into a tanker truck and transported for off-site treatment by a third-party environmental service provider as frequently as needed. Effluent must either be tested to ensure that it meets established discharge limits or treated in such a manner that the treated effluent meets the limits prior to disposal.

Field Survey of Industrial Facilities in Mussaffah AreaIn 2013, the Department of Economic Development/Industrial Development Bureau carried out a survey that covered about 260 industrial facilities. Maps were developed showing the disposal points of treated industrial sewage water, either to sewage networks or to the stormwater network. The main outcomes of the survey include: connecting discharges from industrial activities to the network that lead to the treatment plant in ICAD, and enforcing the environmental procedures and requirements to reduce discharges to the marine environment.

The following recommendations are based on the above findings: Develop facility-specific permit conditions for industrial

facilities that discharge treated effluent directly to the environment

Collaborate with the various agencies to increase transparency of effluent management, monitoring, and recordkeeping by coordinating with the following:

CWM to better understand the practices of third- party ESPs ADSSC to share and assess treated effluent release information and impacts DoE/ wastewater regulatory review panel to evaluate current discharge limits Develop outreach materials to educate the industrial

facilities about their roles and responsibilities

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The aim of the guide is to prevent illness associated with reduced beach water quality at Abu Dhabi hotels. The specific objectives are to provide Abu Dhabi beach hotels with:

Guidance on the minimum aspects to be addressed in hotel procedures and management plans about beach water quality

A common approach for managing health risks from sewage contaminated sea water

The scope of the guide applies to all hotels within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi that have a private beach or offer marine recreation activities such as kayaking or jet-skiing at their premises. The guide does not replace other requirements that may be issued by other authorities, including EAD, or OSHAD. It does not address:

Beach safety, for example prevention of drowning or boating accidents at beaches

Marine ecological protection Detailed procedures for marine water sampling and laboratory analysis

The document relies on a form of risk assessment based on three components: affected individuals (e.g. tourists, employees and visitors), source of danger (e.g., discharge of sewage water, red tide, etc.), and exposure pathways (e.g. skin contact by swimming, water swallow, etc.). The document defines the roles and responsibilities of beach operators (i.e. hotels), including the development and implementation of health and safety management plans, organising use of water and the beach, and implementing of programmes for monitoring and raising awareness about quality of beach waters. Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism will also be responsible for licensing hotels, approving EHS plans, and communicating with other government entities with regard to relevant issues. Responsibilities of EAD include monitoring and reporting on status of the environment, including the quality of marine and coastal waters, providing technical advice to Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism and hotels, and responding to environmental emergencies.

Management of Beach Water Quality at Abu Dhabi Hotels Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism’s vision is to create a world-class sustainable destination of distinction which enriches the lives of visitors and residents. Most hotels in Abu Dhabi have private swimming pools and beaches.

According to Abu Dhabi Environment, Health and Safety Management System, Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism is the regulatory authority of the environment, health and safety sector of hotels. The department issued, in coordination with EAD, a guiding document on water quality in the Emirate’s hotel beaches in 2014.

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98 9998 99


Hydrodynamic Model for Representation of Water CirculationAbu Dhabi coastline extends to about (764 km), and its waters include (215) islands (with an additional coastal area of 1,671 km), in addition to the diverse marine environment which is rich with wetlands and mangrove trees. Studies of marine water in Abu Dhabi indicate slow water circulation and highlight the impact of discharges of TSE and other discharges from desalination plants on water quality due to the shallow water depth in the area.

Given the rapid development and the planned projects to be constructed along the coastline, EAD receives several applications from governmental entities and developers for licensing to establish development or infrastructure projects which have direct or indirect impacts on the marine environment and coastal areas around Abu Dhabi Island. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a tool to assess these potential impacts of these projects on the marine environment and marine waters circulation along the Emirate’s coastline as well as impacts on marine water quality.

The hydrodynamic modelling and marine water quality modeling is considered one of the means used for this purpose. Therefore, upon request of GSEC, EAD started to take the following necessary actions:

Study water circulation and quality around Abu Dhabi Island and along its coastline

Develop a numerical hydrodynamic model for marine water circulation around the island and its surroundings along the coastline of the emirate of Abu Dhabi

Develop a numerical model for marine water quality around the island and its surroundings along the coastline of the emirate of Abu Dhabi

Build national and technical capabilities of EAD to be able to understand these models and assess studies submitted by developers regarding the impact of their proposed projects on the marine environment

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100 101

The objectives of the programme are to

Determine the current status of marine

waters

Monitor long-term changes or trends in quality

Develop protection and control measures for marine

water quality

Provide data that can be used for planning and for developing regulatory instruments

Confined areas

Public beaches

Ports and marinas

Marine protected areas

Desalination plants

A reference station

Water samples are collected manually from (22) stations, these are grouped into the following categories based on ecological importance and the activities or uses that occur near-by the stations:


Marine Water Quality Monitoring ProgrammesThe Higher Committee and the technical team contributed in enhancing the practices of monitoring marine water quality. In this context, three government entities represented in the committee and the team implemented programmes for monitoring marine water quality in Abu Dhabi; i.e. EAD, Abu Dhabi Ports and Abu Dhabi Municipality (ADM).

EAD is conducting a regular marine water quality monitoring programme since 2006, and the protocol has been updated over the years. The status of marine water quality is reported quarterly and annually. The main goal of the programme is to assess and monitor existing and potential marine water quality threats in order to develop measures to ensure that Abu Dhabi’s coastal waters are safe and healthy for people, plants and animals.

The stations around Abu Dhabi island where there are greater opportunities for contamination are monitored monthly. The stations outside the city and in Al Dhafra Region are monitored quarterly. In 2014 EAD started an on-line monitoring programme where three automated data buoys were operated to serve as an early warning system for forecasting harmful algal bloom in the waters near Abu Dhabi city. The buoys have sensors to collect data every hour on the following parameters: pH, Dissolved Oxygen, Temperature, Salinity and Chlorophyll-a. EAD expanded this programme by adding another eight automated data buoys in addition to the existing ones. Three water quality indices are calculated by applying a generic water quality index methodology (CCME, 2001). These are the eutrophication index (indicates the level of nutrients), the public health index (indicates the level of bacterial contamination), and the sediment index (indicates the extent of metal contamination in marine sediments).

Abu Dhabi Ports is conducting two regular monitoring programmes for marine water quality. The first one is called “Monitoring of Marine Environment and Coral Reefs”. The programme started in 2008 and consists of collecting samples manually from (10) sampling locations to monitor marine water quality, and from (85) sampling locations to monitor coral reefs and other species. This is being conducted three times a year (in January, May, and September). The second programme started in 2015 and is a continuous real-time marine water monitoring for (4) locations near Khalifa Port. The following parameters are being measured: pH, Turbidity, Temperature and Salinity.

Abu Dhabi Municipality (ADM) is conducting two regular monitoring programmes for marine water quality. The first one targets Abu Dhabi Corniche & Bateen beaches as these are “Blue Flag Accredited”. The International Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) sets specific criteria for beaches to be eligible for the blue flag certificate, among these criteria is water quality. The other programme started in 2013 and is a continuous real-time marine water monitoring for (20) locations, (10) for water quality and the other (10) for tide monitoring. The following parameters are being measured: currents speed and direction, waves length and height, pH, Turbidity, Temperature, Salinity, Chlorophyll-a and Dissolved Oxygen.

100

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Unified Database for Marine Water Quality in Abu Dhabi As a part of the efforts to align geospatial strategic projects in the Emirate under the Abu Dhabi Spatial Data Infrastructure (AD-SDI) programme that is been managed by Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions & Services Authority (SSSA), EAD and SSSA collaborated to develop a unified database for marine water quality that includes dashboards and facts sequence maps. Relevant government entities and academic bodies were identified, and meetings and technical workshops were held. It is noteworthy that all these activities were covered through an agreement between Abu Dhabi Government and ESRI company.

102 103


Several activities were implemented by the technical team to support the initiative, as follows:

Forming specialised working groups, inviting relevant government entities and listing technical requirements

Completion of the concept proof study that includes: Developing an executive spatial dashboard to display the water quality index and associated changes for specific time periods Developing innovated maps for the sequence of facts Linking the executive dashboard to available data from the system used in Masdar Institute

Cooperate with the Division of Marine Sciences and Meteorology in the General Command of Armed Forces and discuss the possibility of benefiting from the relevant systems and data

Develop a scope for the project that includes the following: Design a unified centralised spatial database according to best international practices Develop early warning system for incidents that may impact the quality of marine water using satellite photos Develop operational dashboards Develop an application for collecting field data

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CENTRALIZEDDynamic centralized database for marine water quality and supporting data

COMPLIANCEIn compliance with governmental strategic projects

GOVERNANCEFollow up on implementing relevant policies and regulations

BUSINESS CONTINUITYOffer smart geo-spatial services for day-to-day activities

SUSTAINABILITYRegular updating of the system to fulfill users needs and ensure sustainable use

Unified Database for Marine Water

Quality in the Emirate

104 105104


Theme 3: Integrated Management

of the Stormwater Network

106 107106

Integrated Management of the Stormwater Network

Abu Dhabi Municipality (ADM) has more than 60 outfalls that dispose of discharges from the stormwater network to the marine environment around Abu Dhabi Island. This water consists mainly of TSE, treated industrial wastewater and stormwater, in addition to groundwater discharges resulting from construction and dewatering activities.

Master Plan for the Stormwater NetworkADM implemented this project in 2014 - 2016. This project provided data, records and maps of the stormwater network in Abu Dhabi Island and the mainland. The municipality converted all maps of the network to spatial data, and developed a hydrodynamic model for the stormwater network. In addition, locations and maps of the linking sites between the stormwater network and the sewage network were identified. The quality of water discharged to the sea was assessed over the period from September 2014 to February 2016, samples were collected on a regular basis from stormwater network outfalls in the island and the mainland, and analysed for physical, chemical and biological characteristics. Short-term, medium and long-term management plans were developed to survey, document and manage the quality of water in the network. This contributed in controlling the negative environmental impacts around Abu Dhabi Island, and in identifying the sources and types of their pollutants.

According to the guidance, the following measures shall be implemented for the discharge of wastewater from construction sites:

Develop a comprehensive plan for liquid discharges, as a part of the environmental management plan, detailing discharges activities, equipment, discharge points, emergency response measures, and the proposed monitoring and reporting requirements

Filtration of wastewater to remove sediments and suspended materials before discharging it to the stormwater network

Inspection of the discharge site regularly to ensure that the process is adequately controlled

The guidance include certain requirements for inspection, maintenance and record keeping, as EAD conducts regular inspections and documents the findings of these inspections in the project’s environmental management plan. In addition, copies of the environmental management plan, inspection records, and all reports required by the environmental permit must be kept for at least (3) years.

Best Management Practices for Discharges from Construction ActivitiesEAD requires proponents and contractors to prepare and implement a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to ensure that construction development considers aspects of environmental protection and pollution control. Development and implementation of the CEMP is in accordance with the requirements outlined in Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 for the Protection and Development of the Environment and the Abu Dhabi Emirate Environment, Health, and Safety Management System Regulatory Framework (Decree 42 of 2009). As a part of the CEMP procedures for managing and mitigating risks for construction projects, the proponent must prepare and implement control plans that thoroughly address site-specific mitigation measures for all environmental impacts. In support of this, EAD issued a guidance document on best management practices for discharges from construction activities that is intended to provide proponents and contractors with information about the best management practices that can be used to prevent polluted discharges into the stormwater network and/or surrounding environment during construction operations.

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Theme 4: Management of

Temporary Labour Camps

110 111110 111

Management of Temporary Labour Camps

As a result of the rapid growth witnessed in the Emirate over the last two decades, temporary labour camps for large development projects were constructed in scattered remote areas of the Emirate, were sewerage services are not provided, leading to illegal and uncontrolled discharges of raw sewage generated from human activities in these camps. To address this issue, the technical team implemented some initiatives and studies as shown below.

Assessment of Improper Environmental Practices in Labour CampsLabour camps are buildings or facilities designed and constructed to provide temporary accommodation for employees and labourers working in development and construction projects. In 2014, Abu Dhabi Municipality and Al Dhafra Municipality surveyed all temporary labour camps in their areas. In the Abu Dhabi Municipality area there were (39) labour camps, most of which were allocated to private sector companies. Camps sites and plot numbers were identified. The number of residents in these camps was estimated at about (62,000) persons, with an average accommodation time of eight years. In Al Dhafra region, the municipality estimated the number of temporary labour camps at (82) sites inhabited by about (50,000) persons. The generated sewage quantities were estimated at (23,000 m3) daily.

For the purpose of assessing the potential negative environmental impacts of these camps, particularly with regard to management of sewage discharges, the ADM and Al Dhafra Municipality conducted regular inspections, in collaboration with the strategic partners from members of the Higher Committee and the technical team. Camps needs of domestic water, as well as sewage discharges were estimated. In addition, the best practices for management of these waters were defined and the possibility of whether nearby sewage plants can handle these quantities of wastewater was assessed. As a result of the lack of sewage networks in the camps areas, and the lack of approved procedures for regulating the management, collection, transport and disposal practices of these wastewaters in a timely manner, sewage was illegally discharged in the land areas or to the stormwater network. Hydraulic capacities of some sewage treatment plans were increased to handle sewage generated from these camps, and guidelines were developed to manage the issue in a proper manner as mentioned below.

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Management of Temporary Labour Camps

Moreover, the Municipality of Al Dhafra organised several awareness campaigns to enhance awareness levels of environmental impacts caused by illegal practices and the potential negative impacts on human health, the environment and infrastructure. It also took several measures to reduce these negative impacts, including:

Coordinate with large companies owning private treatment plants (e.g. ADNOC) to accept wastewater tankers disposing of sewage generated from camps to be treated in their facilities, till development of the needed corrective measures

Camps management should deal only with CWM approved service providers for hauling sewage

Coordinate with EAD, CWM and Abu Dhabi Police regarding dealing with offenders and referring them to the judiciary

Coordinate with the Judicial Department regarding the imposition of the most severe penalties on offenders

Codes of Practices and Corrective MeasuresADM and Al Dhafra Municipality developed procedures for licensing labour camps, including environmental, health and safety requirements and specifications in line with Practice Guides No. 18.0 and 18.1 issued by Abu Dhabi EHSMS in 2015 to mitigate the status at that time. These guides include several requirements, such as:

Conditions for obtaining permit

Location of the camp should be away from residential, commercial and tourist areas

Provision of suitable sources of water for domestic use in accordance with the requirements of the Emirate

Provision of systems for the collection, storage, treatment or transfer of sewage, in accordance with the requirements of DoE, ADSSC and CWM

Requirements of the design and distribution of units, services and facilities

Public health and safety requirements, including security, emergency and others

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Achieving Objectives and

Enhancing Quality Indices

116 117

100%

90%

75%

60%

45%

30%

15%

0%

MICROBIAL INDEX (2012 -2017)

75% 78%

98%82% 90% 95%

PERCENTAGE OF SITES IN THE

“GOOD”

100%

90%

75%

60%

45%

30%

15%

0%

HEAVY METAL INDEX (2012 - 2017)

62%

80%69% 75%

83% 81% 79%


“GOOD”

100%

90%

75%

60%

45%

30%

15%

0%

EUTROPHICATION INDEX (2012 - 2017)

25% 22% 18%0% 5%

45%

0%


“GOOD”

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Achieving Objectives and Enhancing Quality Indices

The main objective of forming the Higher Committee and the technical team was to improve marine water quality. There are indications of great improvements in water quality over the period 2012 to 2018. EAD assess marine water quality based on three indices, these include:

Microbial Index: It measures water quality in terms of microbial characteristics, and is calculated on a monthly basis. The following figure shows that the value of this index increased from (75%) in 2012 to (95%) in 2017, indicating major improvement in water quality. This indicates how safe becomes marine waters and their suitability for recreational activities.

Heavy Metals Index: It measures the levels of heavy metals and trace elements in marine sediments on a regular basis. The value of this index increased from (62%) in 2012 to (79%) in 2017.

Eutrophication Index: It measures the levels of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus in water. The following figure shows that the value of the index increased from (25%) in 2012 to (45%) in 2017.

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In addition, no cases of accidental discharges of raw sewage to the marine environment was recorded in 2018, while seven cases were reported in 2011. Fish kills cases in the marine waters of the Emirate declined from (9) cases in 2011 to (3) cases in 2018.

Moreover, the technical team achieved all the detailed objectives for which it was formed. In many cases, the team’s achievements exceeded what was expected as follow:

Developing and updating the executive plan for improving marine water quality: The plan was updated on a regular basis and the team submitted reports thereof to the GSEC, including performance indicators for all projects and initiatives included in the plan. Achievements of the team have exceeded what was expected as many entities in the Emirate relied on the team’s outputs in determining the projects to be implemented within the Emirate Plan/ the programme titled “Enhancing Marine Water Quality”. The team also proposed projects and initiatives that contributed in improving water quality. The team held several meetings to discuss the legislative frameworks and regulatory instruments that need to be developed. The team leader presented to GSEC in 2015 on the legislations to be developed, together with a definite work plan and resources needed for implementation

Several sub-teams were formed that included in its membership experts and consultants from members of the technical team to follow up on implementation of the recommendations to the Higher Committee

Conduct gap analysis studies in the field of liquid discharges from industrial sectors and the maritime transport sector: a study that was implemented, yet it wasn’t included in the executive plan for improving marine water quality. Based on results of the study, the team integrated the inspection and licensing procedures for industrial facilities among all stakeholders, which guarantees satisfaction of customers, in addition to saving time, effort and operational costs

The performance of the team and the objectives achieved contributed to improving the performance of all members of the Higher Committee and the technical team as follows:

The executive plan for improving marine water quality followed up by the team has clearly contributed to the development of the programme of enhancing marine water quality as part of Objective No. (18) of the Emirate Plan. The team developed frameworks of most of the projects listed in the programme and included them in the executive plan

The team contributed in enhancing the legislative role of the regulatory authorities related to protection of the marine environment, as it prepared a list of legislative instruments to be developed in this area, based on the outputs of the gap analysis studies. Work plans were developed and the required resources for the development of legislative instruments were defined, most of the identified gaps were addressed

The team contributed in enhancing the regulatory role of stakeholders, including reporting to EAD on liquid discharges to the marine environment

The team contributed in enhancing the regulatory role of EAD, examples on this is the environmental licensing of all sewage treatment plants, and the consolidation of licensing procedures of industrial facilities in ICAD and KIZAD

The team contributed in halting all illegal industrial discharges to Mussaffah southern channel, and ensured commitment of industrial facilities to requirements of safe disposal of industrial waste through environmental services providers certified by CWM

The budget allocated to the team contributed in development of marine water quality monitoring programmes, including the provision of modern automated online monitoring equipment

Achieving Objectives and Enhancing Quality Indices

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Communication Strategy for

Higher Committee

Highlighting Achievements of the

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The task force is responsible for the following:

Development of long-term media plans and social communication plans to highlight the achievements

of the Higher Committee

Follow-up on the implementation of plans and oversee the development of relevant media

programmes

Report on regular basis to the

technical team

Identification of financial and administrative

resources required to

implement the plans

Documentation of all outputs of the media

plan and social communication

plans

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Department of Economic Development (DED)

Abu Dhabi Smart Solutions and Services Authority (SSSA)

Department of Health - Abu Dhabi (DoH)

Department of Transport (DoT) Department of Energy (DoE)

Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities (DUPM)

Abu Dhabi Police GHQ Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) Abu Dhabi Ports Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services

Company (ADSSC)

To highlight main achievements of the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality, a communication task force was formed in line with forming the Committee, and in view of the continuous development of activities related to the marine environment in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The task force is chaired by representative of EAD, and comprises representatives of the following entities:

The task force developed a media plan aiming to:

Promote and raise awareness among different groups of the society about the importance of maintaining marine water quality in the Emirate, and the measures to be taken to protect marine water quality

Highlight achievements of the Higher Committee and the technical team

Promote the efforts and projects implemented by members of the Committee as part of the executive plan for improving marine water quality

Communication Strategy

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The approved key messages included in the media plan are as follow:

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Abu Dhabi Government is committed to ensure a healthy, sustainable and pollution-free marine environment by adopting best international practices, in cooperation with all stakeholders in the Emirate

Maintaining marine water quality is one of the main priorities of Abu Dhabi Government

Members of the Higher Committee work in accordance with the Emirate plan to create a sustainable environment and optimise resources to preserve natural heritage through implementation of projects and programmes to improve marine water quality

High quality marine water is necessary for recreational activities, desalination, commercial fishing and biodiversity of our marine environment and for sustainable coastal development

The Higher Committee was established with the aim of ensuring consistency of efforts to improve the quality of marine water and reduce risks to marine environment, given the rapid economic growth

Functions of the committee include developing environmental regulatory framework as well as short and long-term plans to protect marine water quality

Since its formation, the Committee made many achievements in improving marine water quality in Abu Dhabi

Generally, the quality of marine water in Abu Dhabi Emirate is good

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Marine life in the Emirate is rich with biodiversity and shelters several species of marine mammals. In addition, it is considered as a natural habitat for many species of birds and turtles. The ambient marine waters are considered important habitats of coral reefs, seagrass, algae and mangroves, as well as seabachs and saline surfaces in the tidal areas

Abu Dhabi marine area is about (50,000 km2), and its coastline is more than (700) kilometers long. About (500) species of fish live in UAE waters, and there are more than (16) kilometers of shores suitable for nesting of sea turtles in the Emirate. However, our marine waters are subject to many threats, including discharges from different activities like commercial vessels, drilling, and land reclamation

Supplies of domestic water in Abu Dhabi are provided through major desalination plants. Seven desalination plants produce about (3.2 billion liters) of domestic water per day. In addition, there are many small desalination plants along the Emirate’s coastline. Desalination plants discharge highly saline brine of relatively high temperature to marine water, which have adverse impacts on marine habitats

Every year, about 35,000 commercial ships move through the Emirate’s territorial waters, many of which discharge their waste to the marine environment

Current pressures on the Emirate’s marine water include coastal development and construction activities, ports development, maritime transport and commercial shipping, and discharge of treated sewage effluents, industrial wastewater and brine from desalination and power plans, as well as other natural factors such as sandstorms. Climate change and sea level rise may also interact with these pressures to adversely affect marine water quality

The eutrophication phenomenon is one of the main challenges that threaten marine waters because it involves an increase in harmful algae, resulting in a negative impact on marine ecosystem, as they cause fish mortality and oyster poisoning, and may disrupt normal work in desalination plants by blocking filtration systems

Cargo freight activities involve many types of discharge to the marine environment, such as ballast water, sewage water, marine ship anti-corrosion chemicals, cleaning materials, oils and fuels

Water quality declines in closed areas due to weak flow or circulation of water and the impact of industrial discharges, erosion and vessel maintenance activities

The sub-messages of the media plan are as follow:


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The media plan developed by the task force targets the following segments:

The public, including visitors of beaches and educational institutions

Private sector, including operators of beaches and industrial activities

Decision makers

Concerned partners and government entities

The media

The task force cooperated with the technical team to develop a logo for the Higher Committee, in addition to approving the Hashtag (#Preserve_Our_Sea) for the media campaigns. The task force also developed a media plan, including the key media activities to be implemented in 2018 – 2019.

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Awareness and Outreach Programmes

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Awareness and Outreach Programmes

Awareness and Outreach CampaignsTo promote the concepts of conservation and sustainability of the marine environment, EAD carried out many outreach programmes and awareness campaigns over the past few years which targeted different groups, and issued several brochures and booklets targeting school students in particular. Examples of these activities include:

Training and technical workshops targeting fishermen and school students

Develop informational designs and infographics for enhancing public awareness levels on issues related to marine environment

Participate in local and international events and expos, including the Mother of the Nation Festival, Abu Dhabi Science Festival 2016, and ADIHEX 2016

Utilise social media tools to enhance awareness about the need to preserve dugongs

Cleaning campaigns of the marine environment targeting public beaches, which were launched in cooperation with local entities including ADNOC, Abu Dhabi Ports, Emirates Diving Association and Hilton Hotel

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AcknowledgmentThis document is developed by all members of the Higher Committee for Enhancing Marine Water Quality in Abu Dhabi Emirate. Thanks to contributions of many experts from the technical team led by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi and all stakeholders who reviewed it and provided feedback and valuable comments that enhanced the report’s quality, as well as many partners who participated in meetings and discussions during preparation of the document.

The Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi would like to thank a group of young volunteers who helped the technical team in the completion of this document, which gave them the opportunity to build their capabilities, and benefit from the transfer of knowledge and training they got to be well prepared for holding unique future positions. These are:

Mariam Al Marzouki Ghadeer Al Katheeri Kholoud Al - Jaberi Amna Al-Romaithi

Environment Agency - Abu DhabiSalem Al Braik (Chair)Abdulla Al RemeithiAhmed Al JassmiWael SuleimanMohammad MosaDr. Mohamed DawoudAbdul Salam Al HashmiIbrahim Al AliAhmed Al AliAbdulla Al HammadiShaikha Al MazroueiKhalfan Al SuwaidiAhmed Al WaheebiYasser Othman

General Secretariat of the Executive CouncilMona Al Ameri

Department of EnergyMahmoud Abushawish Mohammed Younes Tansel Derya Mariam Al SuweidiMazin ElgaaliDr. Shamma Al MalekFahd Shehhi

Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services CompanySultan Al ShareefRaed Hardan Omar Al Katheeri

Industrial Development BureauNabeel Al Awlaqi Khawaja HassanWaleed Al Hosani

Abu Dhabi MunicipalityKhaled Al SukhniKhaled Aljunadi Abeer Al JuneibiYousef Al Ali

Al Dhafra MunicipalityDr. Djelloul Bellahouel

Center of Waste ManagementFaris Al MunaieiMuhsen Al HaririAbdul Aziz Al Jaberi

Department of HealthDr. Jens Thomsen Latifa Al Shamsi Areej Al Haj

Abu Dhabi PortsMohamed Al TamimiThaer Khalil

Department of TransportKhalid Al HaddabiSalem Al MehairiHaitham Alzaareer

Abu Dhabi PoliceKhaled MraishHazza’a Ben Rfai’s

Department of Culture and TourismAhmed Al JedeidiAhmed Al Zaabi

National Emergency Crisis & Disaster Management AuthorityMatar Al QasmiAbdulla Al Falasi

Federal Transport Authority-Land & MaritimeDr Saud Al JenebiOsama Sultan

Abu Dhabi Smart Solution & Services AuthorityNadia Al Thaibani Essam Shedamy

MASDAR InstituteDr. Marwan Al Tamimi

Abu Dhabi National Oil CompanyEntisar Al Katheeri

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www.ead.ae

[email protected] + 971 2 693 4444 PO Box 45553 • Abu Dhabi • United Arab Emirates

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Protecting and Sustaining Marine Water Quality in Abu ... · Abu Dhabi Protection of the marine environment and ensuring its sustainability for future generations is a strategic priority