MUSCAT: The Environment Authority has signed a contract with MSA Green Projects Company for the implementation of ‘Oman Blue Carbon’ – an initiative that calls for the planning of around 100 million mangrove trees across the Sultanate of Oman.

The project is the first of its kind in Oman to utilize mangroves for carbon credits. It stems from the national strategy for achieving zero carbon emission by 2050. It constitutes a trend towards improving environmental performance and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

The contract signing took place at a ceremony held at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, under the auspices of Dr. Saud Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. It was attended by government and private sector representatives and researchers in biodiversity.
The 4-year project is expected to generate economic and financial revenue of about $160 million. It is anticipated to cut down carbon dioxide emissions by 14 million tonnes and bring about significant improvement in natural habitats, alongside benefits for local communities.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, and M. Atwal, CEO of MSA Green Projects.
The Oman Blue Carbon Project revolves around land reclamation and the development of artificial lakes suitable for growing more than 100 million mangrove trees in the Al Wusta Governorate on an area of 20,000 hectares, which will be converted into mangrove forests, said Al Amri.

He pointed out that direct gains from the project include the realization of blue carbon credit certificates in favour of the Environment Authority, to the tune of $160 million, in addition to the development of eco-tourism sites, among other advantages.

Source: Oman News Agency

Date: 16 October 2023