Assistant undersecretary for Environmental Affairs at MoECC, Hassan Jumaa Bu Jamhour al–Mohannadi, stated that the ministry is currently reviewing and amending current environmental laws to tighten penalties for certain environmental violations.
The new strategy for the environment, climate change and sustainability has the same goal as the toughening of sanctions. Al-Mohannadi explained to local Arabic newspaper ‘Arrayah” that the focus on protecting the Qatari environment and natural resource and deterring those responsible for environmental abuse is the main objective.
He said that all violations that have an impact on the environment will be included in the strengthening of sanctions and that they will not be restricted to one type of environmental violation. He said that there will be no complacency when it comes to addressing environmental violations. Official noted that the MoECC has an environment prosecution, which is evidence of the seriousness of the State’s concern for the preservation of the environment. He stated that the presence of an environment prosecution will speed up the process of taking legal action in cases of environmental violations.
He explained that the camping season raises awareness and culture about environmental issues, particularly among youth, who get lots of information about the Qatari environment and local trees and plants, and how to preserve them. He stressed that the number of violations witnessed this year during the camping season is lower than in previous years. This is the result of raising awareness among citizens about the importance of conserving the environment.
Al-Mohannadi spoke out in support of Qatar’s strategy on climate change and environment. He said that the strategy was built in the spirit co-operation, solidarity, perseverance. It was attended by 20 representatives from different ministries. Studies and benchmarking comparisons were made that included approximately 30 countries. It also saw the participation of more than 50 experts and specialists from all over the world.
He pointed out that the strategy focuses on five areas of environmental priority: biodiversity, greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution; water; circular economy; waste management; land use. He said that the first pillar requires cooperation at both the global and regional level to reduce emissions. Qatar has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030.”To achieve this goal, we will adopt low-carbon technologies and solutions based on natural resources,” he added.“Reducing greenhouse gas emissions will lead to many benefits, most notably improving air quality.”
Official: Enforcement of environmental law to curb violations
