By Abbas Nazil
Oman has unveiled a national strategy to address marine debris, a move aimed at safeguarding the country’s marine environment, ensuring navigational safety, and strengthening its maritime sector.
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) announced the initiative, describing it as a pioneering step toward cleaner seas and a sustainable future.
The strategy focuses on protecting marine ecosystems, enhancing safety at sea, allocating resources for debris management, coordinating national institutions, and developing emergency plans in line with global standards.
According to Omani Maritime Law (Royal Decree No 19/2023), marine debris refers to ships and their appurtenances that are abandoned, sunk, or grounded in Omani waters, including items once on board.
The strategy seeks to provide clear legal and operational frameworks to tackle this issue effectively.
Among the key measures outlined are the creation of a national marine debris database, assessment of environmental impacts, awareness campaigns for stakeholders in the maritime sector, and strict regulation of debris removal and disposal.
Training specialists and boosting collaboration with international organizations are also central elements of the plan.
To complement these measures, MTCIT revealed plans to establish ship recycling and dismantling facilities that will adopt green technologies.
An economic feasibility study is underway to support these facilities, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to environmentally sustainable maritime practices.
In addition, the ministry has signed concession agreements with leading global companies in port management, development, and operations to enhance performance in the maritime industry.
It has also issued licenses for the establishment and operation of marine docks outside the main ports, designed to stimulate innovation and efficiency in maritime infrastructure.
Experts have welcomed the strategy as a crucial advancement.
Dr Salim al Harthy, a marine environmental scientist, emphasized that marine debris represents not only an environmental hazard but also a navigational threat.
He noted that the creation of a national database would allow authorities to identify high-risk zones, respond to incidents more quickly, and mitigate risks to biodiversity and coastal livelihoods.
Capt Ahmed al Riyami, a maritime safety consultant, highlighted coordination challenges between multiple agencies as a persistent obstacle in debris management.
He said that the new strategy establishes a clear chain of responsibility backed by legal authority, which, if implemented successfully, could position Oman as a leader in maritime environmental management in the region.
MTCIT underlined that strict regulation of debris removal and disposal is critical given the environmental and economic consequences of mismanagement.
The ministry reaffirmed that Oman is setting high standards and controls while providing the necessary funding, training, and advanced technology to ensure success.
