The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has signed a terms of reference document with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to work together for the improvement of air quality control in Abu Dhabi.
The document sets a framework for collaboration on data exchange and the preservation of air quality through the use of all means available to both parties.
The document is a follow-up to the Memorandum of Understanding that EAD signed with ADNOC in 2012 to strengthen collaboration on environment preservation in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Eng Bakheet Salem Al Ameri, manager of the Health, Safety and Environment Division at ADNOC, and Eng Shaikha Al Hosani, deputy executive director of Environmental Quality at EAD , were signatories to the terms of reference document.
The terms of reference set procedures for electronic linking (E-linking) of the central databases for air quality monitoring networks owned by both parties. In addition to outlining processes, the terms also included the development of a detailed schedule agreed by experts from both parties to complete the E-link within a specified period of time.
The terms define that the E-linking project will see the database being updated every hour at the ADNOC monitoring stations in Al Mubarraz Island, Sas Al Nakhl Island, Ruwais, Madinat Zayed, Ghayathi, Liwa, Asab and at any future stations to fall under this agreement.
EAD had recently announced the completion of phase 1 of the E- linking project at a meeting it with its strategic partners from government entities that operate air quality monitoring stations on both the local and federal levels.
The project, which falls under EAD’s strategic projects, aims to provide in-depth information on air quality to facilitate a more comprehensive and integrated understanding of air quality, pollutants and emission sources.
This exchange of knowledge and expertise in the field of air quality monitoring will help shape the plans and programmes needed to reduce emissions and improve overall air quality in the Emirate.
The project is in line with the outcomes of the Ministry of Environment and Water brainstorming session. The UAE-wide air quality network, was approved and launched by the UAE Cabinet under the chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in a meeting that was held in October 2014.
“This E-linking is in-line with ADNOC vision that ensures its commitment in contributing to the comprehensive sustainable development plan of the Emirate,” Ameri was quoted as saying in a press release. “ADNOC takes a leading part in the tangible efforts and collaborations by all stakeholders in consolidating initiatives and available resources for the protection of the environment.”
