Muscat: The Environment Authority is organizing a two-day international workshop on the safe management of hazardous chemicals. The workshop, held in Muscat, aims to achieve sound chemical management, a key element of sustainable development, in alignment with the strategic goals of Oman Vision 2040. The event was inaugurated by Sayyid Saud Hilal Al Busaidi, Governor of Muscat.
According to Oman News Agency, the workshop, in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), marks progress in implementing the Minamata Convention on Mercury. It provides guidance on finding alternatives to mercury and reducing the risks associated with this hazardous substance, impacting both health and the environment.
The workshop also saw the launch of the "National Strategy for Integrated Management of Hazardous Chemicals in the Sultanate of Oman." This strategy underscores global practices and research outcomes in the field, forming a cornerstone of sustainable development. It aims to balance the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability.
The strategy presents a national roadmap for the safe management of chemicals, covering production, manufacturing, handling, transportation, storage, processing, and disposal of hazardous materials. The workshop features 18 working papers examining Oman's experience with chemical and mercury management, the challenges faced, and the systems and technologies employed in treatment processes.
In addition, the workshop outlines the role of the Directorate General of Customs in monitoring chemicals at border crossings and standard procedures for transporting and storing hazardous materials and mercury. It also addresses the risks of using mercury in agriculture.
A report on the preliminary assessment of mercury propagation is reviewed, along with the national strategy for chemical management in Oman. The country does not produce mercury or its compounds; however, the substance is imported through certain industrial products and devices.