Fishing nets and rubbish cleared from Sharjah coast

Marine clean up part of wider conservation project

Marine conservation is beginning to gather momentum across the UAE.

In Sharjah, a marine conservation project has recently been completed with a day of action led by the Sharjah Museums Authority’s aquarium department and removed 6 tonnes of rubbish.

The waste included discarded fishing nets and lines around Souq Al Jubail.

By educating families, especially children, the campaign hopes to create a community of environmentally conscious individuals who care about the cleanliness and natural health of not only Sharjah, but the entire UAE.

Held at different locations throughout Sharjah, each year the campaign removes large amounts of waste from the emirate’s beaches and underwater areas.

Litter and rubbish, from household waste to discarded plastic and even larger items like abandoned bicycles and cars has been found to be creating a problem for marine life.

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The annual campaign is focusing on discarded waste from fishing boats in 2018, as fish, birds and other animals become entangled in discarded nets, cages, marker buoys and fishing lines.

“Litter, rubbish and other forms of waste pose a serious problem to not only wildlife but also to people as well,” said Rashed Al Shamsi, Curator of Sharjah Aquarium.

“This year’s focus on clearing the waters of litter and rubbish will benefit the marine life greatly and present a better image of the area.

“The natural environment is fragile, but if we all do our bit, we can have a massive impact and make sure Sharjah remains beautiful.”