The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has received the ISO 16133:2018 accreditation for its soil quality monitoring programme, the first environmental authority in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to do so for five consecutive years.
The programme, launched in 2018, systematically monitors soil quality across Abu Dhabi. It encompasses 656 sites and analyses over 1,376 samples to screen more than 35 elements and pollutants, aiming to identify the impact of human activities on soil quality and guide future soil management and regulatory policies. The programme employs advanced geographic information systems analysis to select and distribute sampling sites for optimal representation and achieve the programme’s objectives.
During 2024, EAD increased the number of sites monitored to 664, up from 100 in 2018, reflecting the comprehensive nature of the programme and its ability to provide detailed insights into soil conditions across Abu Dhabi. Additionally, EAD has integrated artificial intelligence and remote-sensing technology, using drones to monitor the soil and predict soil contamination.
Faisal Al Hammadi, Executive Director of the Environmental Quality Sector at EAD, said: "Our soil monitoring programme provides critical data to inform soil management strategies and policies, leading to better soil health, improved human health, and enhanced environmental sustainability in Abu Dhabi. Artificial intelligence techniques were also adopted in the programme, which contributed to identifying soil pollution sources, assessing the extent of contamination, and implementing corrective actions, leading to improved soil quality and sustainable land management.
"As a result of EAD’s ground-breaking soil monitoring programme, we are the first environmental authority in the Middle East and North Africa region to achieve the ISO 16133:2018 accreditation for five years in a row, demonstrating the programme's adherence to international standards and our leadership in soil quality monitoring."
Monitoring is conducted through scientific sampling methods across different land use types, using ISO accredited methods. The programme supports the UAE's efforts to fulfil the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) agreement and pursue land degradation neutrality. EAD is an active participant in international forums, such as the Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC) 21 and contributes to global environmental efforts.
