Crushing plants, quarries need to be eco-friendly

A new law regulating the environmental impact of crushing plants and quarries in the UAE has been issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Law No20 of 2008 obliges currently existing plants to bring their facilities in harmony with provisions of the law during a period not exceeding one year. The law also said licences should not be issued unless the plant obtains a permit from the local body concerned with the environment as well as the Federal Environment Authority.

The law authorised local environment bodies to organise with the FEA to set daily working hours of plants as well as to determine when work should be temporarily stopped in case of bad weather conditions to prevent the spread of dust. Local bodies will also monitor if work should be halted when systems used to curb dust break down or undergo maintenance.

The law banned the use of radioactive or chemical sources or systems containing radioactive sources without obtaining pre-approval from the authority concerned. All types of explosives were banned as well.

Minister of Environment and Water Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad said the law reflects the UAE's keenness to curb the negative effects of development activities to preserve public health and the environment. (Wam)

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