The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is the first environmental authority in the Middle East and North Africa (NENA) region to achieve over five consecutive years the ISO 16133:2018 accreditation for its soil quality monitoring programme.
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 (GIS) statistical analyses to select and distribute sampling sites for optimal representation and achieve the programme’s objectives.
During 2024, EAD increased to 664 the number of sites monitored – up from 100 in 2018 – which reflects the comprehensive nature of the programme and its ability to provide detailed insights into soil conditions across Abu Dhabi. Additionally, the Agency has integrated artificial intelligence and remote-sensing technology by 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 in identifying soil pollution sources, assess the extent of contamination and implement corrective actions, leading to improved soil quality and sustainable land management.”
He added: “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. The Agency is an active participant in international forums such as Committee for the Review of the Implementation of the Convention (CRIC) 21 and contributes to global environmental goals.