Amman: Minister of Environment Ayman Suleiman emphasized the importance of protecting the Dead Sea, describing it as a unique national, environmental, and economic asset. He called for national and international efforts to prevent its degradation, underscoring the role of scientific research in understanding environmental and seismic changes and developing practical solutions.
According to Jordan News Agency, Suleiman made these remarks during a seminar entitled "Environmental Challenges and Seismic Issues in the Dead Sea: Reality and Solutions," organized by the International Research Center for Water, Environment, and Energy at Al-Balqa Applied University. The event, held in collaboration with the Generations Forum for Cultural Creativity, was attended by the university president, Ahmed Ajlouni, along with experts and researchers in environmental, water, and energy fields.
Suleiman highlighted the necessity of supporting research on the declining water levels in the Dead Sea and their environmental and economic impacts. He pointed out that such studies are critical to formulating a comprehensive national plan to preserve the Dead Sea and ensure the sustainability of its resources.
Ajlouni noted that the seminar aligns with the university's vision to tackle sustainable development challenges through applied scientific research. The goal is to establish the university as a national center of expertise in water, energy, and environmental studies through specialized research centers and partnerships with relevant national and international institutions.
Omar Arabiat, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Environment, warned of the multiple environmental and natural risks facing the Dead Sea's shores, primarily due to climate change and human activities leading to declining water levels. He stressed the need for coordinated efforts among governmental, academic, and community bodies to implement programs aimed at mitigating environmental degradation and preserving the area's natural and touristic value.
Walid Qutaish, president of the Generations Forum, underlined the significance of collaboration between universities and civil society institutions to raise environmental awareness and promote resource conservation. He emphasized the forum's role in supporting national environmental initiatives and enhancing cultural contributions to sustainable development.
Experts Najeeb Abu Karak and Saad Abu Hammour delivered a lecture on the continuous decline of the Dead Sea's water levels, attributing it to excessive water use. This has led to sinkholes, land collapses, and receding shores, as well as seismic activity along the region's active fault line. They called for continuous preparedness and prudent risk management.
The seminar concluded with recommendations for collaboration among governmental agencies, academic institutions, and civil society organizations. The aim is to develop a comprehensive and sustainable national strategy to protect the Dead Sea from environmental and geological degradation while leveraging its natural potential to boost Jordan's economy and preserve this unique environmental heritage.