en.Wedoany.com Reported - Egyptian Minister of Local Development and Environment, Manal Awad, reaffirmed the commitment to protecting the unique marine ecosystem of the Red Sea, emphasizing the significance of its rich biodiversity and coral reefs for sustainable development and ecotourism.

During a meeting with representatives from the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA), Awad noted that protecting these natural resources has become increasingly important amid growing environmental challenges and the impacts of climate change. The meeting, which brought together HEPCA Scientific Research Advisor Mahmoud Hanafi and Association Director Nour Farid, focused on ongoing efforts to protect the marine ecosystem and strengthen cooperation between the government and civil society organizations involved in conservation and biodiversity initiatives.

Discussions centered on several projects implemented by HEPCA, including coral reef protection, marine wildlife conservation, solid waste management, and initiatives supporting local communities. The representatives outlined the various stages of waste collection, transportation, and management, noting that the area generates approximately 400 tons of waste daily. They also reviewed efforts to support environmental initiatives, covering marine ecosystem research, biodiversity conservation projects, and the installation of marine mooring buoys aimed at reducing damage to coral reefs and enhancing their protection.

Awad instructed the Waste Management Regulatory Authority, the Red Sea Governorate, and HEPCA to enhance coordination, assess existing waste management systems, identify key challenges, and develop actionable measures to improve efficiency and long-term sustainability. She also emphasized the need to complete necessary infrastructure and expand recycling capacity to increase environmental and economic benefits.

The meeting reviewed HEPCA's marine mooring buoy program, which aims to protect coral reefs by preventing tourist and diving boats from anchoring directly in sensitive reef areas. The representatives noted that approximately 1,400 mooring buoys have been installed in the Red Sea region, supported by ongoing maintenance efforts to keep the system operational. Discussions also covered plans to upgrade the network to accommodate larger tourist vessels. Awad called for support to expand the mooring buoy system in South Sinai, emphasizing the importance of ensuring sustainable maintenance and adequate funding.

Participants also discussed the shark tracking project implemented by the Egyptian Nature Conservation Sector in cooperation with HEPCA. Hanafi explained that tracking devices have been installed on multiple sharks to collect scientific data on their movements, behavior, and distribution within the Red Sea, helping researchers better understand and protect the marine ecosystem.

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