Environmental study shows ‘no harm’ to the vegetation at EMAL and nearby communities

An independent study into the health of vegetation in the vicinity of Emirates Aluminium (EMAL), has determined that ‘no harm’ has been caused to the vegetation from EMAL’s operations.

This study was conducted by Professor Alan Davison, a renowned international expert who has undertaken similar studies at other aluminium smelters. Professor Davison, an emeritus professor from Newcastle University in the United Kingdom, assessed if any damage to the vegetation had occurred from air pollution, by conducting a visual study of vegetation to analyse the effects of fluoride emitted from the Al Taweelah smelter. Prof Davison’s study concluded that there was no significant impact on the either vegetation or animal life in the vicinity of EMAL. 

“From the beginning environmental protection has been at the core of all we do at EMAL. The vegetation around our facility provides an important source of data. They are highly sensitive and provide an excellent visual record of the impact of our operations on the local environment. It is vital that we ensure the flora is healthy and we minimise our impact on both the environment and local community.” said Saeed Fadhel Al Mazrooei, President and CEO of EMAL.

This is the first round of Professor Davison’s specialised study with a focus on EMAL’s Phase I development. A second study will be conducted at a later stage to examine Phase II expansion, as we see EMAL develop into one of the world’s largest single-site aluminium smelters. The study is required in order to comply with EMAL’s Operational Environmental and Social Management Plan (OESMP) and part of EMAL’s sustainability strategy.

As well as carrying out the study Professor Davidson also recommended control measures to enhance environmental protection and provided guidance to EMAL’s environmental staff on how to study and monitor vegetation, as part of EMAL’s continued compliance with local regulation.