ESO and Oman Shell Collaborate to Protect the Rich Biodiversity and Heritage of Frankincense Habitats

The Environment Society of Oman (ESO) and Oman Shell recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support and promote the research and conservation of wild frankincense tree populations in Oman. These Boswellia sacra trees produce the finest frankincense gum resin valued worldwide for its medicinal properties and used as a source of incense and perfumery. For thousands of years, these unique trees have played an essential role in Oman’s biodiversity, cultural heritage, traditions, and economy. This species witnesses human-induced environmental pressures in some part of its range in Dhofar.

The partnership between ESO and Oman Shell aims to support the monitoring and
surveying of frankincense tree populations at key sites across Oman. ESO will also work
closely with national and local entities to raise awareness among communities about the
tree’s ecological value, and threats facing the trees, such as over-harvesting and habitat
loss, while sharing best and low-impact harvesting practices. Another aim of the
partnership is to improve the national capacity to monitor and manage frankincense trees
and their habitats.

Suaad Al Harthi, Executive Director at the Environment Society Oman, said, “Frankincense
has been an integral part of Oman’s environmental, cultural, and economic identity for
centuries. Frankincense is recognized for its unique trade that flourished in this region as
one of the most important trading activities of the ancient world. To this day, it remains a
sought-after commodity for its cosmetic and health values’”.

She added, “Yet, there is a growing tree conservation concern due to several complicating
factors. Therefore, we would like to thank Oman Shell, who, through this collaboration,
enable us and other concerned entities to study, monitor and manage the frankincense tree
populations. We will also reach out to local communities to highlight the tree’s ecological
value and the importance of sustainable harvesting practices and conservation techniques.
This project will allow us all to become more efficient and innovative in protecting these
sacred tree populations and their habitats.”

Malak Al Sheibani, General Manager of Corporate Relations at Oman Shell, said, “At Shell,
we are convinced that environmental awareness and education can result in environmental
conservation and more sustainable practices. We believe that there is a lot we can do at the
community level, so we are taking part in several national and grassroots initiatives aiming
to make a real difference. We are thrilled to be part of this project with the Environment

Society Oman and support them in protecting this tree species that is a unique part of our
beautiful and biodiverse country.”

Despite their recognized significance, frankincense trees face many threats including
overgrazing, overharvesting, insect attacks, habitat loss and increasingly extreme weather
conditions linked to climate change which could negatively impact their growth. ESO has
been addressing this concern since 2010 when it launched ‘Sustainable Harvesting of
Frankincense Trees’, is an initiative that has made valuable scientific contributions on the
correct frequency of tapping and generating a sustainable yield without adversely harming
the trees. The organisation followed up with a rapid population estimate study in 2022 and
aims to publish those results in the coming few months.

For more information on ESO’s activities and how you can help, visit www.eso.org.om.