EQA – Environment Quality Authority

Shielding Palestine’s Natural Treasure: The Environment Quality Authority (EQA)

Harmonizing National and International Environmental Regulations

The EQA, Palestine’s guardian of the environment, powers forward with two potent projects, supported by the Swedish International Cooperation Agency (SIDA). The first project, “Strengthening Palestinian Environmental Plan,” aims to weave together national and international environmental regulations. It envisions the incorporation of local and international expertise for legislative drafting and environmental law creation, focusing on hazardous waste management and nature protection.

Audit Services: Holding EQA Accountable

Simultaneously, EQA embraces accountability through the “External Auditing Services” project. This initiative pursues yearly audits, with potential expansions to cover the years 2020 and 2021, scrutinizing the implementation and adherence to environmental regulations. Both projects invite qualified entities to express their interest, promoting transparency and accountability.

Celebrating Biodiversity: EQA and PCBS Collaboration

Remarkably, Palestine nurtures about 51,000 species, which constitutes around 3% of the world’s biodiversity. To highlight this, EQA joined forces with the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) on World Environment Day 2020. However, this biodiversity faces threats including Israeli occupation, invasive species, and human pollution.

The Roots of EQA

The EQA was born from the Palestinian Environmental Authority (PEnA) established in 1996. Eventually, PEnA morphed into the Ministry of Environmental Affairs (MEnA) before becoming EQA. The entity emphasizes environmental preservation amidst challenges such as resource scarcity and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Toll of Conflict on the Environment

The Israeli occupation of the West Bank, according to MEnA, has severely impacted water resources, influencing agriculture, economic stability, and overall wellbeing of Palestinians.

Sourcing Funds for Environmental Milestones

Various entities, including the UNDP and the U.S. government, fund MEnA’s projects. Despite considerable challenges, these funds have enabled milestones such as the Palestinian Environmental Strategy and integrated watershed management projects.

EQA’s Consultations: Preparing for Stockholm+50

In collaboration with the UNDP/PAPP and the Center of Development Studies at Birzeit University, EQA launched Palestine’s national consultations for the upcoming Stockholm+50 Conference. This initiative draws together a wide range of stakeholders to strategize for a sustainable, inclusive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and to contribute to global sustainability discussions. The outputs will be presented at the Stockholm+50 Conference in June 2022.

Final Thoughts

EQA remains dedicated to fostering a sustainable Palestine, addressing environmental concerns amidst political and financial limitations. EQA’s mission, shored up by international cooperation and environmental education, signals a brighter, more sustainable future for Palestine and its inhabitants.

Address: Shorafa Street

Email: info@environment.pria.ps

Phone: +970 2 240 3495

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