PERSIAN GULF
KEY FACTS

GEOGRAPHICAL FEATURES

The Persian Gulf is a shallow body of water that is approximately 240,000 square kilometers in size. It is located in Western Asia, and its coastline borders several countries, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

The Persian Gulf is connected to the Arabian Sea via the Strait of Hormuz, which is a narrow waterway that is approximately 54 kilometers wide at its narrowest point. The Gulf also has several islands, including Bahrain, which is the largest island in the Gulf, and Qeshm Island in Iran.

The geography of the Persian Gulf is dominated by its shallow waters, which are generally less than 50 meters deep. The shallow waters and warm temperatures of the Gulf create ideal conditions for the growth of coral reefs, which are home to a diverse range of marine life, including fish, turtles, and dolphins.

The coastline of the Persian Gulf is characterized by sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and mangrove forests. The Gulf also has several important wetlands, including the Hawizeh Marshes in Iraq and the Hammar Marshes in Iran, which are important habitats for migratory birds.

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THE ISLANDS

The Persian Gulf is home to many islands, mostly small, distributed in the gulf's entire geographic area and administered by the neighboring nations. Most islands are sparsely populated, with some being barren, and some utilized for communication, military, or as ship docks. Some of the islands in the Persian Gulf are artificially constructed islands. The artificial islands often serve as tourist resorts, housing developments, or hotels. Despite their small sizes, some of these artificial islands have caused serious hazards for the already fragile ecosystem of the Gulf and its dwindling wildlife mass. A few of the Gulf islands are also historically significant, having been utilized by the ancient empires, neighboring kingdoms, and in the recent times, colonial powers such as the British empire, and the Portuguese empire. Recent globalization, and discovery of oil, has made some of the Persian Gulf islands very significant for developed nations as a source of oil and raw industrial material. Recent wars, and political unrest has also made these islands strategic military locations

ENDEMIC PLANTS

The Persian Gulf region is home to a unique and diverse array of plant species, many of which are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world. Some of the endemic plant species in the Persian Gulf region include:

Prosopis cineraria: Also known as the Ghaf tree, this is a highly valued species in the Gulf region for its shade, fuel, and medicinal properties. It is a slow-growing, drought-resistant tree that can live for hundreds of years.

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MARINE & WILD LIFE

(Key Facts)

The International Day of Action for Rivers is celebrated every year on the 14th of March. The year 2022 marks the 25th anniversary of the International Day of Action for Rivers. The day aims to raise awareness about the value and importance of rivers as well as bring together people from across the world to discuss and spread awareness about conserving rivers, river management, pollution, and equitable access to clean and flowing water. The theme in 2022 is “The Importance of Rivers for Biodiversity”.

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MINERAL RESOURCES

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests in 2012 to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests. Countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns.

The organizers are the United Nations Forum on Forests and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with Governments, the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and other relevant organizations in the field.

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OIL & GAS RESERVES

The Iranian Department of Environment is a governmental organization, under the supervision of the president. It is responsible for matters related to safeguarding the environment.

The origins of the department can be traced back to the Hunting Club of Iran, established in 1956. Years later, it developed into an organization overseeing hunting and fishing activities in the country. In 1971 the organization changed its name to its current one, and notably has hosted the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in the city of Ramsar on the same year.

Persian Gulf

Welcome to the Persian Gulf, a region of unparalleled beauty and significance, where the convergence of nature and culture creates a rich tapestry unlike any other. Nestled between the Arabian Peninsula and the Iranian Plateau, the Persian Gulf is a body of water teeming with life, history, and ecological wonders waiting to be discovered.

In this section of our environment website, we invite you to embark on a journey through the Persian Gulf, exploring its diverse ecosystems, unique marine life, and the intricate relationship between humans and the environment. From the vibrant coral reefs to the sprawling mangrove forests, each aspect of the Gulf's environment tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and interconnectedness.

Join us as we delve into the ecological significance of the Persian Gulf, uncovering the delicate balance that sustains its biodiversity. Learn about the myriad species that call these waters home, from the majestic dugongs and graceful whale sharks to the colourful reef fish and elusive sea turtles. Discover how factors such as climate change, pollution, and overfishing are impacting the delicate ecosystem of the Gulf, and explore ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving its natural heritage for future generations.

The Persian Gulf, also known as the Arabian Gulf, is renowned for its strategic significance and economic importance, serving as a vital maritime corridor for global trade. But beyond its geopolitical significance lies a treasure trove of ecological wonders waiting to be discovered.

As you journey through this section, you will also learn about the environmental challenges facing the Persian Gulf and the efforts being made to protect and preserve its fragile ecosystems. From pollution and habitat degradation to overfishing and climate change, the Gulf faces numerous threats that require urgent attention and action.

Whether you're a seasoned marine biologist, a passionate environmentalist, or simply a curious explorer, there is something for everyone to discover in the Persian Gulf. So come, dive into the crystal-clear waters, wander through the bustling coastal cities, and immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of this extraordinary region. Welcome to the Persian Gulf – a true jewel of biodiversity and cultural heritage.

The Persian Gulf is a unique and ecologically sensitive region, and the impact of neighbouring countries on its environment has been a topic of concern for several decades. As well as the impact of neighbouring countries, the environment of Persian Gulf is influenced by various factors, including natural processes,

Addressing Environmental Challenges:

Addressing the environmental problems facing the Persian Gulf requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving various stakeholders, including governments, local communities, NGOs, and international organizations. Here are the key steps to be taken to tackle these challenges effectively:

Assessment and Research: Conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the extent and nature of environmental problems in the Persian Gulf region. This involves gathering data on pollution levels, biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and other relevant indicators. Invest in scientific research to identify the root causes and potential solutions to these issues. Establish robust monitoring programs to track changes over time and identify emerging issues.
Policy Development and Implementation: Formulate and enforce policies and regulations to mitigate environmental threats in the Persian Gulf. This includes measures to control pollution from industrial activities, shipping, and urban development, as well as to promote sustainable fisheries, coastal zone management, and marine conservation. Ensure that these policies are effectively implemented and enforced through monitoring, enforcement mechanisms, and stakeholder engagement.
International Cooperation: Foster collaboration and cooperation among countries bordering the Persian Gulf and international partners to address transboundary environmental challenges. This may involve joint initiatives to manage shared resources, regulate maritime activities, and respond to environmental emergencies such as oil spills or marine pollution incidents. Participate in regional agreements and conventions aimed at protecting the marine environment and promoting sustainable development.
Public Awareness and Education: Raise awareness among the public, stakeholders, and decision-makers about the importance of preserving the Persian Gulf's ecosystems and natural resources. Conduct outreach campaigns, educational programs, and community engagement activities to promote environmental stewardship, sustainable lifestyles, and responsible tourism. Empower local communities to participate in conservation efforts and adopt eco-friendly practices.
Investment in Green Technologies and Innovation: Invest in research, development, and deployment of green technologies and innovative solutions to address environmental challenges in the Persian Gulf. This includes investments in renewable energy, waste management, desalination technologies, and ecosystem restoration projects. Encourage private sector investment in sustainable infrastructure and clean technologies to drive economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.
Adaptation to Climate Change: Develop and implement strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change on the Persian Gulf region. This involves measures to enhance resilience to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and changing ocean conditions. Implement coastal protection measures, climate-smart agriculture practices, and sustainable water management strategies to minimize vulnerability and ensure long-term sustainability.
International Cooperation and Collaboration: Foster cooperation among Persian Gulf countries, neighbouring states, and international organizations to address shared environmental challenges. Establish mechanisms for information sharing, joint research, and collaborative initiatives to enhance conservation efforts and sustainable development in the region.
Public Engagement and Education: Raise public awareness about the importance of the Persian Gulf's ecosystems and the threats they face. Engage local communities, schools, businesses, and civil society organizations in conservation activities, citizen science projects, and environmental education programs to foster a sense of stewardship and collective responsibility.

By taking these steps and working together, stakeholders can help protect and preserve the Persian Gulf's natural resources, ecosystems, and human health for current and future generations.

human activities, and interactions with neighbouring countries. The region's unique geography, climate, and hydrology, combined with socio-economic and geopolitical dynamics, have significant impacts on its environment.

Persian Gulf faces a range of environmental problems that have significant impacts on its natural resources, ecosystems, and human health. To address these problems three steps are required to be taken. First, to address the problems state, and the country as a whole, is currently facing. The second step is to identify what (and if) policies/actions the Iranian state has taken over the past four decades to tackle these environmental problems. We assess the effectiveness, efficiency and shortcomings of the state policies in the third step. For the last part, we offer some policy recommendations.

Pollution in Persian Gulf

The Persian Gulf is facing significant environmental challenges, including pollution. The region's rapid economic growth and industrialization, as well as its reliance on oil and gas, have contributed to pollution in the region.

One of the main sources of pollution in the Persian Gulf is oil spills, which can have significant environmental and economic impacts. Accidental oil spills from tankers and offshore drilling platforms have occurred in the region, with some of the most notable incidents occurring during the Gulf War in the 1990s.

Other sources of pollution in the Persian Gulf include wastewater discharge, air pollution from industrial activities and transportation, and plastic pollution. The region's desert climate and limited rainfall make it difficult to flush pollutants out of the system, which can lead to long-term environmental impacts.

Additionally, the Persian Gulf is experiencing a phenomenon known as "red tide," which is caused by algae blooms that can produce toxins harmful to marine life and humans. These algae blooms are believed to be caused by pollution, as well as warming water temperatures and nutrient runoff from agricultural activities.

To address these environmental challenges, the countries in the Persian Gulf have been working to improve environmental regulations and reduce pollution. However, progress has been slow, and more needs to be done to protect the region's environment and the health of its inhabitants.

There are several causes of pollution in the Persian Gulf. Some of the main causes are:

Oil and gas production: The Persian Gulf is one of the world's largest producers of oil and gas. The production of these resources involves drilling, transportation, and refining, which can release pollutants into the air and water.
Industrial activities: The region has experienced rapid economic growth and industrialization in recent years, with many factories and power plants being built. These facilities can emit pollutants into the air and water.
Transportation: The Persian Gulf is a major shipping route for oil tankers, cargo ships, and other vessels. These ships can release pollutants into the water, including oil spills.
Agriculture: Agriculture in the region relies heavily on fertilizers and pesticides, which can leach into the water and cause pollution.
Waste disposal: The disposal of waste, including municipal solid waste and hazardous waste, can also contribute to pollution in the Persian Gulf.

It's important to note that pollution in the Persian Gulf is a complex issue with multiple causes. Addressing this issue will require coordinated efforts from governments, industry, and individuals to reduce pollution and protect the environment.

The countries bordering the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman face a range of environmental problems that impact the region's natural resources, ecosystems, and human health. Some of the most pressing environmental problems in these countries are:

Water Scarcity: The region is one of the most water-stressed regions in the world. With limited freshwater resources, countries in the region face a significant challenge in meeting the water needs of their growing populations, agriculture, and industry. As it is explained in further details, severe water scarcity in these countries is due to a combination of factors, including population growth, climate change, and overuse of water resources.
Desertification: Desertification is a process by which fertile land becomes desert due to various factors such as climate change, overgrazing, and deforestation. The region's arid climate, combined with unsustainable agricultural practices and overgrazing, has led to the loss of valuable agricultural land and natural habitats for wildlife.

Waste Management: Rapid urbanization and industrialization in countries of the region have led to an increase in waste generation in the Middle East. However, many countries in the region lack the infrastructure and resources to manage this waste effectively. We can add lack of recycling programs, and a cultural acceptance of littering. As a result, much of the waste ends up in landfills, which can have significant environmental and health impacts.

Air Pollution: Air pollution is another significant problem in countries of the region, particularly in cities with high levels of industrial activity and traffic. The burning of fossil fuels, emissions from power plants, and vehicular traffic congestion are the primary sources of air pollution in the region. This pollution can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues.
Climate Change: Climate change is affecting the region in various ways, including increased temperatures, reduced rainfall, and more frequent and severe droughts. These changes are leading to a decline in agricultural productivity, increased water scarcity, and other environmental problems.

https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/all-about-climate/

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It is important to note that the impact of neighboring countries on the Persian Gulf environment can vary widely based on their specific policies, practices, and levels of development. While some countries have taken steps to mitigate environmental impacts, more concerted efforts are needed to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the Persian Gulf ecosystem.

STATES
BORDERING
PERSIAN GULF

Kingdom of Bahrain

The Supreme Council for Environment

The Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) in Bahrain is a government entity in charge of the development of Bahrain’s future strategy for the environment and sustainable development, and following up on the implementation of this strategy with relevant ministries, agencies and institutions. The SCE’s mandate also includes protecting Bahrain’s natural habitat and human environment, ensuring the sustainability of its components, and preserving and developing its resources for future generations.

Islamic Republic of

Iran

Department of Environment

The Iranian Department of Environment is a governmental organization, under the supervision of the president. It is responsible for matters related to safeguarding the environment.

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Republic of Iraq

Ministry of Environment

The country's environment has been subject to a number of converging pressures stemming from population growth, the impact of three wars, climate change, poor land use planning, and encroachment on fragile ecosystems. Iraq faces serious environmental problems, ranging from poor water quality, soil salinity, air pollution, and conflict pollution to the deterioration of key ecosystems, climate change impacts and threat of water shortages.

State of Kuwait:

Environment Public Authority

Kuwait’s Environment Public Authority (EPA) is the lead governmental agency and authority for environmental management and climate change-related activities in Kuwait. The EPA is headed by the First Deputy Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister. The EPA is responsible for enforcing environmental laws, overseeing and monitoring projects, initiating programmes, evaluating schemes and promoting education initiatives.

Sultanate of Oman

The Environment Authority

The Environment authority is considered one of the government agencies responsible for developing plans and programs to protect the environment and preserve its natural resources through the application of its policy to ensure the safety of the environment, combat pollution and preserve the various environmental systems.

State of Qatar

Ministry of Municipality and Environment

The Ministry serves to protect the environment and develops the natural resources in the state of Qatar. One of the core functions of the ministry is to protect endangered wild life and natural habitats, especially the following: -Devising specific general measures to protect the environment and endangered wild life and natural habitats.

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Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture

The Ministry is a government ministry which is responsible for the achievement of sustainability of the environment and natural resources in the Kingdom. The ministry is also in charge of developing and applying policies that contribute to achieving water and food security.

United Arab Emirate

Ministry of Climate Change and Environment

Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is the federal authority for environmental planning and action in UAE.

The ministry, in collaboration with the competent local authorities concerned with environment, work on developing environmental programmes and initiatives that aim to contribute to the sustainability of water, enhance food security, raise the rates of bio-security and enhance environmental security. The action plans of the ministry emerge from its vision to ensure sustainable environment for life.

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The Persian Gulf is located in Southwest Asia. It is an extension of the Indian Ocean located between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula. Historically and commonly known as the Persian Gulf, this body of water is sometimes controversially referred to as the Arabian Gulf by certain Arab countries or simply The Gulf, although neither of the latter two terms is recognized internationally.

Geography

This inland sea of some 251,000 km² is connected to the Gulf of Oman in the east by the Strait of Hormuz. Its western end is marked by the major river delta of the Shatt al-Arab, which carries the waters of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. Its length is 989 kilometers, with Iran occupying most of the northern coast and Saudi Arabia most of the southern coast. The gulf is about 56 kilometers wide at its narrowest, in the Strait of Hormuz. The waters are overall very shallow, with a maximum depth of 90 meters and an average depth of 50 meters.

Countries with a coastline on the Persian Gulf are (clockwise, from the north): Iran, Oman (exclave of Musandam), United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar on a peninsula off the Saudi coast, Bahrain on an island, Kuwait, and Iraq in the northwest. Various small islands lie within the Persian Gulf, some of which are subject to territorial disputes by the states of the region.

Mineral Resource

The Persian Gulf and its coastal areas are the world's largest single source of crude oil, and related industries dominate the region. Al-Safaniya, the world's largest offshore oilfield, is located in the Persian Gulf. Large natural gas finds have also been made, with Qatar and Iran sharing a giant field across the territorial median line (North Field in the Qatari sector; South Pars Field in the Iranian sector). Using this gas, Qatar has built up a substantial liquified natural gas (LNG) and petrochemical industry.

The oil-rich countries (excluding Iraq) that have a coastline on the Persian Gulf are referred to as the Persian Gulf States. Iraq's egress to the gulf is narrow and easily blockaded, consisting of the marshy river delta of the Shatt al-Arab, which carries the waters of theEuphrates and Tigris Rivers, where the left (east) bank is held by Iran.

Source: http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Persian_Gulf

The Persian Gulf has a notoriously unpleasant climate. Temperatures are high, though winters may be quite cool at the northwestern extremities. The sparse rainfall occurs mainly as sharp downpours between November and April and is higher in the northeast. Humidity is high

The Persian Gulf region is especially vulnerable, the researchers say, because of a combination of low elevations, clear sky, water body that increases heat absorption, and the shallowness of the Persian Gulf itself, which produces high water temperatures that lead to strong evaporation and very high humidity.27 Oct 2015

environment problem in middle east

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The Middle East faces a range of environmental problems that impact the region's natural resources, ecosystems, and human health. Some of the most pressing environmental problems in the Middle East include:

Water Scarcity: Many countries in the Middle East are facing severe water scarcity due to a combination of factors, including population growth, climate change, and overuse of water resources. This has led to conflicts over water resources and has put a strain on local communities.
Desertification: Desertification, which is the degradation of dryland ecosystems, is a significant environmental problem in the Middle East. The region's arid climate, combined with unsustainable agricultural practices and overgrazing, has led to the loss of fertile land and reduced biodiversity.
Air Pollution: The Middle East is known for its high levels of air pollution, particularly in urban areas. This is due to a range of factors, including traffic congestion, industrial activity, and the burning of fossil fuels for energy.
Waste Management: Many countries in the Middle East face challenges with waste management, including inadequate infrastructure for waste disposal, lack of recycling programs, and a cultural acceptance of littering.
Climate Change: Climate change is affecting the Middle East in a range of ways, including rising temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns, and increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events.

These environmental problems have significant impacts on the region's economy, health, and social stability. Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts from governments, businesses, and civil society organizations.

Maritime Space: Maritime Zones

and Maritime Delimitation,

Coastal State of Persian Gulf:

United Nations Legislations

and Treaties

Key Indicators

Geography

This inland sea of some 251,000 km² is connected to the Gulf of Oman in the east by the Strait of Hormuz. Its western end is marked by the major river delta of the Shatt al-Arab, which carries the waters of the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. Its length is 989 kilometres, with Iran occupying most of the northern coast and Saudi Arabia most of the southern coast. The gulf is about 56 kilometres wide at its narrowest, in the Strait of Hormuz. The waters are overall very shallow, with a maximum depth of 90 meters and an average depth of 50 meters.

Countries with a coastline on the Persian Gulf

are (clockwise, from the north):

Iran, Oman (exclave of Musandam), United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar on a peninsula off the Saudi coast, Bahrain on an island, Kuwait, and Iraq in the northwest. Various small islands lie within the Persian Gulf, some of which are subject to territorial disputes by the states of the region.

Mineral Resource

Source: http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Persian_Gulf

The Persian Gulf is a 600 – mile body of water. Persian Gulf is the most strategic waterways in the world due to its importance in the global oil transportation.
Due to the war and high rate of water evaporation, extended drilling and oil extraction, pollution of the water has increased alarmingly. The Persian Gulf is now one of the sensitive marine ecosystems.

The Persian Gulf is the presence of coral colonies and plant spices and need clear protection because of its crucial role in the earth’s life supporting phenomena.
The effects of industrial pollution, oil spills on the marine environment is forcing us to focus on the problem and the need for coastal conservation.

The Avecina and mangroves plants are among the sea resources that provide an ideal living environment for shrimp.

The plants living on the seabed near the shore are supporting the marine life such as dugongs and turtles. The extraction of oil from coastal areas is causing the most important problem such as pollution (http://www.parstimes.com/environment/pg_pollution.html)

The Gulf region has scare fresh water sources and depends on desalination plants that purify uncontaminated seawater into drinking water.

The Ajman desalination plant was shut down as a precautionary measure due to the oil slick that threatened the region. The Persian Gulf’s waters are the home to diverse range of marine and bird life including five types of turtles, dugongs and dolphins. Oil spills are a nightmare in the Persian Gulf, the world’s busiest oil channel.
In July 1997, adiesel-carring barge ran aground and spilled more than 5,000 tons of diesels of the UAE emirate of SHARJAH, contaminating the local water supply.
The worst oil spill in UAE was in 1994 when two super tankers collided of the coast of Fujairah, resulting in the leakage of some 16,000 tons of crude.

The tanker collisions, tanker washout is among the most illegal activities in the Persian Gulf.
The conservation of the marine environment of the Persian Gulf is highly recommended.

The Major sources of pollution are:
1) Pollution from ships
2) Pollution from Land-based sources
3) Pollution caused by dumping from ships and aircraft
4) Pollution resulting from exploration and exploitation of the bed of the territorial sea, the continental shelf and the sub-soil thereof.
5) Pollution from other human activities ( Morteza Aminmansour)

Water Scarcity: Many countries in the Middle East are facing severe water scarcity due to a combination of factors, including population growth, climate change, and overuse of water resources. This has led to conflicts over water resources and has put a strain on local communities.
Desertification: Desertification, which is the degradation of dryland ecosystems, is a significant environmental problem in the Middle East. The region's arid climate, combined with unsustainable agricultural practices and overgrazing, has led to the loss of fertile land and reduced biodiversity.
Air Pollution: The Middle East is known for its high levels of air pollution, particularly in urban areas. This is due to a range of factors, including traffic congestion, industrial activity, and the burning of fossil fuels for energy.
Waste Management: Many countries in the Middle East face challenges with waste management, including inadequate infrastructure for waste disposal, lack of recycling programs, and a cultural acceptance of littering.
Climate Change: Climate change is affecting the Middle East in a range of ways, including rising temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns, and increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events.