Training program launched to build the capacity of the environmental police and Environment Quality Authority inspectors

Al-Bireh_ The Environmental Quality Authority, Palestine Society for Environment and Sustainable Development, and the Palestinian Police launched a training program to improve the capacity of the environmental police and the Environmental Quality Authority inspectors in the field of nature protection. This took place at the headquarters of the Red Crescent in Al-Bireh, with the support of the Hanns Seidel Foundation through Mahmiyat Project.

The training program was opened by the Chairwoman of the Environmental Quality Authority, Her Excellency Dr. Nisreen Al-Tamimi, head of the Environmental Security Department in the Palestinian Police Service, Brigadier General Montaser Al-Tamimi, Ms. Ikram Quttaineh from the Hanns Seidel Foundation, and Director of Palestine Society for Environment and Sustainable Development, Saed Shomaly. A number of cadres of the Environmental Quality Authority and the Palestinian Police were also present.

Dr. Al-Tamimi emphasized that this workshop represents an important moment as official, police and civil society institutions move forward in working to protect our environment from threats and risks. This was also critical in our participatory responsibility to create a clean, safe and secure environment, and secure the future of generations to come.

She added that the training program is the beginning of subsequent programs at the national level, which are aimed at protecting biodiversity. She explained that, in terms of biodiversity, Palestine is one of the richest areas in the world, despite its small geographical area compared to other countries.

In turn, Ms. Quttaineh said that the training program aims to raise the capabilities of environmental police teams in Palestine. The program will provide both technical skills and education in operations, follow up, control of markets and natural reserve areas.

Quttaineh emphasized that Hanns Seidel looks forward to supporting the police by providing the necessary tools for all centers and teams. They will also facilitate experience sharing with neighboring countries in the upcoming years. Hanns Seidel will call on police squads to partner with the Environmental Quality Authority and the Palestinian Society for Environment and Sustainable Development.

Brigadier Al-Tamimi discussed the importance of holding such training programs. He said it provided an opportunity to teach about the native animals, birds and vegetation that make up the local biodiversity, as well as the appropriate ways to enjoy it.

Adding to this, Ms. Joyce Al-Atrash, from Palestine Society for Environment and Sustainable Development, explained that this workshop is part of the Society's projects to protect both environmental and cultural heritage, and to spread environmental awareness in the community within the Mahmiyat project.

The workshop included an introduction to biodiversity in Palestine, types of endangered birds and wild animals sold in markets, control mechanisms for birds and wild animals, how to deal with confiscated birds and animals, identification of snakes and how to handle them, and a session on first aid.