5 easy ways you can help protect Qatar’s beaches

Summer is the perfect time to visit the beach. Whether you wish to soak up some sun or simply de-stress with friends and family over a weekend, Qatar’s serene beaches offer a delightful retreat. 

The country has some spectacular beaches open to the public as well as exclusively for families. 

Beaches in Qatar

While we find ourselves reveling in the beauty of these beaches, it is also essential to play our part in keeping them clean, not just as responsible residents and citizens of the country but also as environmentally-conscious global citizens. 

How can you help preserve Qatar's beaches?

1. Say no to plastics

Avoid bringing plastic bags, straws, balloons and plastic bottles to the beach. While this may be an age-old habit, remember it is not impossible to give up, particularly with the availability of environmentally-friendly bags now. 

Give up on single-use plastic bottles. Instead, opt for sports bottles or other reusable containers that will help eliminate the risk that plastics pose. 

Here's a video to help you understand the serious problem of plastic use:

2. Remember to pick up your trash

This may sound like a cliche but is something that is often forgotten or overlooked. That's probably because we fail to realize how grave of an impact this may produce on the seashores. Litter on the beach can not only kill marine life but also contribute to climate change. 

When you’re at the beach, pick up your trash and any other trash that you may spot around you. Visit the beach with this mantra in mind: Leave only your footprints in the sand.

3. Don't leave behind beach equipment

Who doesn't love devouring some delectable food by the sea or setting up a cutesy spot adorned with some beach chairs and rugs to kick back and relax on the shores? Perhaps, you are one of those who frequently enjoy a barbecue by the beach? Whatever you do, remember to take back all the equipment you bring with you.

Many of these items seem harmless but they can potentially harm animals. They can also prevent certain animals, like sea turtle hatchlings, from reaching the sea. 

4. Choose safer personal care products

Be mindful that everything you put on your skin will rinse off in the sea. Most commercial sunscreens are full of chemicals that can be detrimental to the marine environment and can damage coral DNA. To avoid this, pick sun protectants that are organic or contain safer ingredients. 

Keep your skin safe from harm, while also decreasing the potential threat to the ocean. You can also visit beaches outside of peak UV hours, or apply sunscreen an hour before hitting the beach so that is better absorbed.

5. Get involved and take responsibility  

Qatar has some wonderful organizations that work hard to ensure beach cleanliness. Tag along one of these awesome groups of people for a beach clean-up. Take your friends and family along and play your part in preserving the beauty of Qatar's natural treasures. 

Did you know?

Qatar's Ministry of Municipality and Environment regularly calls on the public to keep Qatar's public spaces including beaches clean and free of litter. Individuals who throw or leaving food wastes in gardens, on beaches, or in public spaces or vacant space may face a fine of QR500. 

The Bottom Line

_{Photo Credit: Sidra Ayub}

Recognize this as a collective responsibility. The simple actions we take today will help preserve all that we love about Qatar's beaches. 

What are your thoughts on this subject? Let us know in the comments below!

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Cover Image Credit: Flickr/ Nicole Quinton