Vienna, July 20 (QNA) - The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC), took part in the International Technical Meeting (INT7021), hosted in Vienna, Austria.

The event was part of the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) NUTEC Plastics Initiative, aiming to strengthen international efforts to track microplastic pollution in marine environments and coastal areas.

Convened at the Vienna International Centre, the meeting delved into cutting-edge scientific methodologies and technologies to monitor plastic pollution, with a contingent of experts, specialists, and representatives of member states participating.

The event explored the mechanisms of compiling and analyzing samples, alongside outlining ideal international practices to unify approved technical criteria and protocols in this respect, thereby helping elevate the efficiency of environmental monitoring programs and foster the credibility of scientific data.

Officials said the participation was part of the MECC's commitment to keeping up with the scientific and technological edge, mostly evolving in terms of protecting maritime and coastal environments, as well as enhancing the national environmental surveillance system in accordance with the most ideal international standards and practices.

This likewise demonstrates the Ministry's commitment to unlocking cooperation prospects with the IAEA and international partners, sharing expertise, and building national capacities to ultimately back pollution prevention efforts.

They added these efforts will contribute to achieving environmental sustainability and conserving natural resources for both current and next generations, in alignment with Qatar's vision to reinforce sustainable development and environmental protection. (QNA)