2600 frankincense saplings planted in Dhofar in ESO campaign

2600 frankincense saplings planted in Dhofar in ESO campaign

Boosting environment: Harsh methods of tapping, overharvesting, and climate change, have had a negative impact on the growth of frankincense trees. -Supplied photo Muscat: 2, 600 frankincense tree saplings have been planted in Dhofar by the Environment Society of Oman as part of efforts to conserve the precious tree, and generate awareness towards its centuries-long connection with the country. As part of outreach efforts related to the initiative, 200 flyers were distributed, illustrating appropriate frankincense planting and irrigation instructions in English and Arabic, and communities across the governorate have been provided with information on sustainable harvesting techniques. The campaign was conducted in collaboration with herbal cosmetics manufacturers Neal's Yard Remedies, in eight different areas across the governorate, including 12 schools, as well as among women's associations, farmers and local community members. Suaad Al Harthi, executive director at ESO, said, "We are extremely pleased with what this project has achieved in the past 18 months. Frankincense has been around for centuries, and remains one of the world's most treasured commodities, as well as being integral to the Omani identity. "Yet, due to several factors putting the tree at risk, it has become increasingly important for us to bring back awareness to