Urgent Appeal from Ecoris for Sustainable Development: Save Wadi El-Gemal Protected Area from Environmental Violations!

To the Presidency of the Republic, relevant government authorities, regulatory bodies, civil society organizations, and the media,

Ecoris for Sustainable Development expresses deep concern over reports of ongoing excavation and construction activities in the Ras Hankorab area within Wadi El-Gemal Protected Area, one of Egypt’s most significant natural reserves known for its rich biodiversity. These activities pose a serious threat to the nesting sites of endangered sea turtles, cause severe damage to unique coral reefs, and undermine Egypt’s global environmental and ecotourism reputation.

⚠️ Environmental Risks and Serious Consequences:
✅ Destruction of sea turtle nesting sites, accelerating their extinction.
✅ Severe damage to unique coral reefs, which are among the most resilient marine ecosystems worldwide.
✅ Violation of Egypt’s international commitments to nature conservation, damaging the country’s environmental reputation.
✅ Decline in ecotourism, a vital source of income for Red Sea communities and a key contributor to the national economy.

📢 Our Urgent Demands to the Presidency and Government Authorities:
🔹 Immediate presidential directives to halt all construction activities in the Ras Hankorab area until their legality and environmental impact are assessed.
🔹 An urgent and transparent investigation into the ongoing activities, with findings disclosed to the public.
🔹 Strengthened environmental oversight to prevent future encroachments on protected areas.
🔹 Involvement of civil society and environmental experts in decision-making processes concerning the development or use of natural reserves.

🌍 Saving Wadi El-Gemal is a national responsibility. Protecting it is not a luxury but a duty and commitment to Egypt’s environmental and economic future.

📢 We urge the Presidency and relevant authorities to take immediate action before it is too late!

Ecoris for Sustainable Development