Plastic, people, and the past: community action at Al Zubarah Archaeological Site
Keywords:
Al-Zubārah, pollution, outreach, site management, QatarAbstract
Coastal archaeological sites in Qatar are severely threatened by marine debris, a challenge compounded by human negligence and natural forces such as currents and the shamal wind. Plastic pollution, in particular, poses a serious and growing threat. In response, Qatar Museums Authority has launched seasonal collaborative clean-up initiatives with DeapQatar Conservation, positioning environmental action as integral to cultural heritage preservation. Ongoing since 2019, these volunteer clean-ups target vulnerable coastal archaeological sites, especially UNESCO World Heritage Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, removing harmful waste while creating opportunities for public engagement. In addition to hands-on clean-ups, DeapQatar Conservation and Qatar Museums Authority deliver educational presentations to raise awareness of pollution’s impact on Qatar’s environment and archaeological sites. Volunteers not only contribute to environmental protection but also learn how to behave responsibly on archaeological sites and gain a deeper appreciation of Qatar’s heritage. By encouraging direct interaction with the landscape, these initiatives foster a shared sense of stewardship, transforming clean-ups into acts of community heritage care. This paper explores the intersection of archaeology, sustainability, and public engagement, proposing a model for integrated site management in coastal contexts, and calls for increased research and communication on this pressing issue across the Gulf.
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