Advancing Circular Economy in Water Management in Algeria: From Wastewater to Strategic Resource

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As climate change accelerates water scarcity across the Mediterranean and the Sahara, countries are compelled to rethink their approach to water management. The traditional linear model of extracting freshwater, using it once, and discharging it into the environment is no longer viable in regions where rainfall is decreasing, aquifers are overexploited, and agricultural demand continues to grow [1-2]. In Algeria, this challenge is especially acute – declining annual precipitation, high evapo-transpiration rates, rapid population growth, and urban expansion place tremendous pressure on limited freshwater resources. At the same time, industrial and agricultural demands continue to rise, further stressing conventional water supply systems. These dynamics create an urgent need to adopt innovative approaches that integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations, while ensuring long-term water security [3].

water management and circular economy

Globally, water governance is evolving toward a circular economy model, in which treated wastewater is no longer considered waste but a valuable resource. This approach emphasizes the reuse of water for multiple applications, the optimization of resource efficiency, and the protection of ecosystems. When treated wastewater is reused safely, it can support agriculture, industrial operations, urban landscaping, aquifer recharge, and even potable water supply under strict regulatory and treatment conditions. Countries such as Spain, Singapore, and Australia provide concrete examples of how circular water management, coupled with robust monitoring and public engagement, can significantly reduce pressure on freshwater sources, increase resilience to drought, and promote sustainable urban and agricultural development [4-5].

Algeria, one of the most water-stressed countries in North Africa, is increasingly embracing this approach. Facing declining precipitation, rising energy and financial costs of conventional water supply, and rapid demographic growth in urban areas, the government recognizes the strategic importance of treated wastewater as a reliable, locally available water source. Recent announcements in Algerian media indicate the launch of a national program to upgrade dozens of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) with tertiary treatment, beginning with major facilities in Algiers, Oran, Tlemcen, Constantine, Tipasa, and Ouargla. The objective is to produce high-quality reclaimed water suitable for irrigation, reduce pressure on overexploited groundwater, and expand the reuse perimeter, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions [6].

The principle of a circular water economy is that water can and must be used more than once. Treated wastewater, when properly processed, can serve multiple functions: supporting agriculture, industry, urban landscaping, and aquifer recharge, and under certain conditions, potable applications. Advanced technologies such as membrane filtration, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, and AI-driven smart irrigation systems enhance the safety, efficiency, and adaptability of water reuse, even under harsh climatic conditions. International experience demonstrates that with clear standards, rigorous monitoring, and public engagement, reclaimed water can achieve high acceptance and contribute significantly to national water security [7].

Algeria’s wastewater infrastructure provides a strong foundation for circular water management. Over the past two decades, more than 200 WWTPs have been constructed, serving urban agglomerations, industrial zones, and peri-urban areas. While some plants operate below design capacity due to operational and maintenance constraints, collectively they represent a substantial national asset. Treated wastewater, particularly when upgraded with tertiary or quaternary treatment, can reduce pressure on fossil groundwater, support local agriculture, and stabilize food systems in drought-prone regions such as Biskra, Oued Souf, Adrar, and Timimoun [8].

wastewater treatment plant

Algeria has also established a regulatory and normative framework for water reuse. Executive Decrees 06‑141 and 07‑149 define pollutant discharge limits and conditions for wastewater reuse, while an interministerial decree issued in 2012 specifies eligible crops and water quality requirements, including microbiological and physico-chemical parameters. National standards, such as NA 17683 for treated wastewater and NA 17671 for sludge reuse, define water classes based on E. coli concentrations and other parameters, ranging from Class A (≤10 CFU/100 mL) to Class D (≤10,000 CFU/100 mL). These standards provide a technical and legal foundation for safe reuse, protecting public health, agricultural productivity, and environmental integrity. However, many WWTPs still operate below optimal treatment levels, monitoring systems remain fragmented, and public confidence in water reuse, particularly for agriculture, is limited [9].

A concrete example of water reuse in Algeria comes from the Boumerdes region. The Boumerdes WWTP, serving the coastal city of Zemmouri, supplies approximately 160 m³/day of treated wastewater to the municipality. The water is primarily used for non-potable municipal applications, such as street cleaning and urban landscaping, while plans are underway to expand agricultural reuse in nearby farmland. Long-term agricultural studies in the Corso-Boumerdes area indicate that treated wastewater, combined with sewage sludge, has been applied on farmland since 2002, demonstrating safe irrigation practices under local conditions. Farmers apply sludge annually (15–20 tons per hectare) and irrigate with treated wastewater via drip systems from May to October, compensating for water shortages while maintaining soil health.

Soil monitoring has not revealed harmful accumulation of heavy metals or contaminants, supporting the safety and sustainability of reuse in this context. This example illustrates that even relatively modest volumes of reclaimed water can provide substantial benefits for both municipal and agricultural needs while offering an opportunity for replication in other regions [10].

Pilot projects like WAWARIA in the Saharan region further demonstrate the operational and strategic potential of circular water management in Algeria. WAWARIA is designed to evaluate the safe valorization of treated wastewater for irrigation under extreme climatic conditions. The project compares crop performance and environmental safety under three irrigation regimes: groundwater, secondary-treated wastewater, and tertiary-polished water using membrane filtration. Conducted on nine greenhouse plots, the project monitors crop yields, soil quality, heavy metals, and organic compounds. Advanced infrastructure, including intelligent drip irrigation and automated monitoring, ensures precise evaluation during harsh Saharan winter conditions. Crops such as tomatoes, potatoes, beetroot, lettuce, cucumber, and beans are grown under identical conditions to rigorously measure the effects of irrigation water quality on productivity and environmental safety [11].

Early results from WAWARIA show that membrane-polished wastewater produces crop yields comparable to groundwater irrigation. Secondary-treated wastewater, when applied through controlled drip irrigation, also supports safe and productive cultivation. Soil analyses indicate no harmful accumulation of heavy metals or organic contaminants, confirming that treated wastewater, when managed according to standards and monitored systematically, can be safely integrated into agricultural systems. Intelligent irrigation minimizes water loss, optimizes nutrient distribution, and increases water-use efficiency, while the project builds confidence among farmers, agronomists, and engineers regarding the reliability of treated wastewater.

efficient irrigation methods

Spray irrigation has higher efficiency than traditional methods.

These projects illustrate both the technical feasibility and strategic importance of wastewater reuse in Algeria. By providing water for urban landscaping, municipal cleaning, and agriculture, reuse reduces pressure on overexploited aquifers, enhances food security, and enables the sustainable development of peri-urban and arid areas. Moreover, it contributes to socio-economic development by creating technical jobs in water quality monitoring, irrigation management, and environmental engineering. Lessons from Boumerdes, WAWARIA, and other initiatives highlight the importance of integrating regulatory standards, long-term monitoring, and stakeholder engagement to ensure safe and socially acceptable water reuse.

Law 25-02 on waste management and the circular economy, adopted in 2025, reinforces these efforts. It mandates that public utilities, municipalities, and industrial operators develop valorization plans, produce reusable water, and integrate reuse into economic and environmental strategies. Financial incentives, including subsidies for reuse infrastructure and support for climate-smart irrigation projects, encourage innovation and investment. At the same time, penalties for environmentally harmful practices help enforce compliance. By linking circular water management to local economic development, the law fosters green jobs and strengthens community participation, ensuring that the transition toward a circular water economy generates tangible socio-economic benefits [12].

Taken together, the regulatory framework, technological innovation, and operational experiences provided by projects like WAWARIA and Boumerdes position Algeria to transform treated wastewater into a cornerstone of its water strategy. Expanding reclaimed water programs, upgrading treatment plants, strengthening monitoring networks, and investing in intelligent irrigation systems can convert water scarcity from a constraint into a strategic opportunity. This approach not only secures water and food systems in arid and semi-arid regions but also promotes sustainable urban development, soil restoration, and climate adaptation.

Conclusion

Algeria’s evolving wastewater reuse initiatives demonstrate the practical and strategic benefits of circular water management. The combination of regulatory standards, advanced treatment technologies, and field-based pilot projects provides a roadmap for safe, effective, and scalable reuse of treated wastewater. The Boumerdes example shows that even modest reuse volumes can have meaningful impacts when managed properly, while WAWARIA illustrates the potential for scaling such practices to harsher environments.

By integrating reuse into national planning, monitoring, and policy frameworks, Algeria can safeguard its water resources, enhance agricultural productivity, and build resilience against the impacts of climate change, turning environmental challenges into sustainable development opportunities.

References

[1] Lindsay C. Stringer; Alisher Mirzabaev, Tor A. Benjaminsen, Rebecca M.B. Harris, Mostafa Jafari, Tabea K. Lissner,Nicola Stevens,Cristina Tirado-von der Pahlen. Climate change impacts on water security in global drylands Lindsay C. Stringer. One Earth. Volume 4, Issue 6,18 June 2021, Pages 851-864.

[2], Silvia R. Santos Da Silva, Fernando Miralles-Wilhelm, Son Kim, Page Kyle, Yaling Liu, Chris Vernon, Alison Delgado, Jae Edmonds, Leon Clarke. Impacts of water scarcity on agricultural production and electricity generation in the Middle East and North Africa Front. Environ. Sci., 27 February 2023

Sec. Interdisciplinary Climate Studies.Volume 11 – 2023 https://doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2023.1082930

[3 ] Ali Rahmani Salah Eddine, Brahim C. Water Supply Prediction for the Next 10 Years in Algeria: Risks and Challenges. Irrigation & Drainage Systems Engineering. 2017 06(03)

[4] Khaled Oabaideen, Nabila Shehata,Enas Taha Sayed,Mohammad Ali Abdelkareem, Mohamed S.Mahmoud, A.G.Olabi. The role of wastewater treatment in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) and sustainability guideline. Energy Nexus Volume 7,September 2022, 100112.

[5] Farfán Chilicaus, G.C.; Cruz Salinas, L.E.; Silva León, P.M.; Lizarzaburu Aguinaga, D.A.; Vera Zelada, P.; Vera Zelada, L.A.; Luque Luque, E.O.; Licapa Redolfo, R.; Ramos Farroñán, E.V. Circular Economy and Water Sustainability: Systematic Review of Water Management Technologies and Strategies (2018–2024). Sustainability 2025, 17, 6544. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/su17146544

[6] Rezzoug Cherif, Merzougui Touhami, Abdelhadi Bouchiba. Wastewater treatment technologies and challenges in Algeria and their future prospects. Discover Sustainability August 2025; 6(1), DOI:10.1007/s43621-025-01731-7

[7] Abbaszadegan, M.; Alum, A.; Kitajima, M.; Fujioka, T.; Matsui, Y.; Sano, D.; Katayama, H. Water Reuse—Retrospective Study on Sustainable Future Prospects. Water 2025, 17, 789. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/w17060789

[8] Hanane Abdelmoumene, Faiza Lallam, Mostefa Lallam, Maamar Boumediene. Assessment of the operational status of a wastewater treatment plant using the FAHP Process: case study of the Ain El Houtz WWTP in Algeria. Vol. 5 No. 2 (2024): Studies in Engineering and Exact Sciences, Curitiba, v.5, n.2, 2024.

[9] www.joradp.dz

[10] Neggache, N. (2017). La réutilisation des eaux usées épurées de la station d’épuration de Zemmouri (Master’s thesis, Université M’Hamed Bougara, Boumerdès).

[11] https://www.wur.nl/upload_mm/a/9/f/0e8ad9c2-0e7f-4617-b341-c112258ed701_wawaria.pdf

[12] https://cntpp.dz/

سوق الطاقة المتجدد في منطقة الشرق الأوسط

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تعد منطقة الشرق الأوسط من أفضل المناطق حول العالم للإستفادة من موارد الطاقة الشمسية وطاقة الرياح. إذ وفقا لتقرير (إيرينا) الأخير، فإن منطقة الشرق الأوسط ستحظى بإستثمارات في مشاريع الطاقة المتجددة ب 35مليار دولار وذلك مع حلول عام 2020م. ومؤخرا حظي قطاع الطاقة المتجددة بأسعار تنافسية لتركيب الألواح الشمسية الكهروضوئية ومراوح الرياح.

التطورات الإقليمية

وعلى صعيد منطقة الشرق الأوسط، تبرز المملكة المغربية كمثل رائد يحتدى به في تطوير المشاريع الشمسية لتوليد الطاقة الكهربائية. حيث جعلت الحكومة المغرية تحقيق 2 جيجا من الطاقة الشمسية و 2 جيجا واط من طاقة الرياح هدفا لها بحلول العام 2020م. ويطلق على مشروع الطاقة الشمسية في المغرب إسم (نور). ويأتي بعد المغرب دول عربية أخرى شهدت تقدما واضحا في مشاريع الطاقة الشمسية مثل الأردن ومصر. وفي دول منطقة الخليج العربي، نجد هناك إهتمام جاد لتطوير مشاريع للطاقة الشمسية. ففي الإمارات العربية المتحدة، في العاصمة ابوظبي، محطة (شمس) للطاقة الشمسية المركزة التي تم تدشينها عام 2014م، بقدرة 100 ميغاواط. وفي مدينة دبي تم الإنتهاء من 13 ميغاواط كمرحلة أولى من المحطة الشمسية. أما في المملكة العربية السعودية، فقد أخذت الطاقة الشمسية وطاقة الرياح حصتها من إهتمام رؤية السعودية 2030م، التي أكدت على ضرورة إعتماد خيار الطاقة المتجددة لتنويع مصادر الطاقة في السعودية.

نعمة الطاقة المتجددة

تتعدد مزايا الطاقة المتجددة التي يمكن لدول منطقة الشرق الأوسط الإستفادة منها في أشكال عديدة منها: أمن الطاقة، تحسين نوعية الهواء، والمساهمة في الحد من إنبعاثات الغازات الدفيئة الملوثة في الهواء، فرص العمل و تحقيق للأمن المائي الغذائي.

ويعزز وفرة مصادر الطاقة المتجددة على مدار العام من جدوى نشرها في منطقة الشرق الأوسط، وأيضا ساعد إنخفاض أسعار تكنلوجيا الطاقة الشمسية الكهروضوئية إلى زيادة الإعتماد عليها فمثلا: سجل إنخفاض تكاليف توليد الطاقة المتجددة في مشروع دبي الشمسي لمحمد بن راشد آل مكتوم إلى 5,85 سنت أمريكي لكل كيلوواط ساعة، حيث تعتبر من أدنى المعدلات في الكلفة حول العالم.

تأثير الإنخفاض في الأسعار

سيكون للإنخفاض المتسارع الأثر الكبير في حياة عشرات الملايين من الناس الذين مازلوا يفتقرون إلى إمدادات رخيصة وحديثة للطاقة. حيث سيكون لخفض التكاليف الدور الكبير في مساعدة دول الشرق الأوسط ودول مجلس التعون الخليجي خاصة، لتحقيق هدف التحول نحو مصادر الطاقة المتجددة وبالتالي الحد من الإعتماد على الوقود الأحفوري لتوليد الكهرباء وتحلية مياه البحر. وسيساعد الإنخفاض السعري كذلك، الأسواق الناشئة في الدول النامية لتلبية الطلب على المتزايد للطاقة في دولها.

الاتجاهات الجديدة

توفر تقنيات خارج الشبكة للطاقة الشمسية فرصة ممتازة لنشر الطاقة النظيفة خصوصا في المناطق النائية والبعيدة عن الشبكة الرئيسة. حيث ستضمن التغطية خارج الشبكة للمناطق النائية من الحصول على طاقة نظيفة وموثوقة ورخيصة وستساعد في تغيير حياة الملايين في الدول النامية حول العالم.

وسيساهم المضي في تطوير بطاريات تخزين الطاقة من التوسع في إعتماد مشاريع الطاقة الشمسية، والتوسع في غعتمادها كمصدر متجدد وذو كلفة معقولة. وتتصدر شركات عالمية في البحث والتطوير في مجال تقنيات تخزين الطاقة مثل شركتي تسلا و نيسان، حيث سيساعد تخزين الطاقة إلى التغلب على تحدي التقطع في مصادر الكاقة المتجددة بكافة أشكالها.

وتعد تقنية الطاقة الشمسية المركزة إحدى التقنيات الشمسية المناسبة لدول منطقة الشرق الأوسط، خصوصا فيما يتعلق بتحلية مياه البحر التي ستقلل من هدر إحراق الوقود الأحفوري في عمليات التحلية. حيث توفر هذه التقنية إمدادات مستقرة للطاقة بشكل مستمر من محطات تحلية المياه وستساهم التطورات التقني السريع من إزدياد الإهتمام بخيار الطاقة الشمسية المركزة في منطقة الشرق الأوسط.

مصاعب تواجه إعتماد الطاقة الشمسية

تواجه الطاقة الشمسية في منطقة الشرق الأوسط عدد من التحديات منها: غياب الإطار التنظيمي القوي و إرتفاع الرسوم الجمركية وغياب الدعم المؤسسي للطاقة الشمسية و إنخفاض المردود الإقتصادي نتيجة لعدد من العوامل مثل الدعم الكبير للنفط والغاز.
والجدير بالذكر أن قطاع الطاقة في منطقة الشرق الأوسط، يقبع تحت سيطرة الدولة والحكومة المركزية التي تحد من تنافسية منتجي الطاقة المستقلين و دخول القطاع الخاص من المستثمرين ومطوري المشاريع إلى الأسواق المحلية. وتتصدر الأردن والمغرب دول المنطقة في وجود الإطار التشريعي لدعم مشاريع الطاقة المتجددة تليها المملكة العربية السعودية ودولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة.

نصائح للمستثمرين الجدد في مشاريع الطاقة الشمسية

إن سوق الطاقة الشمسية في منطقة الشرق الأوسط، يعد معقدا نظرا لطبيعة هيكلة سوق الكهرباء ولذلك تنشأ تحديات لاتعد ولا تحصى في كل بلد. لذلك ينبغي على الدول التي تطمح بالتوسع في الإسستفادة من مصدر الطاقة الشمسية، أن تعمل على البنية التحتية و سهولة الوصول إلى الشبكة و إعتماد خطط التراخيص بشكل واضح وشفاف و إعتماد بيانات الأرصاد الجوية ذات الجودة العالية وقضايا أخرى تتعلق بتحسين تقنيات الألواح الشمسية.

ترجمة

إيمان أمان
متخصصة وباحثة في شؤون الطاقة وتغير المناخ

تكاتف المجتمع القطري لإعلاء مبادرات إعادة التدوير

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الحالة الراهنة للاهتمامات البيئية بدوله قطر تبشر بالرغبه من قبل الحكومات الوطنية وغيرها من المؤسسات, والتي دوما ما تؤيد إعلانيا المبادرات الكثيرة للاهتمام بالبيئة. ولكن الحالة االفعلية لا تنم علي الالتزام بهذا العمل. والموضوع السابق نشره بعنوان " المبادرات البيئية في الشرق الاوسط- بين التحديات والحلول", قد القي الضوء علي بعض هذه الثغرات الموجودة ما بين الرغبات والواقع. ولكنه لم يقدم وصفا مفصلا لما يدعم هذا الاتجاه والحلول الممكنة.

وبالتالي تسعي المقاله هنا الي التعمق في مؤسسات الدوله والمجتمعات المدنية بدوله قطر لتقوم بشكل تعاوني علي سد هذه الثغرات وحقن المزيد من التدهورات البيئية, وخاصا فيما يتعلق بإدارة اعادة تدوير المخلفات. واعتقد ان النجاح الحقيقي يتحقق من خلال رفع التوعية في علاقة الفرد ببيئته وكيف يؤثر فيها ويتأثر بها. وهناك من المناطق صعبة الظروف, مع عدم وجود مياه صالحة للشرب ولا أراضي قابله للاستصلاح, وبالرغم من ذلك مطلوب ان يحافظ المكان علي الدورة الهيدرولوجية. فهي بالفعل مناطق تمثل خطوة علي بقاء الدولة.

معركة شاقة ولكن ضرورية

يشعرالافراد بالدوله, سواء مقيمين او زوار لدول مجلس التعاون الخليجي وخاصا لدوله غنية بالنفط مثل قطر, باوجه القصور في مبادرات إعادة التدوير الحالية بالمنطقة.وكشخص زار البلد في ثلاث مناسبات مختلفة استطيع ان اقول لكم بأنني قد لمسات مستويات عالية ومنخفضة لاعادة تدوير الاوعيه ولكن دون جدوي, باستثناء عدد قليل ممن يقع في المدينة التعليمية.

وقد يتصور الفرد ان هذا التنافر استثنائي قادم من فرط التنبيه في واشنطن –امريكا, حيث عادة ما يتم وضع القمامة والعبوات  القابلة لاعادة التدوير معا في الشوارع والمباني.  وما زاد من تكدري الشخصي هو تباعد الاتصال بين المستوي العال للمعيشة, ومستوي المعرفة لإعادة التدوير علي نطاق واسع وحقائقه و عواقبه في المجتمع.علي سبيل المثال, في العام الماضي كان هناك الكثير من التشويق المحيط باعلانات عن الاصلاحات البيئية القادمة في يوليو تموز عام 2014. ولكن يبدو انها لم تؤتي ثمارها المرجوه.

يرتبط بامر اعادة التدوير ظهور بعض العوائق لبرامج اعادة التدويروعوائق المبادرات البيئية: البيروقراطية, اجندة الاعمال وقيود الميزانية كلها تعتبر من التحديات والعوائق التي ترتبط بتأسيس ونجاح منظومة اعادة تدوير. وسبب دائم الارتباط بالميزانية والمصاريف التي تكبل الدوله اكثر من طاقتها.

ولنكن منصفين في هذا الامر. فيجب الاعتراف ان جزء كبير من هذه القضايا يرجع الي من هم ليسوا من اهل البلد اي الوافدين. ولكن لا يجب القول ان هذا عذرا للتخلي عن المسؤلية. فان نسبة 6.8% من الناتج المحلي سوف تكون اولوية لدعم مصروفات كاس العالم والمقرر اقامتها في قطر عام 2022 باضافة الي صادرات النفط والغاز قد وضعت بالفعل مزيد من الضغوط علي منظومة البيئية والتي هي هاشة بالفعل. وسيكون نيجة لذلك ظهور اكثر للمخلفات المنزلية والتجارية. ولا يستلزم الامر القاء المزيد من الخوف للوضع الحالي, ولكن القضية هنا مباشرة, وهي زيادة اعداد المقيمين بدوله قطر ينتج عنها زيادة المخلفات لكل من القطاعات المنزليه والتجاريه. وكما نوهنا مسبقا بواسطة EcoMENA ,المقالة بواسطة Surya Suresh ان البلد تمتلك حاليا منشأه واحدة للنفايات الصلبة في مسيعيد, وثلاثة مدافن صحية للنفايات المتخصصة. والتي تتطلب زيادة اعدادها بزيادة القانطين للبلد.

الحلول الممكنة: حلول فردية وجماعية

ونظرا لبطئ استجابة الدوله للتأخير المستمر لمشاكل إعادة التدوير والقضايا المستقبلية الناجمة عن ذلك, فيجب ان يكون سؤال القارئ الان هو ماذا يمكننا القيام به لعبور هذه المشكله؟. فعلي المستوي الشخصي لابد من تحفيز وتشجيع سكان البلد بتثقيف انفسهم بالوضع والحالة الراهنة للمبادرات, وحصر كامل لكم المخلفات الناتجة يوميا وحصر اماكن تواجدها. ويقدم EcoMENA كثير من المعلومات المفيدة والتي تسهل علي الشخص البسيط فهم وادارك الموقف.

والنقطة الاخيره لعمل مخزون شخصي من المعلومات, هو زيادة التوعية والحد من تأثيرالشخص علي البيئة. وهناك امثله من تجارب شخصية رايتها بنفسي في كثير من الاماكن, وهي تبديل الحقائق البلاستيكية في السوبر ماركت بشنط اخري تحمل علي الظهر وتكون من خامات قابله لاعادة التدوير. وكذلك عبوات التخزين والتي من الممكن ان تكون من الزجاج حتي يسهل اعادة استخدامها وتنظيفها جيدا بين استعمال والاخر. ولكني سابدا بنفسي ثم اصدقائي وعائلتي بالنظر باسلوب ايجابي واكثر وعيا بيئيا ونسعي الي تعزيز السلوك الجيد.

علاوة علي ذلك, قد يكون من المفيد للمجتمع ككل لبدء مناقشة موضوع اعادة التدوير وعدم الانتظار فقط لاجهزة الدولة لمعالجة القضايا. ويمكن البدء بذلك علي مستوي العديد من اهل البلد الاصليين وهم في الغالب الاكثر دراية من غيرهم: مكان عملهم, مساكنهم او الحي القانطين به. ومن المحتمل مناقشة زيادة التكلفه لانشاء منظومة اكثر كفاءة مع مجتمع اكثر حماسة ووعي بيئي.

طبيعة الامم هي التي تحدد ملامح الكيان ورد الفعل المتوقع لاي مشكله تواجه هذه الامه. وفي دوله قطر هناك بعض المؤسسات مثل مجلس المباني الخضراء بقطر, وقادة قطر الخضراء. وهذه المؤسسات تقدم حلول ومعلومات وخدمات تدريبية التي يمكن ان تساعد في اقامة الحوارات الجماعية والحكومية. ومن دواعي التفائل تنظيم الشعب القطري لعملية دعم شعبية لمبادرات اخري, لاسيما التجربة الاولي سنة 2012 لبرنامج اعادة التدوير. والتي نأمل ان تكون بادره قوية لاستمرار العمل في منظومة اعادة التدوير. 

 

 ترجمه: هبة احمد مسلم- دكتور الهندسة البيئية. باحث في الشئون البيئية. معهد الدراسات والبحوث البيئية– جامعه عين شمس.

مدرس بالاكاديمية العربية للعلوم والتكنولوجيا والنقل البحري-  مصر.

التحكم في البيئة والطاقه داخل المباني.

هندسة الميكانيكة- وكيل محرك دويتس الالماني بمصر. 

للتواصل عبر hebamosalam2000@gmail.com   

 

Garbage Woes in Cairo

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Cairo, being one of the largest cities in the world, is home to more than 15 million inhabitants. Like other mega-cities, solid waste management is a huge challenge for Cairo municipality and other stakeholders.  The city produces more than 15,000 tons of solid waste every day which is putting tremendous strain on city’s infrastructure. Waste collection services in Cairo are provided by formal as well as informal sectors. While local authorities, such as the Cairo Cleanliness and Beautification Authority (CCBA), form the formal public sector, the informal public sector is comprised of traditional garbage-collectors (the Zabbaleen).

Around 60 percent of the solid waste is managed by formal as well as informal waste collection, disposal or recycling operations while the rest is thrown on city streets or at illegal dumpsites. The present waste management is causing serious ecological and public health problems in Cairo and adjoining areas. Infact, disposal of solid waste in water bodies has lead to contamination of water supplies is several parts of the city. Waste collection in Cairo is subcontracted to ‘zabbaleen’, local private companies, multinational companies or NGOs. The average collection rate ranges from 0 percent in slums to 90% in affluent residential areas.

The Zabbaleen of Cairo

The Zabbaleen, traditional waste collectors of Cairo, have been responsible for creating one of the world’s most efficient and sustainable resource-recovery and waste-recycling systems. Since 1950’s, the Zabbaleen have been scouring the city of Cairo to collect waste from streets and households using donkey carts and pickup trucks. After bringing the waste to their settlement in Muqattam Village, also called Cairo’s garbage city, the waste is sorted and transformed into useful products like quilts, rugs, paper, livestock food, compost, recycled plastic products etc. After removing recyclable and organic materials, the segregated waste is passed onto various enterprises owned by Zabbaleen families.

A group of Zabbaleen boys at Muqattam Village

The Zabbaleen collect around 60 percent of the total solid waste generated in Cairo and recycle up to 80 percent of the collected waste which is much higher than recycling efficiencies observed in the Western world.  Over the last few decades, the Zabbaleen have refined their collection and sorting methods, built their own labor-operated machines and created a system in which every man, child and woman works.

Tryst with International Companies

In 2002, international waste management companies started operations in Egypt, particularly Cairo, Alexandria and Giza governorates, and the Zabbaleen were sidelined. However after ten years of participation in solid waste management in Cairo, their performance has been dismal. Infact, in 2009 Egyptian government acknowledged that solid waste management has deteriorated alarmingly after the entry of foreign companies.

The waste management situation in Greater Cairo has assumed critical proportions because of high population, increased waste generation and lack of waste collection infrastructure and disposal facilities. Garbage accumulation on streets, along highways and in waterways is a common sight. As a result of the bad performance of multinational private sector companies in SWM in Egypt during the last decade, the level of street cleanliness deteriorated and the pollution resulting from open-burning of trash increased significantly.

Moreover, the Zabbaleen suffered loss of livelihood after the entry of foreign solid waste management companies due to restricted access to their main asset. The mass slaughtering of pigs in 2009, after fears of swine flu epidemic, has lead to accumulation of organic wastes in many parts of the city.

The waste management situation in Cairo is at a serious juncture and concerted efforts are required to improve waste collection and disposal services across the city. The involvement of Zabbaleen is essential to the success of any waste management plan and the Egyptian government must involve all stake-holders is putting together a sustainable waste management for Cairo.

A Homeowner’s Guide To Home Solar System

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As energy prices continue to rise, more homeowners are becoming more curious about solar power. If you’re thinking about going solar, it’s important to do ample research about a home solar system.

To help you get started, this comprehensive guide shares the basics about the home solar system, its benefits, and things to consider when planning to install one.

guide to home solar system

Understanding Solar Energy System

Solar power systems are structures that capture usable energy generated from the sun. They can provide solar power to homes instead of relying on your local electricity provider. Technically speaking, solar energy is captured using a photovoltaic solar panel system.

Each solar panel consists of a glass casing unit, a metal frame, a layer of silicon cells, and several wirings to transfer the electric current. The metal frame and glass casing unit house and protect the silicon cells against weather conditions. These silicon cells are non-metal elements responsible for absorbing sunlight and converting it into usable electricity.

When sunlight hits the panel’s silicon cell, the light causes electrons in the cell to move. This initiates the flow of electric current, also known as direct current (DC) electricity. The wiring captures this DC electricity and feeds it into a solar inverter.

Since most appliances don’t run on direct current, a solar inverter is needed to change the electricity output. The solar inverter converts DC into alternate current (AC) through a transformer.

Homeowners with average DIY skills can mount and install small-scale solar panels. However, if you’re considering powering your home with a full solar system, it’s recommended to choose a solar installer.

Hiring reliable solar installation professionals like Impact Energy Home Solar Installation can ensure that your solar energy system is installed correctly according to local building requirements. In addition, these professionals have the necessary equipment and tools to handle all your solar installation needs.

Why Switch To Solar Energy?

Switching to solar energy comes with numerous benefits. Here are some of them:

1. It Helps You Save On Energy Bills

One of the biggest benefits of switching to solar power is that it helps reduce or completely eliminate your energy bills. Installing a solar panel means you generate your own electricity. Hence, you become less reliant on your local electricity provider, ultimately saving money on your monthly energy bill.

According to experts, the average home equipped with solar panels can save up to 90% on the monthly electric bill. However, keep in mind that this percentage still depends on several factors, including your electricity consumption, home size, solar system size, and location.

Nevertheless, as energy prices keep increasing, solar energy becomes a more viable alternative against rising prices. Since you’ll be generating energy from the sun, you don’t need to rely on expensive power from your local grid.

Also Read: Explore the Power of 12V 100Ah Battery for Off-Grid Adventures

2. It Contributes To Long-Term Sustainability

Solar power is considered a sustainable and clean source of energy. Opting for solar installation can help minimize the production of carbon, pollutants, and other greenhouse gases. It also helps lower your carbon footprint, contributing to a cleaner environment.

Furthermore, unlike other traditional sources of energy, solar power is renewable. This means you won’t ever run out of it as long as the sun shines.

3. It Has The Potential For Extra Income

Aside from its energy bill-saving benefit, installing a home solar system may also help you earn extra income. In the US and most parts of the world, there are several solar incentives you can avail of, such as solar energy credits and net metering. These two initiatives can help you earn bill credits and cash when your solar energy system generates electricity.

A solar credit allows you to get compensated for the electricity your solar energy system produces. Meanwhile, net metering enables you to sell excess energy produced by your solar energy system to your community’s power grid, helping you earn extra cash.

You can check with your local government if they’re offering any of these incentives and if you’re eligible. These incentives can provide you with immediate and long-term returns from your solar investments.

4. Low in Maintenance

Solar panels are low maintenance. Depending on the surrounding area and your location, you only need to clean your panels a couple of times yearly. Also, traditional solar energy systems have no moving parts, so you don’t have to worry about wear and tear.

Hence, you only need regular maintenance inspections on wiring and parts, checking for damages to ensure maximum efficiency. Besides, most reliable solar manufacturers offer extended warranties of 20 years or more to protect you against accidental damages or faulty products.

Things To Consider For Home Solar System Installation

As you can see, solar energy systems can provide you with numerous enticing benefits. If you want to install a solar energy system for your home, here are four factors to consider.

1. Find A Solar Expert

Home solar energy installation is a complex process. Thus, you want to find an expert who can help you navigate the complexity of solar installation and make the switch successful. However, with the increasing demand for expert solar installers, how do you choose the right one?

You can start by asking for references from relatives, friends, or co-workers who recently installed solar energy systems. Alternatively, a simple Google search can provide you with a list of solar installers in your area. You can also use online tools to help you find solar installation companies.

how to maintain your solar panel

Once you have a list, start narrowing down your options by asking them about their qualifications, experience, and credentials. Always ask for their proof of licenses and qualifications.

Furthermore, it’s essential to ensure the solar company is familiar with your local area, building permits, and interconnection processes. Moreover, it helps to ask about their warranties and insurance to protect you against technical issues once installed.

Additionally, it’s best to take the time to research online reviews about the company. You can also ask them for a list of references from previous clients in your area. This provides you with deeper insights into how the company works.

Consider narrowing down your options to three service providers. Plus, it’s best to ask for quotations for your solar installation to help you compare prices and services and find the right contractor for your needs.

2. Understand Your Energy Use

Performing an energy audit and understanding your energy consumption can help you determine the type and size of the solar system you need. In general, you can get the help of your chosen solar contractor for this.

You can take a look at your recent energy bills and determine your annual energy needs. Also, you can review every month of the year to help you identify your consumption trends. For instance, you may use more electricity to keep your home cool during the hot summer months of June through August.

Meanwhile, it also helps to think about your plans for the future. For instance, are you considering buying an electric car next year or building a new room? Such upgrades can affect your overall energy use, so keep them in mind when getting a home solar system.

3. Location

One of the most significant factors to consider when installing residential solar power systems is knowing how much sunlight your home can get. Since solar power systems rely on sunlight to generate energy, you must ensure that your home receives plenty of it for maximum performance.

But it doesn’t mean you have to live in a tropical or sunny location to make solar panels work for your home. Solar panels work well in most climates, even regions with less sunshine. Just don’t expect your solar energy system to be as effective as those in areas that receive the most sunlight.

In addition to your home’s location, it helps to consider nearby structures, including trees, towering condominiums, or even your home’s chimney. These structures can cast shade over your solar panel, reducing its efficiency.

On the other hand, your contractor can help you find the proper placement for your panels and how you can effectively optimize their output, regardless of your location.

4. Solar Placement

Speaking of placement, did you know that you have several options in terms of where you want to install your solar panels?

For most residential homes, rooftop panels are the most common installation placement. It provides the maximum amount of sunlight exposure while also clearing the curb of any potentially hazardous panels or wirings. However, there are several considerations when installing your solar systems on your rooftop.

If you have an older roof but have a vast open space in your backyard, you may consider a ground-mounted system instead. This placement is more applicable for rural homes with hectares of unused land. With a ground-mounted system, you can expand your solar energy system to accommodate your growing needs and provide better access to panels for maintenance.

Meanwhile, if ground space is minimal and your rooftop is out of the question, wall-mounted solar energy systems are a viable answer. If your home has a south-facing wall, you can install solar panels there to capture sunlight for a limited time.

It’s estimated that vertical solar panels can still generate at least 70% of energy. Also, wall-mounted panels are arguably more efficient during winter since the sun is much lower in the sky. Also, you don’t have to worry about snow accumulating on top of the panels, which can disrupt their efficiency.

While it may not be as efficient as other installation options, wall-mounted solar panels still allow you to harness the sun’s energy if both ground and roof installation aren’t suitable.

Takeaway

There’s no doubt that solar energy is the future. If you’re thinking of making the switch, this article has provided you with everything you need to know to make a well-informed decision and make the whole process easier.

Managing Sudden Water Shortage Expenses in MENA Communities: Lessons From International Households

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Countries across the Middle East and North Africa live with some of the lowest freshwater availability per person. Several MENA countries receive less than 500 m³ of freshwater for one person each year. Reports from the FAO and UN Water show that climate patterns, higher temperatures, and population growth continue to put greater pressure on water systems.

When supply suddenly stops, even for a short time, families face unexpected expenses. They should pay more for repairs, bottled water, filtration, or temporary storage. Usually, people should deal with immediate costs for filters, delivered water, pump repairs, or small tanks.

a dry lake in a Gulf country

Below are practical ways households can try to control these costs, and what they can learn from places with similar problems.

Main Expenses During Sudden Water Shortages

When the supply drops, the same types of costs usually appear first, so families already know what to expect. Most expenses break down into the following groups:

  • Drinking water and filtration. When supply becomes unreliable, families buy more bottled water or start using home filters more often. Cartridges wear out more quickly, and some systems need cleaning or an additional filter stage. The World Health Organisation recommends 50–100 litres of water per person per day for basic needs
  • Pump strain and small repairs. Unsteady water pressure puts stress on pumps and valves, so leaks and worn parts are more common. Even a small repair can cost a lot, especially when it has to be done quickly.
  • Compact storage tanks. Many families install small tanks to hold water when it is available. So the final cost includes the tank, fitting work, pipes, and simple level controllers.
  • Delivered water in rural areas. When local wells or lines stop working, water delivery is the only option. According to the World Bank, trucking prices in remote areas can rise around 2–3 times during drought periods

How Households in MENA React

Families across the region usually try to secure a basic amount of water and keep home systems running until the supply returns.

In cities, people rely more on filtered and bottled water or on delivery services. Homeowners may also pay for pump repairs or tank cleaning. In rural or semi-rural areas, people depend more on local wells. The biggest expense here is maintaining the equipment. Another frequent cost is renting or buying tanks for the temporary storage of delivered water.

International Lessons That May Help MENA

Countries that regularly deal with drought offer useful examples of how households can respond to sudden shortages.

California (USA)

During dry periods, households often pay more for water, repair small pump issues, or install temporary filtration. Also, many people order delivered water for daily needs, especially in rural zones.

It becomes difficult to cover all expenses at the same time, so many American families handle unexpected costs by using an option for urgent budget gaps. This way, they can split the costs into affordable installments and manage them more effectively.

Australia

Many families keep small rainwater tanks for basic needs or rely on community filtration systems. Government programs note that even a modest tank can reduce the need for delivered water, and simple filters often cut extra expenses.

South Africa

Cape Town’s “Day Zero” showed how simple habits can help reduce financial pressure. Households reduce consumption, set up temporary tanks, and collect rainwater for everyday use. These steps helped families manage costs during severe water crises.

What MENA Can Use

Here are some low-cost choices that can noticeably reduce spending during outages:

  • Small tanks collect water during stable supply periods.
  • Medium-level filters make the dependence on bottled water a bit lower.
  • Tracking daily water use helps families understand their real needs.
  • Sharing the cost of pumps or filters in communities

Water Budget Planning

Here are two ways to plan a water budget correctly:

Short-term approach

Households usually check their filters, buy a couple of small containers, and calculate how much water they need for the next few days. In cities, delivery services help avoid last-minute stress. In private homes, a small box of spare pump parts often prevents emergency repairs.

Long-term investments

In areas where outages repeat, installing a 200–500 litre tank and a basic multi-stage filter helps to feel more stable. In rural areas, neighbours sometimes share wells and their maintenance.

Practical tips for households

Keeping a small reserve, replacing filters on time, using low-flow taps, and teaching simple saving habits usually help families stay prepared and less stressed.

FAQ

How much water should a household store?

Most official sources suggest having enough for a few days per family member. It’s better to prepare at least 2 liters (67.6 US fl oz) of water per person per day.

What expenses appear most often?

Bottled water, home filtration, pump repairs, and delivery services are among the expenses that most families typically face.

How to prepare for seasonal shortages?

Before a seasonal shortage begins, prepare a basic consumption plan, check equipment, and consider installing a small storage tank. This will help you prevent problems and get ready for these tough days without stress.

Which investments work best long term?

Consider medium-sized tanks and mid-range filters. They often help lower emergency spending.

Conclusion

Sudden water shortages put financial pressure on families across MENA. But we considered lessons from other regions that showed that with simple storage, filtration, and a bit of planning, households can manage these periods without a major increase in everyday costs.

Ethical and Religious Dilemmas Surrounding Stray Dogs and Cats in Jordan

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The growing number of stray dogs and cats on the streets of Jordan poses an increasing risk to public health, quality of life, and public safety. Incidents of dog bites among schoolchildren are rising, alongside the spread of zoonotic diseases, while national legislation prohibits the culling of these animals. Islam, which strongly influences citizens’ perceptions and interactions with animals, emphasizes compassion towards them, creating significant ethical dilemmas.

Public frustration has led to cases of animal poisoning, prompting the Grand Mufti to issue a fatwa permitting the sterilization of aggressive animals. Although Islamic teachings uphold animals’ right to reproduce, distinctions are made between minor and major sins. Various sectors are currently working to expand the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program and are considering the establishment of a dedicated sanctuary for stray animals.

stray dogs in Amman

Introduction

The history of the dog reflects a long process of co-evolution with humans, characterized by continuous development, adaptation, and migration over thousands of years. Archaeological findings, including bones with gnaw marks from the Middle East and the Mediterranean, dated to approximately 14,000 years ago, indicate that the dog is the oldest domesticated animal. Certain species lived in human temples and were provided with generous meals, whereas cats were domesticated much later, around 10,000 years ago.

In Mesopotamia, hunting dogs were considered a status symbol and were employed in hunting and warfare. Some dogs even held religious roles, such as those associated with the goddess Gula in the temple of Ninisina. Throughout history, the role of dogs has evolved—from hunting and protection to companionship and labor in livestock farming and agriculture.

One example is the Canaan dog, also known as the Bedouin Sheepdog, which constitutes most dogs in Jordan. These dogs were renowned for their intelligence and were used in ancient societies as guard dogs, barking whenever Roman forces approached the region, thereby preventing invasions. Today, many specially trained breeds serve as loyal and diligent partners to law enforcement, assisting in narcotics detection, anti-smuggling operations, and search-and-rescue missions.

Cats (Felis catus) trace their origins to the Middle East as human companions in the fight against pests. However, their predatory nature has contributed to the extinction and decline of other species over time, as well as the spread of diseases such as toxoplasmosis, feline leukemia, and rabies. Despite being among humanity’s closest companions, dogs and cats still pose significant health risks.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 55,000 people die annually from rabies transmitted through dog bites, primarily from the estimated 200 million stray dogs worldwide. About 95% of these cases occur in Africa and Asia. Furthermore, the Middle Eastern climate facilitates the spread of diseases such as rabies, echinococcosis, and leishmaniasis, placing additional strain on healthcare systems.

Problem Description

Amman is home to approximately 200,000 stray dogs, in addition to an unknown number of cats. Stray dogs pose a direct threat to humans, particularly schoolchildren, through dog bites, while cats primarily contribute to disease transmission. Hospitals recorded 14,500 patients treated for dog bites in 2024 and 2025, a sharp increase compared to the previous year’s 7,000 cases. Cats also present an indirect risk by causing traffic accidents and spreading infectious diseases as they roam urban areas in search of shelter and food.

Although Jordanian legislation prohibits animal culling, cases of poisoning and other forms of cruelty have been reported, driven by public frustration and attempts to reduce animal populations. Following a fatal incident in which a schoolchild died from a dog attack, the Grand Mufti issued a fatwa permitting the shooting of aggressive dogs that pose a threat to human life. This ruling was misinterpreted as a general license to kill dogs, even those that posed no threat, which was not the intended directive.

To halt the shootings, the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) introduced a dog sterilization program in 2017. Dogs were captured, vaccinated, sterilized by veterinarians, and tagged before being released back onto the streets. The program was implemented following the Grand Mufti’s guidance on Islamic permissibility. Generally, sterilization is considered sinful in Islam, as it alters the natural state of animals created by God and denies them the right to reproduce, which is part of life’s natural order. However, the fatwa weighed societal concerns and child safety against the rapid reproduction of stray dogs, their right to life, and Jordanian law.

Humans, created by God with higher consciousness and stewardship over nature and animals, bear the responsibility of finding sustainable solutions that embody compassion and dignity toward animals. Verse 6:39 of the Qur’an emphasizes coexistence between animal societies and humans:

“There is no creature on earth nor bird that flies with its wings but they are communities like you; We have not neglected anything in Our decision.”

Islam establishes a clear barrier against unethical treatment of animals, including cruelty or killing. A well-known hadith recounts the man who entered paradise for quenching the thirst of a dog as thirsty as himself. Another hadith describes a woman condemned to hell for imprisoning a cat without feeding it or allowing it to seek food on its own.

Impact of Cats on the Ecosystem

The population of cats in Jordanian urban environments is also increasing. Unlike dogs, which pose a direct threat to humans, cats present both an indirect threat to ecosystems and a direct threat as disease vectors. Cats can cause up to 95% of bird populations to relocate out of fear. They act as ecologically disruptive agents, eliminating small species, many of which are vital to ecosystem stability.

At the same time, cats serve as a tool for ecological research on biodiversity in the country. By analyzing the species cats prey upon, researchers can identify indicator species that would otherwise be difficult to detect. Examples include bats and shrews, which signal pollution and habitat changes. Shrews improve soil quality by burrowing for insect prey, while bats play a crucial role in pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal. Cats often hunt at night, when prey is less active and easier to capture.

Studies indicate that cats kill millions of small species globally. They have caused the extinction of at least 63 species, including 40 birds, 21 mammals, and 2 reptiles. Currently, they threaten approximately 367 species and are ranked as the world’s third most harmful invasive species, after chytrid fungus and rats. Their ability to eradicate species is particularly effective on islands but also significant in already disturbed mainland ecosystems.

When dogs attack or bite humans, the behavior is typically instinct-driven. Most stray dogs are not socialized and are unfamiliar with the loud noises, shouting, and playful running of schoolchildren within their perceived territory. Such stimuli can be overwhelming and misinterpreted as a lack of respect or an intrusion into their personal space, which constitutes a significant trigger for aggression.

Many stray dogs prefer solitude and avoid human interaction. They generally attack when experiencing fear or stress. When a dog bites a child, it often employs the same body language it uses with its own puppies. The dog’s perception of the level of disturbance determines the severity of the attack. For instance, when a dog wishes to correct its pup, it bites the face—a method it may replicate with a human child, even though this can result in severe injuries.

In cases of more serious bites, the behavior usually indicates heightened irritation, where the dog’s intent shifts from signaling to causing harm. Conversely, minor irritation may lead to air-snapping in front of the person as a warning. Understanding these behavioral cues is essential for reducing the risk of potential attacks when encountering stray dogs in urban environments.

Conclusion

Given that Islamic law prohibits the culling of animals, a sustainable solution to the stray animal problem in Jordan requires effective collaboration among various sectors and authorities, with strong consideration of religious, humanitarian, and ethical dimensions. Continued implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) method—commonly referred to as trap-neuter-return—is central to this approach.

Economic and technological constraints influence the feasibility and scope of sterilization programs. A cost-benefit analysis can help weigh the advantages of such initiatives against their financial and logistical challenges. The rapid reproduction of stray dogs, coupled with their potential for biting, and the role of cats in spreading public health risks, damaging agriculture and forestry, and contributing to species extinction, strongly indicate that sterilization is a cost-effective measure.

To enhance program efficiency, more veterinarians must be trained in sterilization techniques, which could be achieved by integrating such training into university curricula. Plans to establish designated areas for stray animals are underway but remain limited by economic factors. Public awareness campaigns—such as posters discouraging the feeding of stray animals—are also necessary, as feeding contributes to increased reproduction in urban settings.

The issue is further compounded by the large daily volume of waste that sustains stray populations and accelerates their growth. Therefore, a multifaceted approach is essential for addressing this ethical dilemma. Such measures would improve citizens’ quality of life, reduce disease transmission, and help preserve vulnerable species within the ecosystem.

References

Agria Djurförsäkring. (2024, 6 november). Varför hundar bits och vad du kan göra åt saken. https://www.agria.se

Blancher, P. (2013). Uppskattat antal fåglar dödade av huskatter (Felis catus) i Kanada. Fågelskydd och ekologi, 8(2), 3. http://dx.doi.org/10.5751/ACE-00557-080203

Forskning.se. (2025, 17 november). Hundar har sett olika ut i tusentals år. https://www.forskning.se

Grinell, K. (2017, 11 december). Koranen och skapelsen om sharia, ansvar och ekologisk islam. Dixikon.

Humane World for Animals. (u.å.). Community cats: scientific studies and data. HumanePro. https://www.humanepro.org

International Journal of Environmental Sciences. (2025). Förekomst och zoonotrisk risk för vanliga patogener hos herrelösa och husdjurskatter i Aqaba, Jordanien. International Journal of Environmental Sciences, 3624–3627. https://doi.org/10.64252/5hca2j59

Jordan Times. (2023, 13 maj). Low awareness, lack of legislation exacerbate Jordan’s stray dog issue, say experts. Jordan Times. https://jordantimes.com/news/local/low-awareness-lack-legislation-exacerbate-jordans-stray-dog-issue-say-experts

Khaberni. (2025, 23 oktober). 200,000 stray dogs in Amman and 14,500 bite cases in Jordan over two years. Khaberni.

Local Charities Worldwide. (u.å.). One woman takes care of 400 street dogs in Jordan.

Magle, S. B., & Crowther, M. S. (2023). Ecological impacts of domestic cat activity on wildlife. Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, 11. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/ecology-and-evolution/articles/10.3389/fevo.2023.1282679/full

McClellan, K. (2022). Canine life and death: The affective politics of stray dog management in Jordan. Diyâr. https://doi.org/10.5771/2625-9842-2022-1-101

Price, M., Meier, J., & Arbuckle, B. (2020). Hundekonomier i den antika Mellanöstern och östra Medelhavet. Journal of Field Archaeology, 46(2), 81–92. https://doi.org/10.1080/00934690.2020.1848322

Quran.com. (u.å.). Surah Al-An’am – 165. https://quran.com

Seimenis, A., & Tabbaa, D. (2014). Stray animal populations and public health in the South Mediterranean and the Middle East regions. Veterinaria Italiana, 50(2), 131–136. https://doi.org/10.12834/VETIT.48.134.3

Trouwborst, A., McCornack, P. C., & Camacho, E. M. (2019, 25 juni). Domestic cats and their impacts on biodiversity: A blind spot in the application of nature conservation law. Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution.

Green Ways to Increase Your Property’s Value

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Increasing a property’s value is something that everyone hopes to accomplish during their lifetime. The place in which one owns is usually the biggest asset of a person’s life. Therefore, one should treat it dearly by taking steps to improve its condition over the years. Over the past decade, there has been a huge drive towards achieving sustainability in all facets of our lives. Simply put to be sustainable or “green” means to satisfy your present needs in a way that does not compromise the needs or resources of future generations. More importantly to put this into the context of our home, to be sustainable means to be as efficient as possible and not waste all the resources required for the proper operation and maintenance of it.

In the following paragraphs, we will explore some of the eco-friendly ways to increase your property value in a sustainable manner:

Selecting the right material for sustainable roofs

Yes, there are eco-friendly roofing and the material plays the biggest part of it. In North American houses, roofs are one of the most important and expensive features that need proper maintenance every few years or replacement every 20 to 100 years depending on the roof you have, according to Bartlett Roofing Boise.

Thus, when looking for an eco-friendly roofing most property owners aim for the most cost-effective roofing material, but often times neglect durability and do not think outside the box of how selecting the roofing material can not only improve durability, but also increase your property’s value through other indirect cost savings as a result of having an environmentally friendly green roof.

Some examples of great roofing materials that have a direct effect on both durability and sustainability are discussed below:

1. Cool Roof

It is important to have a white-colored reflective roof, especially when living in hot climates. A light-colored roof does a good job of reflecting and not absorbing UV rays, which can really heat up your home and thus increase your air conditioning bill.

2. Metal Roof

Although metal roofs cost a little bit more than regular roofs, this cost is offset by them being long-lasting, up to 50 years and fire-resistant compared to traditional roofs made out of shingles and wood. Metal roofs are also good for those in dry areas who really want to harvest water from the rain. Another important feature of metal roofs is that they are 100% recyclable at the end of their lives and homeowners can usually get some money back when selling their metal roof for scrap.

3. Recycled Shingles Roof

Recycled shingles come from materials such as plastic, wood, and rubber which can be easily repurposed and reused as shingle materials. Recycled shingles are cheap and are usually the greenest roofing material. They are very durable having a lifespan of about 50 years. The sustainability in this type of roof comes from the low energy used and low pollution in the manufacturing of the recycled shingles.

4. Green Roof

Green roofs are roofs with a vegetative layer that is grown on the rooftop of a house or building. These roofs have grown significantly in the past few years. Green roofs improve your property aesthetics, they reduce energy usage due to the thermal efficiency of the soil and also reduce air pollution. Green roofs can also capture stormwater and return it back through evaporation.

Other green home remodelling ideas that will increase property value

Not every remodeling or renovation type will increase your home’s value when it comes time to sell. The push towards sustainability might make your home a bit different from the others and in general if one can find cost savings within sustainability it will make your home very competitive in a buyer’s real estate market.

The following green home remodeling ideas are what can make a home buyer give you more money when it comes time to sell.

Upgrading Landscape and Curb

The very first thing someone sees when they pull up to your home is the lawn and landscaping. A great luscious green landscape with a proper garden with painted outer fences and walls and adding native plants that reduce water costs and solar lights can drastically make your home greener and improve its appeal to a potential buyer.

Replacing Old Windows

Windows are some of the most expensive things in a home that need replacing every 20 years. However, they are one of the most important features that can save you a lot of money through a reduced energy bill. Old windows tend to leak a lot of air as the sun and environment degrade them over time.

It is important to replace them with a lighter colored Energy Star-rated windows to keep the cold or warm air inside. It is also important to add additional windows to the not so lit areas of your home to brighten it up with some naturally occurring sunlight and get rid of the nonessential lighting within your home.

Low-Flow Faucets and Toilets

These are some of the cheapest things that one can replace in a home and have big savings in their water bill. New faucets and toilets are designed to be as water-efficient as possible by incorporating water with air through an aerator which maintains water pressure.

Solar Water Heater

It is said that water heating usually accounts for up to 20% of a home’s energy bill. Therefore, in places that see a lot of sunlight installing a solar water heater can do wonders to lowering your energy bill. Not to mention installing solar panels on your roof might be expensive, but you can save plenty of money through government programs implemented to buy back the energy that you capture enabling one to save a lot of money and reduce carbon emissions.

Energy-Efficient LED Lighting

Replacing all old light bulbs with LED light bulbs can help a home save roughly $1000 over a 10-year period according to USA Today. LED light bulbs convert electricity into light through the use of a semiconductor. LED light bulbs are much longer-lasting than traditional light bulbs.

Therefore, it is important to not think of green home renovations in terms of costs but it is important to think of them as improving the durability and long term evaluation of your property for the better in a changing world.

Why Community Solar Projects Are Key to Energy Equity

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When you think about clean energy, you probably picture big solar farms or shiny rooftop solar panels. But not everyone can install their own system because they either rent or live in shaded homes. Some can’t afford the upfront costs.

Community solar becomes invaluable in these situations. It gives you a chance to benefit from shared clean energy, even when traditional solar installation isn’t possible. More importantly, it creates a pathway toward energy equity, helping more people access affordable and reliable electricity.

a community solar project in Africa

Renewable energy projects aim to fill the gap by providing fairer access to clean power and reducing long-term barriers that hinder community development.

Why Solar Energy Systems Matter

In 2022, the World Bank estimated that 13 million people in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region had no access to electricity. Many more struggle with high energy costs or unreliable power. Energy equity means that everyone—regardless of income level, housing type, or location—has the opportunity to benefit from clean, renewable energy.

Traditional home-based systems often widen the gap because only homeowners with the right conditions can install them. Community solar levels the playing field by making clean power subscription based.

Imagine two families in the same neighborhood. One owns a home with a sunny roof and can install solar panels at any time. The other rents an apartment and has no option for rooftop systems. Community solar allows both households to participate equally, access lower costs, and shrink their carbon footprint together. Over time, that inclusive approach strengthens neighborhoods and supports a cleaner, more reliable utility grid for everyone.

Community-driven models also encourage more local involvement. Residents often become part of community solar subscriber organizations, which help educate neighbors, distribute subscriptions, and keep the system running smoothly. These groups are crucial for reaching underserved communities that have historically had fewer opportunities to adopt clean technologies.

Addressing Common Challenges in Community Solar

One common issue is the lack of clear, user-friendly comparison tools. Many people want to join, but they struggle to understand different plans, pricing, and benefits. This is where a community solar marketplace becomes helpful. By consolidating multiple projects into a single, accessible platform, marketplaces simplify the process of comparing subscription options, reviewing subscription fee structures, and selecting a reliable community solar provider that suits your budget.

A good marketplace also partners with a trusted solar energy company, which brings essential expertise in design, financing, and long-term operations. This professional support ensures projects run smoothly, deliver promised savings, and maintain their systems for decades. It addresses reliability concerns and gives communities confidence that their subscription will truly support clean power and bill savings.

How Community Solar Expands Access to Clean Power

Community solar projects allow you to subscribe to a portion of a shared solar array located in your region. Instead of placing panels on your roof, you tap into a centralized solar facility and receive solar bill credits based on your share of solar energy generation. It’s a simple idea with a powerful impact: you get clean power and predictable savings without making any changes to your home.

These shared systems are especially valuable for low-income households. When you’re already juggling monthly expenses, anything that helps lower energy costs makes a difference. Through community solar programs, subscribers typically receive a credit on their electricity bills. This cost-cutting measure helps households manage rising prices and seasonal changes in electricity use.

It also boosts solar access for renters and urban residents. Even if you don’t have your own roof, you can still join a project and contribute to carbon emissions reduction. In many areas, policies like net metering strengthen savings, making community solar even more attractive for everyday users.

How Community Solar Strengthens Local Communities

When you join or support a shared solar project, your participation can trigger positive ripple effects. These systems often generate local jobs, from construction to maintenance. They create shared public spaces, such as a solar garden, and they support cleaner air by increasing local renewable electricity output. And as more people join, communities become less dependent on fossil fuels and more resilient during outages.

Community solar even opens doors for innovative technologies. With cleaner energy sources on hand, communities can integrate smarter home upgrades and charging solutions. They can also reduce reliance on traditional power sources that create pollution, helping shape a healthier future for the next generation.

a community solar project in the MENA region

How Broader Goals Shape Community Solar’s Future?

Government targets and energy strategies influence how quickly shared solar spreads. When regions set strong goals for clean electricity, more funding, partnerships, and incentives follow. This momentum helps bring more community solar farms to life, increasing total solar capacity and making renewable power more accessible.

A great example of this is the MENA region’s renewable energy target, which has encouraged countries to accelerate investments in solar generation facilities. These goals create an enabling environment for community-based models, particularly in areas where access to clean electricity remains uneven. Strong policy direction encourages innovation, unlocks financing, and supports more inclusive energy programs that reach disadvantaged communities.

Broader energy goals also help stabilize the power grid. As more projects come online, shared solar reduces pressure on the grid during peak hours and improves long-term reliability. This benefits everyone, even those who aren’t yet subscribed.

Conclusion: Expanding Clean Power for All

Community solar gives you an affordable, flexible, and fair way to benefit from clean energy—even if rooftop systems aren’t an option. These shared projects lower bills, reduce emissions, and expand access for people who need it most. And when combined with strong policy support, innovative marketplaces, and community involvement, they become a powerful tool for delivering long-term energy equity.

By supporting and joining community solar, you help create a cleaner, more inclusive energy future; one where every household has a real chance to benefit from sustainable power.

The Holy Quran: A New Ecological Paradigm

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Among the world scriptures, the Holy Quran provides a unique resource for building a new ecological paradigm. Grounded in the Abrahamic tradition, it presents a harmonious view of nature reminiscent of the Far East.

In the Quran, “whatsoever is the heavens and on the earth glorifies God” (59:1; 61:1; 62:1; 64:1). “The stars and the trees prostrate” (55:6), “the thunder hymns His praise” (13:13), and “unto God prostrates whosoever is in the heavens and whosoever is on the earth, the sun, the moon, the stars, the mountains, the trees, and the beasts” (22:18). In these and many other verses, the whole of creation is presented as a Divine symphony, for “there is no thing, save that it hymns His praise, though you do not understand their praise. Truly He is Clement, Forgiving” (17:44).

Quran-environmental-crisis

Common Cause of Humanity

According to a research from the Pew Research Center, by 2050, over 60% of the world’s population will be Christian or Muslim: 29.7% will be Muslim and 31.4% will be Christian. Muslims and Christians have no choice but to come together to work for the common cause of humanity in confronting this unprecedented challenge. Moreover, to take root in humanity any sustainable ecological worldview must incorporate and address the teachings that much of humanity seeks to follow.

As Pope Francis observed, the solutions cannot come from science and technology alone. The extinction of species and the eradication of pristine environments are like the removal of a section from this orchestra of which we are all a part.

The Quran thus enjoins us to “walk not exultantly upon the earth” (17:63) and to view the whole of nature as “signs for a people who hear” (10:67; 16:65; 30:23), “signs for a people who reflect” (13:3; 30:21), and “signs for a people who understand” (2:164; 13:4; 16:12, 67; 30:24; 45:5).

Yet, in our rapacious approach to nature, we have failed to reflect and thus become like those of whom the Quran says, “they have hearts with which they understand not; they have eyes with which they see not; and they have ears with which they hear not” (7:179). Unable to see, listen and understand, we have become like one of whom the Quran warns, “when he turns away [from God’s signs], he endeavors to work corruption upon the earth, and to destroy tillage and offspring” (2:205).

Relevance of the Papal Encyclical

Pope Francis’ encyclical on the environment, Laudato Si (“Praised Be”), is a clarion call to all of humanity. It also provides an important opportunity to expand the conversation regarding the relationship between religion and the environment. Many scientists maintain that we have reached “decade zero” for addressing climate change. We thus have no choice but to mine the riches of all the world’s traditions to create new paradigms and new solutions to environmental degradation. As the encyclical states, “We need a conversation which includes everyone, since the environmental challenge we are undergoing and its human roots, concern and affect us all.”

The Papal Encyclical provides an unprecedented opportunity for the people of the world’s faith traditions to turn away from the corruption we have wrought and open our hearts to one another and to the plea of Mother Nature. For her fate will be determined by the decisions of our generation. By drawing upon the shared teachings of our traditions, humanity can again learn to honor the immutable rights of rivers, animals and trees, as well as human beings suffering inhumane working conditions.

By bearing witness of our own transgressions, we can reverse our course and ensure that the rights of God’s creation prevail over the transient interests of corporations. As Pope Francis observed, we have no choice but to take this direction and to work with one another.

For Muslims and Christians, the place of human beings is not to subdue the earth. It is to hear the patterns already established within nature and live in harmony with them, had we but eyes to see and ears to hear. In both Christianity and Islam, human beings are presented as stewards of the earth. In the Quran, this responsibility is both an honor and a trial.

Verse 6:165 states, God it is Who appointed you stewards upon the earth and raised some of you by degrees above others, that He may try you in that which He has given you. From this perspective, being stewards of nature is about our responsibility toward God, not our dominion over creation. Neither the Bible nor the Quran has any place for what Pope Francis calls “a tyrannical anthropocentrism unconcerned for other creatures.

We will thus be held accountable for the degree to which we have carried out our function as stewards. As the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is reported to have said, “The world is a green and pleasant thing. God has made you stewards of it, and looks at how you behave.“

Conclusion

Given the state of the environmental crisis and the alarming increase in environmental degradation, one cannot but conclude that contemporary humanity has failed this test. The world and our children can no longer afford the cost of our failures. It is thus time that people of all faiths unite and in the words of Martin Luther King, “rededicate ourselves to the long and bitter, but beautiful, struggle for a new world.”

Things You Should Know About Mattress Disposal

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When you start to live a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle, you’ll find that you spend more time recycling and reusing items rather than simply throwing them away. The less waste you can create, the more the environment can thrive. However, there will be times in your life when you’re simply not sure what you need to do to get rid of an old item that you no longer have use for.

If your old and lumpy mattress is far past its best and you can’t donate it to someone in need, then you’ll need to figure out how you’re going to dispose of it without causing any excess damage to the environment.  Here are a few things you’ll need to know about disposing of your old mattress.

1. Always Try Donating First

The average mattress lasts for anywhere between 7 and 8 years. If you’ve decided to get a new mattress, but your old one isn’t completely worn out yet, then you might be able to donate the old product to an organization in need of help.

One particularly good option for international donors is the Salvation Army. This group has thrift stores throughout the world, and the group can provide a furniture pickup service for mattress donations in certain locations. Donations to the Salvation Army are tax-deductible too. If the salvation army isn’t an option, try:

  •       Habitat for Humanity International
  •       Furniture Bank Association of America
  •       Goodwill
  •       Local charity stores
  •       Homeless shelters

Remember, your mattress needs to be in good condition for a donation. That means no tears, no damage that might cause discomfort to a new user, and no bedbugs!

2. Recycling is the Second Best Option

If a donation isn’t possible for you, then you can consider recycling your mattress instead. Up to 90% of your mattress can be recycled and repurposed to create new products. To make sure that you’re recycling your mattress correctly, you’ll need to go online and track down the nearest recycling center that accepts mattresses.

There are likely to be a few options in your local area. For a small fee, some companies will even pick the mattress up for you if you don’t have a way to get the item to them. Remember, most centers will allow you to submit a mattress for recycling if it isn’t in the best condition. However, recycling centers will not take mattresses that have been exposed to pests or bed bugs. Check the terms and conditions of your recycling plant.

recycling-bin-dubai

3. Junk Removal Companies Can Help You Out

Finally, if you’re getting rid of a mattress that can’t be recycled, and isn’t any good for donation, then your only option will be to have it removed by a junk removal company. These businesses will take items to the dump if they need to go there, but most junk removal companies will also try to recycle or donate used mattresses before simply throwing them away.

Residential junk removal services have the right people and expertise to handle the challenging task of decluttering and disposing of unwanted items in your home. These services typically employ skilled and experienced professionals trained to efficiently and safely remove various types of junk, whether it’s old mattresses, furniture, appliances, electronics, construction debris, or general household clutter.

Using these kinds of companies will cost you a small amount of money, depending on the size and weight of the mattress. Many will charge by volume, although others do charge on a per-item basis. You should also consider checking the warranty of your old mattress before you get rid of it, as the manufacturer might offer disposal services.

But how do you prepare your old mattress for junk removal? You can follow some steps to ensure a smooth and efficient pickup by the removal service. Firstly, strip the mattress off all bedding and linens and ensure it’s completely bare. Inspect the mattress for any hazardous materials, like bedbugs, and inform the removal service accordingly if found. In case of rain or moisture concerns, protect the mattress by covering it with a plastic mattress bag or a large plastic sheet.

If your mattress is part of a larger bed frame, disassemble it as needed. Ensure that all hazardous materials, like sharp edges and protruding springs, are out of children’s reach. Communicate with the removal service in advance, schedule a pickup, and discuss any specific requirements they may have regarding size or weight restrictions. On the scheduled pickup day, be present or provide access to the removal team and comply with local regulations for mattress disposal.

Additionally, if you’re replacing your old bed with a new one, see whether the company that you’re buying the new mattress from offer a removal service. Some companies are more than happy to responsibly dispose of your old mattress when they deliver your new one.

نصائح لتقليل النفايات الغذائية

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للنفايات الغذائية آثار بيئية واقتصادية واجتماعية أيضاً. إن ارتفاع معدلات الدخل والإنفاق الفردية، ومستوى المعيشة، والقدرة على الإنفاق، وسلوكياتنا في إهدار الطعام تؤثر سلباً على مواردنا المحدودة. فأصبح من الشائع أن نرى أكوام من الطعام المتبقي في أطباق الطعام في مراكز التسوق والمطاعم. وللأسف فإن القدرة على الإنفاق أدت إلى زيادة متسارعة في إنتاج وتراكم النفايات الغذائية في دول الشرق الأوسط عامة، وفي دول مجلس التعاون الخليجي خاصة.

food-waste-GCC

ويمكن قياس خطورة الوضع من خلال الحقائق التي تبيّن أنه يتم إنتاج أكثر من 300 طن من النفايات الغذائية يومياً في البحرين، مما يشكل حوالي 11% من النفايات البلدية. حيث يتم إلقاء جميع هذه النفايات في صناديق القمامة ثم جمعها من قِبل مقاولي البلدية، ثم تنقل إلى مكب العسكر الواقع على بعد 25 كليوم متر عن المدينة.

يتوجب على سكان دول الشرق الأوسط أن يدركوا أننا نستورد كميات كبيرة من المواد الغذائية ثم نهدرها دون مبالاة في القمامة. و تشير التقديرات إلى أن ربع الأطعمة التي يتم شرائها تتعفن ويتم إلقاؤها في سلة المهملات قبل أن يتم استخدامها أو أكلها.

يميل الناس إلى شراء كميات أكبر مما يحتاجون، أو مما يمكنهم استهلاكه. وغالباً ما يتركون الطعام الذي تم طلبه أو شراؤه نصف مأكول، وهو سلوك شائع ولكنه غير سليم.

إن ترك بقايا الطعام هو توجه خاطئ يؤدي إلى زيادة الهدر للمواد الغذائية المشتراة، التي لا يتم استخدامها بشكل كامل أو كفؤ، فينتهي بها المطاف في صناديق القمامة. بالإضافة إلى ذلك،  فإن هدر الطعام يكون بنسبة أكبر خلال الموائد المفتوحة (البوفيهات)، حيث تكون خيارات الأطباق أكثر وبكميات غير محدودة. يجب أن يكون التوجه نحو اختيار ما نستطيع أكله فقط.

لقد ازدادت تكلفة الأطعمة المطبوخة وغير المطبوخة بشكل ملحوظ في السنوات الأخيرة، مما زاد الضغط على الميزانية المحلية لأرباب الأُسر الذين يكافحون بالفعل لمواجهة تكاليف المعيشة، والسكن، والرعاية الطبية، والنقل وغيرها. مهمتنا الأولى هي تقليل كمية النفايات الغذائية القابلة للتحلل الحيوي من أن ينتهي بها المطاف إلى صناديق القمامة -ومن ثم إلى مكب النفايات. بالإضافة إلى ذلك، إذا قمنا بتطبيق عملية جمع النفايات الغذائية، فإننا نقوم بإزالة جزء كبير من المكونات القابلة للتحلل الحيوي من صندوق القمامة. ويجب علينا أن ندرك أن وصول الطعام إلى المكب وتحلله حيوياً ينتج كمية غازات دفيئة أكثر.

food-waste-qatar

للنفايات الغذائية آثار بيئية واقتصادية واجتماعية

جدية الأمر تتطلب اتباع عادات غذائية وسلوكيات أفضل؛ “أن تأخذ ما تستطيع أن تأكله احتراماً للطبيعة الأم”. يكمن الحل الاجتماعي والثقافي في اتباع طريقة ذكية للتعامل مع الطعام وتجنب إهداره.

دعونا نمارس النصائح التالية للتقليل من النفايات الغذائية في الشرق الأوسط:

  1. اشترِ ما تريد بالفعل وبكميات محددة.
  2. شراء المواد الغذائية وخاصة الفاكهة والخضراوات بكميات قليلة وبناءً على حاجتك فقط.
  3. حاول استخدام الكميات بالشكل الأمثل وتناول ما يتبقى منها أيضا.
  4. لا تخجل من أخذ/تغليف ما يتبقى من الطعام في الحفلات، فهذا لن يؤثر على احترامك لذاتك وسمعتك.
  5. يومياً تفقد المواد الغذائية الموجودة في الثلاجة/المجمّد، وسلة الفاكهة الخاصة بك، وتأكد من المواد القابلة للتعفن وانتهاء الصلاحية. وقم باستخدامها أو التبرع بها قبل أن تصبح من النفايات.
  6. نحن بحاجة لاتباع أجدادنا في أسلوبهم في “شراء الأقل وتناول بقايا الطعام”، والذي أصبح موضة قديمة بحسب ما يعرف بعادات العصر الحديث.

ترجمة: بثينة أبو روزا

ناشطة اجتماعية وبيئية ،رائدة أعمال والمؤسس لشركة قطوف للتدريب التنموي البيئي والتي تعتبر المركز الاول محليا وإقليما  المعتمد من مؤسسة  سيتي أند جيلد ( City & Guilds) البريطانية المختصة بالتدريب والتعليم المهني، وفقا للمعايير الدولية وبشهادات دولية صادرة من بريطانيا وبمسار مهني في إدارة النفايات وإعادة التدوير.