Cereal Supply Chain in the MENA Region

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The cereal supply chain in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is highly exposed to disruption risks due to vulnerabilities at both production and post-production stages. Inappropriate climate conditions, water scarcity, fragmented farm structure, insufficient access to input, and inappropriate use of arable land are some prominent production-related problems. On the other hand, high harvest-post-harvest losses, lack of storage capacity, heavy dependence on imports, and lack of investment in technology are among post-production vulnerabilities.

wheat field in the middle east

The World Bank classifies MENA region as comprising 19 countries, spanning from the Atlantic Ocean (adjacent to Morocco) to the Arabian Sea (adjacent to Oman), with only eight of those, namely Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Tunisia have substantial cereal production. Remaining 11 countries; Bahrain, Djibouti, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, and Yemen have very less or no production. In 2022 total wheat and barley production of the region was 38.5 million tons, whereas total consumption was far higher, with around 90 million tons. The gap between production and total consumption fills in with import, leading the region to be one of the largest wheat-barley importing zone in the world (22% of global total imports) by 49 million tons in 2022 (FAO, 2024 a,b).

Individually assessing the countries in the region, none exhibit self-sufficiency in wheat. Bahrain, Djibouti, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen have ratios below 10%, demonstrating near-total dependence on imports. Conversely, Algeria, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Lebanon, Libya, and Palestine have ratios ranging from 15% to 45%. Lastly, Iran, Iraq, and Egypt possess ratios exceeding 50% (FAO, 2024c). It is crucial to acknowledge that, despite a high self-sufficiency ratio, the majority of cereal imports in the region originate from nations that produce cereal, where 82% of the total population resides.

wheat imports in MENA

Source: FAO 2024c

Measures for mitigating risks and improving resilience of cereal supply chain in MENA

Measures for risk mitigation and improvement of resilience in the cereal supply chain differ upon factors of climatic conditions, cereal production capacities, agronomic practices, land structure, storage and transportation infrastructure, gross domestic product, population growth and import dependency ratio. As conditions of 19 MENA countries differ from each other, measures that should be taken are based on specific conditions of each of them.

For instance, building stockpiles is a critical measure that could be preferred by all MENA countries because of their dependence on import. However, the countries that have no production and heavily dependent on import could embrace this policy more, bearing in mind that stockpiling is exposed to the risks of spoilage and so, a good management is essential.

Scientific literature indicates that countries worldwide are actively pursuing free trade agreements (FTAs) to enhance international economic and trade collaboration, since they provide increased flexibility in regulations and facilitate coordination. This sort of regional and/or free trade agreements with cereal exporting countries could be more binding to ensure sustainable flow of cereals by minimizing exposure to the risks of export restrictions at the time of crises (Zeng et al. 2025).

Countries that have moderate cereal production have more options for mitigating risks and improving resilience in supply chain. In addition to the measures mentioned above, those countries could focus on improving productivity of their domestic production which is significantly low in MENA countries. Use of improved varieties, climate-smart agronomic practices, efficient water management, integrated pest and disease management, advanced mechanization and use of up-to-date technology in production do not only increase productivity but also ensure sustainable use of resources and decrease environmental impacts.

MENA region demonstrates substantial harvest and post-harvest losses, with an average of 14% of the total yield from 2000 to 2022 (FAO, 2024d). This figure is substantially higher than the global average of 4%. Minimizing losses along supply chain will reduce import dependency, increase producers’ income and stabilize domestic prices. Timely harvesting, coupled with appropriately calibrated harvesters, enhanced transportation and storage facilities, and an efficient market that considers the interests of producers can increase production by minimizing losses at harvest and post-harvest stages.

Productivity increase and loss reduction measures can succeed when paired with an inclusive extension program, a target-oriented agricultural research initiative, and substantial infrastructural investments which should be funded by the governments since it could be very costly. A top-down strategy that facilitates the engagement of all stakeholders in the value chain should be favored when establishing programs, ensuring that they incorporate diverse perspectives and ultimately encourage stakeholders to embrace measures and policies developed in collaboration.

Acknowledgements

This work is supported by the CERERE project. CERERE (CEreals REsiliency REvolution for agile supply chain management in the Mediterranean) is funded by the PRIMA Programme 2023 – Section 1 – Food Value-chain 2023 – Topic 1.3.1 (RIA) – Increasing resilience of agri-food supply chain (cereal) in the MENA region, Grant Agreement No. 2331 (Deliverable 2.5: Macroeconomic analysis of cereal supply chain in the MENA region and in the Mediterranean area). The views expressed belong to the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the PRIMA Foundation.

References

FAO (2024a, December 20). Crops and livestock products. Retrieved January 23, 2025, from https://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/QCL

FAO (2024b, December 20). Crops and livestock products. Retrieved January 23, 2025, from https://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/TCL

FAO (2024c, December 20). Part-5- Metadata. Retrieved January 23, 2025, from https://www.fao.org/4/i2490e/i2490e05.pdf

FAO (2024d, December 20).  Food balances (2010 -). Retrieved January 23, 2025, from https://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/FBS

Zeng H, Chen S, Zhang H and Xu J (2025) The effects and mechanisms of deep free trade agreements on agricultural global value chains. Front. Sustain. Food Syst. 8:1523091. doi: 10.3389/fsufs.2024.1523091

السواك : فرشاة الأسنان العربية العضوية

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منذ القدم, استخدم الإنسان العديد من التقنيات الطبيعية للحفاظ على صحة الفم والأسنان, ومن هذه الأدوات استخدم أغضان وجذور الأشجار المتواجدة طبيعياً في المناطق التي قطنها, ومن هذه الأشجار شجرة الآراك أو Salvadora persica  المنتشرة في المنطقة العربية. تسمى الأعواد المشتقة من شجرة الآراك بالمسواك أو السواك, يرجع إستخدام السواك في المنطقة العربية إلى عصر ما قبل الإسلام,  لكن كان للإسلام عظيم الأثر في إنتشار وإستمرارية إستخدام السواك في العالم, فكما ورد في الأحاديث الشريفة عن الرسول محمد صلى الله عليه وسلم يعتبر إستخدام السواك جزءاً مهماً من الطقوس الدينية الإسلامية للحفاظ على نظافة الفم وصحة الأسنان واللسان, كما نسبت الأحاديث  النبوية العديد من الفوائد الصحية الأخرى للسواك بما في ذلك تعزيز الذاكرة والبصر، والمساعدة على الهضم، وتخفيف الصداع، وتخفيف ألم الطواحين وتقوية مخارج نطق الكلام وتصفية الصوت والتخلص من بحة الصوت.

natural toothbrush

شجرة الآراك

تنتمي شجرة الآراك إلى الفصيلة الآراكية, وهي شجرة دائمة الخضرة تعيش في المناطق الحارّة والإستوائيّة والصحراويّة, أزهارها صفراء تميل إلى الخضرة، أما ثمارها والتي تسمى بالكباث فهي صغيرة الحجم بطعم ٍ حلوٍ يكون لونها في البداية أخضراً ومن  ثم يتحول إلى الأحمر وعند النضج  تصبح سوداء اللون, وتتميز شجرة الآراك – أو كما تسمّى أحياناً شجرة السواك- بمقاومتها للجفاف وملوحة التربة.

فوائد الآراك الصحية والإقتصادية

من الناحية الصحية, فإن القيمة العلاجية والطبية الفريدة للسواك مثبتة وبالأدلة العلمية, حيث يمزج السواك بين عنصريين أساسيين للحفاظ على صحة الفم والأسنان وهما: المواد الكيميائية الفعالة ذات الخواص المضادة للجراثيم الضارة, والتقنيات الميكانيكية المرنة التي تساعد على الوصول إلى جميع المناطق في الفم دون القيام بحت الأسنان وبالتالي عدم التسبّب بحساسيتها ودون التسبب بأي أذى للثة. ولقد أظهرت الأبحاث أن السواك إذا ما استخدم بالطريقة الصحيحة فإنه يحافظ على صحة الفم بفعالية عالية ويعمل كمضاد للمايكروبات المسببة لإصفرار الأسنان وتشكل طبقة البلاك plaque ، كما أنه يمتلك خصائص طبية تجعل منه علاجاً فعالاً لإلتهاب اللثة وأداة ممتازة لتبييض وتطهير الأسنان ووسيلة للقضاء على رائحة الفم الكريهة مع توفير رائحة فم لطيفة. كما ولقد ثبت علمياً أن تركيب السواك يحوي مكونات طبيعية مفيدة تعمل كمواد مضادة للإلتهاب والإحتقان وعلاج تسوس الأسنان والتي لا توجد عادة في معاجين الأسنان التجارية .

وهذا ولقد حصل السواك على قبول عالمي حيث شجعت منظمة الصحة العالمية على إستخدام عصي المضغ كأداة فعالة للحفاظ على النظافة الفموية. أما تجارياً، فلقد أنتجت بعض البلدان مثل السعودية ومصر وسويسرا والهند والباكستان وماليزيا معاجين أسنان تحوي العناصر الفعالة الموجودة في شجرة الآراك.

يعد الآراك أو S.persica    من الناحية الإقتصادية نباتاً متعدد التطبيقات, إذ يستفاد من ثماره كفاكهة تمتاز بحلاوة الطعم ذات قيمة غذائية عالية للإنسان والطير, كما وترعى النوق والأغنام على أوراقه وثماره وأغضانه حيث أنها غنية بالدهون وتساعد على زيادة وزن المواشي وكمية إنتاجها من الحليب, كما وتحوي أوراق وثمار الآراك مواد غذائيّة مهمّة تعمل على تقوّية أجسام الأغنام والإبل, أيضاً يستخرج من الآراك الصمغ والراتنجات (Resin). بالإضافة إلى ذلك، فإنه يستخدم كنبات في تربية النحل والناتج في هذه الحالة عسلٌ غني بالمركبات الطبية الطبيعية. ليس هذا فحسب,  بل وتحتوي بذور الآراك على نسبةٍ عاليةٍ جداً من الزيت تصل إلى 40% من محتوى هذه البذور, هذا الزيت ذو قيمةٍ اقتصاديةٍ مرتفعة حيث يستخدم في صناعة الصابون والمنظفات ويعتبر هذا الزيت بديلاً جيداً لزيت جوز الهند, ويستخدم زيت الآراك موضعياً على الجلد لعلاج الروماتيزم وتمسح به أجساد الأطفال الحديثي الولادة نظراً لخواصه المطهرة .

مما لا شك فيه أن السواك أداة إقتصادية للحفاظ على نظافة الفم نظرًا لوفرتها ولسهولة إنتاجها،  ولكن ومن المدهش أنه وبالرغم من الإستخدام التاريخي والواسع النطاق للسواك في المنطقة العربية, إلا أنه لم يتم بحث إستخدامه سابقاً من الناحية البيئية كأداة للحفاظ على الصحة الفموية ومقارنة ذلك مع تحقيق أهداف التنمية المستدامة, إذ يمكن إستغلال الإستخدام الواسع للسواك في البلاد الإسلامية بيئياً وذلك بتقديم السواك كأداة صديقة للبيئة وفريدة من نوعها  لتنظيف الفم والأسنان كما سيوضح لاحقا.

فوائد الآراك البيئية

أولاً من الناحية الزراعية

تنتشر زراعة الآراك أو S.persica على نطاق واسع في عدة مناطق في شبه الجزيرة العربية وذلك ليس فقط لإستخدام فروعها كفراشي أسنان طبيعية، إنما أيضاً لتوظيف النبات نفسه كمصداتٍ للرياحِ ولتشكيل أحزمةٍ طبيعيةٍ لحماية محاصيل البستنة والزراعة, كما وتُزرع أشجار الآراك في الأودية الصحراويّة لتثبيت التربة ومنع إنجرافها, هذا وتساعد زراعتها في إستصلاح موائل الكثبان الرملية وإستغلال التربة المالحة في الزراعة.

ثانياً من ناحية الحفاظ على المصادر الطبيعية

تعتبر عمليتي إنتاج السواك وإستهلاكه عمليتان مستدامتان وتحافظان على عناصر البيئة من ماء وهواء وتربة,  فمن حيث التركيب فهو يتركب من مادة عضوية بحتة متوفرة طبيعياً,  أما من ناحية الإنتاج فلا تحتاج عملية إنتاجه إلى خبرة أو أية موارد أو مواد إضافية أو مصانع أومعدات ضخمة, كما أنه على عكس عملية تصنيع فراشي الأسنان ومعاجين الأسنان الصناعية, فإن إنتاج السواك لا يولد نفايات صناعية نهائياً ولا يلوث الهواء كما تفعل الصناعات الحديثة, أضف إلى ذلك أن إنتاجه  يعتمد بشكل كامل على الطاقة الشمسية الطبيعية فقط فهو بذلك موفر للطاقة ولا يعتمد على طاقة الوقود الأحفوري الملوثة للبيئة,  أما من ناحية إستهلاك المياه  فإن نبتة S.persica تتمتع بقدرة عالية على تحمل ملوحة التربة حيث يمكن لبذور هذا النبات أن تنمو في ماءٍ مالحٍ معدل ملوحته dsm 15,

كما تتميز هذه النبتة بإستهلاكها الضئيل للماء حيث أن شجرة الأراك قادرة على تحمل بيئة قاحلة للغاية مع متوسط ​​هطول أمطار أقل من 200 ملم سنوياً.  وحتى بعد الإستخدام, فإن السواك صديق للبيئة حيث أن التخلص من بقاياه سهل جداً نظراً لطبيعته العضوية.

السواك وأهداف التنمية المستدامة للأمم المتحدة

وعند الرجوع إلى أهداف التنمية المستدامة للأمم المتحدة (SDG), نجد أن إستخدام السواك كبديل مستدام لفرشاة الأسنان الصناعية يحقق بصورة مباشرة أو غير مباشرة الأهداف التالية :

  1. الهدف الثالث المتمثل بتمتع الجميع بأنماط عيش صحية.
  2. الهدف السادس المتمثل بتوافر المياه للجميع وإدارتها إدارة مستدامة.
  3. الهدف السابع المتمثل بالطاقة نظيفة والمستدامة.
  4. الهدف الحادي عشر المتمثل بمدن ومجتمعات محلية مستدامة.
  5. الهدف الثاني عشر المتمثل بوجود أنماط إستهلاك وإنتاج مستدامة.

الخلاصة

مما سبق يستنتج أنه يمكن تبني السواك بسهولة كفرشاة أسنان صديقة للبيئة وكبديل أخضر لفرشاة الأسنان البلاستيكية التقليدية للحفاظ على نظافة الفم وصحة الأسنان, حيث أنه فرشاة أسنان عضوية طبيعية تتميز بوفرتها وبسهولة إستخدامها وبإنخفاض تكلفتها وتكلفة إنتاجها وتوفيرها للماء والطاقة مع عدم إنتاجها للنفايات الصناعية أو تسببها بالتلوث سواء في أثناء عملية التصنيع أو بعد الإنتهاء من الإستخدام, هذا وإن زراعتها تعتبر إستصلاحاً للتربة المالحة  وذات قيمة إقتصادية وبيئية مهمة.

Are Wooden Gates Worth It?

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Gates are important – if situated at the entrance to any property they provide the first impression for visitors – so what impression do you want them to have? Is security and deterrence the key issue, is it aesthetics or is it simply functionality – a convenient way to access fields for livestock – or a combination of these? Whatever your requirement you can be assured that there’s a wooden gate option that will work for you.

Read on to know the multiple benefits of wooden gates:

why wood might be the best choice for your next gate

Wood gates are generally cheaper than metal

Metal gates tend to come in steel or aluminum and in a number of different sizes and designs, the same as wood, however there are many different types of both soft and hard wood that wooden gates can be made from. The more common softwood varieties include the common Redwood, or ‘Scots Pine’, and the remarkably sturdy Red Cedar, whilst hard woods include Iroko and European Oak.

Softwood gates are more cost-effective than their hardwood counterparts, and cheaper than metal gates with a typical lifespan of between 7 and 8 years, subject to regular maintenance and the application of preservative (some gates come with a level of protection added but check carefully prior to purchase).

Depending on the type of more durable hardwood you select the price will be more compatible with metal gates but still generally cheaper. Iroko is a long lasting, stable and attractive wood that offers a fantastic lifespan, and European Oak is a denser wood that is very resistant to fungal and insect attacks, thanks to its high tannin content.

Wooden gates are an affordable option for first-time farmers, or householders and landowners on a budget.

Wooden gates are strong

As well as being cost-effective, wooden gates, when properly treated and maintained, can be more than strong enough for most applications, whilst obviously not being as strong and durable as metal alternatives. Wood gates need to be protected from pests, heavy wind and rain, and harsh UV light. Regular coats of protective sealant or preservative can safeguard a wooden gate and prolong its lifespan for many years.

Wooden gates are easy to repair

Unlike metal gates, wooden gates can be repaired relatively quickly and cheaply, often by someone with competent DIY skills and standard maintenance tools. Metal however requires specialist repair such as welding which can be expensive and inconvenient to arrange. The trick with wood is to ensure against the need for major repairs by undertaking regular checks against small damage that might deteriorate and cause the need for major repairs at a later stage.

You need to ensure wood is properly and appropriately protected. Metal gates might not need such regular maintenance as wood but when metal gates do need repair it is more of a complex and costly undertaking.

Wooden gates are aesthetically pleasing

As well as offering a number of physical benefits, wooden gates are commonly chosen for their classic appearance, especially in a rural or countryside setting where the organic appeal of wood is compelling. After all, wooden gates have been used for centuries, and their aesthetic is something we tend to appreciate as wooden gates create a classic country look to improve the appearance of any outdoor space.

Metal gates on the other hand have a more austere, functional aesthetic. Treated carefully, wooden gates can last many years whilst creating that desired ageing effect that many people, especially homeowners, find aesthetically pleasing.

Wooden gates are versatile

Wooden gates are extremely versatile. They can be installed as a means of entrance or exit for both agricultural and residential properties. There is a huge range of wooden gates to choose from. Make sure you weigh up the pros and cons of each type of wooden gate before you make an informed decision and start the installation process.

When it comes to installing a new gate at your property remember that wooden gates have many advantages over metal alternatives and with such a wide range of options to choose from, you are guaranteed to find a wooden gate to suit you and your individual budget and requirements.

Environmental NGOs as a Trigger for Social Good – a Jordanian Perspective

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While growing in number and scope with each passing year, environmental NGOs in Jordan are striving to become a model in civil society participation, collaborative governance and social impact. They are demonstrating how green advocates can lead by example and become a role model for other development leaders. Those non-for-profits are challenged to not only be the watchdogs and outreach arms but also act as community organizers and change agents that our country and region aspire for.

Jordan-GBC

In harmony with the overall awakening of social entrepreneurship and youth movement within MENA region, green startups and community-based initiatives are climbing to the top as platforms for youth to express their views and take action. Jordan might be an exception in that it specifically enjoys the presence of a large educated young population coupled with a huge pressure on infrastructure and resources magnified by the influx of refugees from neighboring countries.  Such circumstances while being a tremendous challenge also form an opportunity to advance innovation and entrepreneurship especially for urban water, energy and environmental solutions.

Recent statistics show that an average of 48 Jordanian NGOs is established each month mounting up to around 3800 in 2014. Out of those, ninety-two are already registered as environmental societies with over half of them located outside the capital Amman. Eight NGOs sharing common environmental goals formed together the first Federation for Environmental NGOs and hope to be more impactful when united.

Whether all of this is enabled by the supportive legal and regulatory framework or powered by increased awareness among the population of the role of civil society in sustainable development; it is an evolution that calls for some reflection! Does this figure reflect a real grass-roots movement towards a sustainable way of living? Are these green NGOs a representation of a stronger public-private-community dialogue on environmental issues? And can we – as Jordanians and environmentalists – sense/measure the impact of real change on the ground?

While no one might have the evidence-based answer to all of those questions, there is no doubt that the green civil society experience in Jordan forms a unique model across the country and the MENA region. It is led mostly by Jordanian professionals and activists with shared inclination to making a difference. Younger generations are more conscious and action oriented when it comes to sustainable development.

In and outside Amman, volunteerism and community-based activities are becoming more innovative and inclusive providing hope for a better future. Nevertheless, NGOs still struggle with their institutional and financial sustainability and mostly fall behind in finding innovative ways to survive the increased competition.

The Beginning and The Evolution

Back in the 60s, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) was established as the first entity focusing on wildlife protection and nature management in Jordan, prior to the existence of any environmental authority. RSCN continues to perform its functions via a legal mandate and delegation from the Government of Jordan in the areas of hunting regulation and protected areas management forming an excellent partnership model with the public sector.

Today, RSCN deploys sustainable development principles in the protected areas demonstrating job creation and community development in their good standards. Dana Natural Reserve is an international eco-tourism destination because of those successful partnerships. Nature protection is no longer a hurdle to development but rather a pillar to ensure its sustainability. Aiming to bridge the skill and knowledge gap in nature protection and eco-tourism, RSCN established the international-standard “Royal Academy for Nature Conservation”.

With the first environmental protection law that was issued in 1995 and the further institutional development through the establishment of the Ministry of Environment in 2003; it became inevitable for civil society organizations to be part of the evolution. Introducing environmental management tools such as environmental impact assessment (EIA) required public participation and consultation. Several NGOs were established and trained to take part in those consultations and ensure new projects take both the environment and society into consideration from as early as the planning stage.

Triggered by its scarce natural resources and commitment to international environmental treaties, Jordan went as far as integrating environment into its trade agreements. The US-Jordan Free Trade Agreement was the first to include an environmental chapter. Further bilateral and multilateral agreements such as the EU-Jordan Association Agreement included sustainability and environment as a pillar and as a cross-cutting issue that should safeguard cooperation in various development sectors. NGOs needed to cope with all of that and raise the bar for more synergy between environment, community and economic development.

The New Language

For a long time, the core focus of the environmental community has been on protection and conservation. Jordanians still recall the advocacy breakthrough of 2006 when the environmental NGOs exerted exceptional pressure on the legislative and executive bodies to prevent the approval of the Agriculture Law amendments that was foreseen to jeopardize the important forest areas by opening them for purchase by investors.

Today, Jordan is aggressively pursuing green economy targets as the first country in the MENA Region to conduct a scoping study and prepare a strategy for green growth. The ninety-two environmental NGOs would need to be well prepared for a completely different argument. Away from green, the socio-economic dimension will be the winner with more demand for jobs, local economic development and innovation. Environmental mainstreaming into development sectors would be the new strategic planning tool to ensure sustainability. Concepts of smart cities and green infrastructure should start to show on pilot and large scales how quality investment is attracted and high paying jobs are created.

Jordan_ClimateChange

For the first time, green businesses are coming together to establish business associations that advocate for better enabling environment and fuel green economy. Such private sector led organizations work to provide needed platforms and tools to equip green labor force and organize dialogue with the public sector and international community. The progress made by the private sector to become more organized through business association should be leveraged and further expanded to incorporate more companies especially startups and SMEs.

The Leap

In May 2014 and as a marked step towards a stronger impact, eight environmental NGOs decided to formalize their partnership through establishing the “Jordanian Federation for Environmental NGOs”, commencing a new era of green social impact, policy advocacy and good governance. The eight founding NGOs are: Jordan Environment Society (JES), Royal Society for Conservation of Nature (RSCN), Jordan Royal Marine Conservation Society (JREDS), Energy Conservation and Environmental Sustainability Society, Arab Group for the Protection of Nature, Jordan Society for Combating Desertification, Organic Farming Society, and the Jordan Green Building Council. They bring a mix of the old and new united by their shared concerns, passion and vision.

The federation’s internal bylaw stipulates the goals of the “Jordanian Federation for Environmental NGOs” to cover the following areas: policy and legal advocacy, awareness raising and capacity building, coordination and collaboration among members and across the sector, data and information dissemination, and members support. While many are unaware of the existence of the federation, it is only by action that it will prove vital for Jordan and sustainable development as a whole.

A Meaningful Impact

Throughout the years, the relationship between the green sector players had its ups and downs especially in how the public sector managed the engagement with the private sector and civil society. It is evident that this relationship has grown in the past few years triggered mainly by the need for stronger positions towards the huge challenges facing environment in Jordan and the realization of the important role that each party can play in achieving sustainable development goals. NGOs were the main advocate to stop a government decision to merge the Ministries of Environment and Municipal Affairs in 2012.

As mature as it would prove to be, the Federation for Environmental NGOs bears the responsibility of the whole sector’s maturity especially when it comes to improved dialogue and coordination. The visionary leaders who realized the value of uniting for a cause are those who need to cascade such vision to the other sectors. Shifting from reactive to proactive, NGOs are obliged to change mindset of their boards and staff to be able to change communities. The world is more convinced that the private sector holds the promise for green economy, green jobs and better future.

However, very little synergy is found with the educational, research and innovation institutions which are crucial to develop the brains and change the mindset. Innovation in green is not kicking off as it should be in MENA. Research, science and technology continue to be disconnected from market needs. The NGOs and business associations need to step up as drivers for a well integrated change process that assures people as well as the green enterprises of their safe and flourishing future.

Let’s not wait and see but let’s join the movement and make it happen!

How to Convert Scrap Tires into Biofuel

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Waste disposal is a serious concern these days, especially with the increasing public awareness of the need to protect the environment. Solid wastes like old tires present complicated disposal problems. Large, hollow, durable, and non-biodegradable, old tires can take up substantial space in landfills. Leaving tires to nature can also be problematic as mosquitoes and other pests may thrive on them.

Scrap_Tires

In the United States, an estimated 300 million scrap tires are produced every year. Around the world, the number jumps to about 2 billion. Fortunately, there are several ways to recycle scrap tires including conversion into biofuels.

What is Tire-Derived Fuel?

Tire or rubber recycling can take on several forms. Tires can be reused in railway lines to reduce vibration. It can also be used as construction materials in playgrounds, running tracks, and other facilities.

One of the best ways to reuse scrap tires is to convert these to biofuel. Generally referred to as tire-derived fuel (TDF), it is a cleaner, more sustainable, and cheaper alternative to fuel. TDF provides an advanced and practical approach to tire recycling, and widely used in industrial facilities worldwide including pulp and paper kilns, cement kilns, and electric utilities.

As a supplemental fuel, it helps companies generate savings in energy costs while increasing boiler efficiency and lowering air emissions. It is estimated that more than half of the scrap tires generated yearly are used as TDF.

With its high heat value, scrap tires are an excellent fuel source. Consider that the heating value of an average passenger tire can go up to 15,000 British thermal units (Btu) per pound, which is even better than the 12,000Btu per pound of coal.

On a grander scale, scrap tires represent a viable energy source. Based on the average discard rate of 300 million tires a year, it is estimated that old tires can produce energy equivalent to around 17 million barrels of oil. This is roughly less than 1% of the energy needs in the United States.

Conversion of old tires into biofuel

There are two physical actions involved in the conversion of tires into biofuel: shredding and pyrolysis, or the decomposition of the tires by exposing it at high temperatures and the use of a special catalyst.

TDF processing may involve whole tires or tires cut down into uniform species. The size of the tire for fuel conversion would largely depend on the kind of combustion unit to be utilized.

In shredding rubber, scrap tires can be entirely placed into the shredder. There is also the option to have the beads extracted before shredding. Shredders are high-shear and low-torque in nature capable of reducing truck tires with an outside diameter of 48 inches to 1 to 4-inch pieces.

After the tires have been cut into smaller pieces, these are then fed into a pyrolysis reactor. In this machine, the rubber is softened by exposing it to high temperatures that can exceed 700 degrees Celsius. At high-temperature heating, rubber polymers would break down into smaller molecules. These would then vaporize and exit from the pyrolysis reactor.

The vapor can be condensed into bio-oil or pyrolysis oil, an oily type of liquid. It can also be burned directly for power production. Some molecules too tiny to condense remain as gas and burned as fuel.

Critical to this process is the heating rate of a tire as it can affect reaction time, product quality and yield, and energy requirement. In instances when the heating temperature is at around 450 degrees Celsius, the product is liquid which is often a mix of hydrocarbon. At heating temperatures above 700 degrees Celsius, the primary product is synthetic gas or syngas primarily because of cracking of the liquids.

Aside from being used as biofuels, the derived byproducts of bio-oil and syngas can be used as feedstock for refining chemical products. Bio-oil is coveted for its low sulfur and residual carbon content aside from having a high calorific value. It is used in paper mills, cement kilns, power plants, foundries, industrial furnaces, and other industries.

The solid residue from scrap tires called char contains inorganic matter and carbon black. It is commonly used as activated carbon or smokeless fuel in the rubber industry.

In Australia, however, a tire recycling process does not require the shredding of scrap tires in order to convert it into biofuel. The Victoria-based Green Distillation Technologies processes all kinds of tires including the super singles with a diameter of 1.2 meters. The tires are loaded into an airtight process chamber. Shredding, crumbling, or chopping of the tires are not required.

The tires are then subjected to high-temperature heating which serves as a catalyst for a chemical reaction. The tires are destructed into various compounds, one of which is gathered and condensed into the oil. This is the same as the bio-oil produced by a pyrolysis reactor.

Application of Tire-Derived Fuel

As mentioned earlier, biofuel from scrap tires is useful in various industries such as cement manufacturing. TDF is used by cement makers to augment their fuel for firing cement kilns. The use of tires as fuel has also been proven to help in reducing the emission of harmful chemicals into the air.

TDF is also tapped by pulp and paper companies to supplement wood waste, the main fuel used in powering pump mill boilers. TDF has a higher heat value than wood waste while helping overcome operating problems such as low heat content and high moisture content. The use of TDF likewise helps pulp and paper mills lower their fuel costs and improve their combustion efficiency. It can also help improve the public image of paper mill boilers.

To conclude, converting scrap tires into biofuels present a practical energy source for many industries around the world. Thermal conversion of tires into an alternative and clean fuel is considered an environment-friendly and practical approach to disposing of a difficult solid waste.

5 Places Where You Can Use Cable Railing to Improve Home Style

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People nowadays prefer to have a sustainable lifestyle and a green way of living and choosing eco-friendly items has become a norm. Therefore, you can find that people are using cable railing of stainless steel while taking up any kind of home improvement project.

It is nowadays very common to see stainless steel railings in many different homes. Also, stainless steel can be quite durable and strong.

The following are a few places where people prefer to use cable railings while considering home improvement.

1. Balcony and terrace

Most of the home has a balcony area, where you can have a railing option. Not only this will offer safety, but also cable railing can offer a secure and versatile structure for opening up this space.

cable-railing

In case, your balcony is large enough for hosting dining, then such railing can be an ideal option for creating an unobtrusive barrier, and also you will be able to soak up surrounding garden areas.

In most modern homes, cable railing is used for getting an outstanding view of the scenery, and with such a unique idea; it can provide a beautiful transition to all your indoor and outdoor areas.

2. Outside decking

Perhaps this area is the most popular place where cable railing can be incorporated because it can create quite an uninterrupted feel for your garden area. With this option, you can make maximum use of the exterior space during summer.

You can also think of creating dining alfresco to enjoy its distinctive aesthetics. Your cable railing needs low maintenance, as they are easy to clean and will keep it looking untouched all year round.

This kind of railing will be able to withstand various weather conditions and yet will look as if it is just installed.

3. Internal staircases

Even for your internal staircases, cable railing will provide very stylish solutions. In your home, railings are a very important part to provide safety features to the staircase, but that should not be the reason to use a material that will not work with your original interior design.

While innovating, often the staircase gets lower priority, but putting a little change into this area will open up space and can create light pockets to offer a contemporary look.

4. Poolside railing

Those who have built a swimming pool in the backyard, putting barriers usually are necessary for keeping everyone safe. You can have several options for incorporating barrier, but few may need lots of maintenance.

For offering a chic poolside feature, you can use cable railing. Not only cable railing of stainless steel will provide unobtrusive elements around your pool, but also it will offer a style to properly match your garden themes.

It can also be easily installed and maintained although it can be near water; it may not affect the appearance of the metal.

5. Entrances and pathways

For creating an ultimate curb appeal, cable railing of stainless steel is ideal for having striking entrance-ways. You can easily incorporate into your landscaping of front garden areas and your beautiful floral arrangements will not be disturbed at all.

Sewer Mining: A Game-Changer for Water-Scarce Cities in MENA

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Sustainability is important everywhere, and it is especially urgent in places with rapidly growing populations that are more prone to lower water scarcity.  The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s hot and dry climate puts cities at risk. However, MENA’s water-scarce cities produce a ton of wastewater that can potentially be treated to accommodate their water needs.

wastewater utilization

What is Sewer Mining?

Sewer mining is when wastewater is harvested and treated to remove contaminants and separate certain chemicals so that it can be reused. It is typically sourced and treated locally. It can reduce the demand for potable water by offering a localized, alternative source for non-potable applications.

The sewer mining system is composed of two main units — a membrane bioreactor and a reverse osmosis unit. They are joined together into one compact system that makes them easier to transport. These units work together to filter wastewater and make it safe to use for agriculture, landscaping, irrigation or possibly drinking water.

Sewer Mining in MENA

The MENA region is the most water-stressed region worldwide. It is a good contender for sewer mining due to its overabundance of available wastewater and the growing need for clean water, especially in its cities.

Using Sewer Mining to Fight Water Scarcity

MENA has many water-scarce cities with untapped potential. Untreated wastewater could poison the existing fresh water if left where it is. This could further endanger public health and add to the water crisis.

However, the growing populations in MENA’s cities produce enough wastewater that, if properly utilized and thoroughly treated, could help combat the water scarcity issue. The potential to transform a pollutant into a valuable commodity is appealing to many researchers and stakeholders.

Challenges of Treating Wastewater

Regulations and laws currently in place are not adequate to force cities to convert their wastewater. Some laws even put restrictions on wastewater treatment or aspects of it that hinder the process. There are also no clear incentives for treating wastewater — unless there is a money-based incentive, the job will likely not get done.

A disconnect between different industries within the cities also accounts for the lack of opportunities for wastewater treatment. If industries do not work together to provide their own assistance in this crisis, then solving the problem will be more difficult.

Pipes within the cities’ sewer lines may be weak or broken, considering that wastewater is contaminating some freshwater. A solution would be to use trenchless sewer repair, as opposed to repairs that require digging up half the land to fix the pipes. Trenchless sewer repair involves releasing an epoxy resin into a pipe that builds a new one inside it. This technique eliminates hefty construction jobs and decreases the contamination of clean water.

Cultural barriers and distrust in cities also play a role. Many people think reusing wastewater is unsanitary or will cause health issues. To make a real change, it is important for everyone to understand how the treatment can successfully get rid of harmful contaminants and be on board with the idea.

Potential Benefits of Utilizing Wastewater

Treating and using wastewater could increase the amount of water available for MENA’s water-scarce cities’ growing population. Wastewater can be used on a farm to irrigate and fertilize the soil, and it contains many nutrients that can help plants.

Wastewater contains carbon that can be converted into methane, which could potentially produce electricity for a large number of houses. When using it for energy, consider the environmental impacts of whichever energy method is chosen. Solar and wind energy solutions are more sustainable options.

Forestry, agriculture and landscaping are other industries that can utilize wastewater. Providing treated wastewater to all of these companies can limit water scarcity in MENA’s cities and provide an economic cushion for the city’s industries.

The Danger of Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is not just an issue in the MENA region. It is a global concern. Pollution is poisoning many known water resources, and climate change is causing other sources to dry up. Population growth, as seen in the MENA region’s cities, is happening in many regions worldwide, which is only making water scarcity worse. The amount of water on the planet cannot compete with the demanding thirst.

Negative effects of this water loss are numerous, spanning environmental and social consequences. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Limited drinking water
  • Disease outbreaks and other health risks
  • Stunted crop growth
  • Wetlands disappearing
  • Increased pollution concentration
  • Damages to entire ecosystems
  • Economic hardships
  • Conflicts between communities or nations

Reusing resources with untapped potential, like wastewater, is the key to a more sustainable future. It can significantly contribute to urban resilience, especially in regions prone to droughts.

wastewater treatment plant

Case Studies of Sustainable Wastewater Treatment

Technology exists to remove harmful chemicals and extract usable nutrients from wastewater. Wastewater treatment is most successful when it can be done sustainably and within closed-loop systems. In Massachusetts, a facility is using a photovoltaic system to manage wastewater from commercial and residential off-put. Photovoltaic systems are solar-powered, so they can reduce atmospheric pollution.

California is also struggling to meet drinking water demands due to droughts in the region, which affect over 2 billion people annually. To combat this issue, the Orange County Water District is generating millions of gallons of drinking water a day to serve residents.

Utilizing Wastewater

Wastewater is a largely untapped resource, especially in MENA’s water-scarce cities. To be more sustainable, it is important to look for ways to reuse waste so that it does not sit there and accumulate while populations suffer. Proper regulations and supportive professionals are needed to make sewer mining doable in these cities, especially so they get their investment in the sewer mining system back. Teamwork, like in many environmental issues, is the solution.

How Device Trade-In Fuels Sustainable Progress

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Upgrading tech is easy. The harder part is figuring out what to do with the old stuff once you’ve moved on. Most people hold onto it without any real reason, not because they need it, but because tossing electronics in the trash feels wrong. And it should. Every device that gets made comes from materials pulled out of the ground, and many of those are in finite supply.

That’s why trade-ins are such a great option. A buyback program is one of the few ways the average person can directly cut down on e-waste. A phone or computer you don’t use anymore still has components that can be repaired, reused, or recycled in ways that save energy and resources.

trade-in program for mobile phones

The Bigger Problem We’re Trying to Fix

Electronic waste is growing faster than any other kind of waste. Millions of tons are thrown out every year, and only a small part of it gets recycled the right way. A lot of the rest gets sent to places that don’t have the tools to process it safely, so it ends up burned, buried, or taken apart by hand, and that poisons the soil and water around the people who live there. The damage doesn’t stop there either, as the pollution spreads and lingers long after the devices are gone.

Trade-in programs help slow that cycle down. When old phones get refurbished and reused, less have to be built from scratch. That saves on materials, manufacturing energy, and the shipping that comes with global production. It may not be a perfect solution, but it’s one that makes a visible dent in a growing problem.

What Trade-In Programs Do

When a company like RakeRock buys used electronics, each item goes through testing to see what can be salvaged. Devices that still work get refurbished for resale, and ones that can’t be fixed are taken apart so their batteries, displays, and processors can go toward other repairs. What’s left over gets recycled through certified facilities that recover valuable metals and safely process what can’t be reused.

Phones and other electronics often contain copper, gold, lithium, and other elements that take an enormous effort to mine and refine. Reusing those parts reduces the need for new materials and lowers the overall footprint of manufacturing.

ways to reduce e-waste

Convenience Makes It Work

The biggest reason trade-ins succeed is because they’re easy. You don’t need to create a post, find a buyer, or argue over prices. You get a quote online, ship your device with a prepaid label, and get paid once it’s inspected. That simplicity is what makes people follow through instead of putting it off. Most of us mean to recycle our old electronics but never get around to it because it feels like a hassle. Trade-in programs remove that barrier by doing all the work for you.

Turning Reuse Into a Routine

You don’t have to wait until you’ve collected a pile of outdated gear to do something with it. Instead, make it part of your upgrade process. When you replace something, send the old one out right away. You’ll clear space, get a quick payout (which reduces the financial hit of your new purchase), and keep the materials in motion instead of letting them sit around losing value. If it’s something you haven’t used in years, it still might have life left in it for someone else.

A cracked screen or bad battery doesn’t mean the whole device is useless — those are often the first parts replaced during refurbishing.

The Bigger Shift

Trade-ins are part of a larger cultural shift in how we think about technology. For decades, the tech world pushed constant replacement: newer, thinner, faster. Now, the conversation is starting to change. More people are realizing that reuse is progress, and the future of sustainable tech is about making sure innovation doesn’t leave a mountain of trash behind.

How Professional Cleaning Services Are Reducing Their Environmental Impact

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Many cleaning businesses are changing how they provide their services, and they are trying their best to meet changing environmentally-conscious standards. They are using safer and less toxic cleaning solutions and evolving methods that have a reduced environmental impact.

business premises being cleaned by a professional cleaner

Natural Cleaners to Replace Toxic Ones

One of the biggest and most widespread changes we are seeing in cleaning companies across the world is the changeover from toxic chemicals to natural, safe ones. It is the man-made chemicals that are tough on the environment and that create a large carbon footprint, but the ones made from naturally occurring elements are safer for people and are not dangerous for the environment.

Cleaning companies are replacing parabens, phthalates, chlorine, and other toxic components with lemon juice, baking soda, and vinegar. These can sometimes have a strong smell, but they don’t leave behind a toxic residue and do not contribute to environmental decay.

This is happening on a very wide scale and is making such a difference. Businesses and homeowners that hire cleaners with these eco-friendly practices are reporting that they have safer environments where the air is easier to breathe, and they are reporting fewer allergic reactions to cleaning chemicals as well. They feel safer having kids and pets around areas that have been professionally cleaned.

Instead of volatile organic compounds being released into the air, inert components are used, and the result is transformative. People feel better, and surfaces are being cleaned every bit as well as before. This is one change that is generally easy to make and that also makes quite a difference.

Reducing Water Usage

Water is one of our most valuable resources. It is difficult and expensive to create clean, potable water, so many cleaning companies are finding ways to reduce their water usage. This leaves more of this necessary natural resource for others to use and saves valuable resources that are expended to produce clean water.

Cleaning companies in Philly and other places are cutting down on water use in a multitude of ways. They are using buckets of water instead of making use of running water. They are using water bottles instead of hoses, and so forth. They are ensuring that there is no unnecessary waste of water, and they are taking measures to protect this valuable resource.

This is especially important during times of drought, where there is little water available, but cleaning still needs to be done. Is your cleaning company using water carefully and conservatively or are they being wasteful? You can always ask them about their green practices and if they are making smart use of resources.

Less Waste in Packaging

How many disposable items does the average cleaning company use when cleaning a home or a business? It could be a lot depending on how large the property is that they are cleaning as well as the kind of cleaning practices that they engage in. They may be burning through disable scrubbing pads and cloths as well as packaging for cleaning chemicals, and the amount of plastic and paper that is used in a single cleaning can be tremendous.

Not every cleaning company is so wasteful, though, and there is a big trend in the right direction that is seeing many cleaning services opt for reusable items instead of disposable ones. That’s a very healthy trend, because it means not only is the packaging not being tossed but also the cleaning tool itself is not being tossed. That is conservation of multiple items for a single cleaning service.

It can be difficult for companies to break out of their old habits and to change their ways to be more environmentally conscious, but we are seeing more and more companies adopt sensible wastage practices so that fewer items are being thrown away and more items are being reused. Companies that do this are often able to pass their savings onto the customer, since it costs them less in the long run to use reusable items that last for a long time.

rug cleaning innovations

Using Energy Efficient Equipment

This is another environmentally conscious change that can take some work to implement but that really pays off for the environment over time. When cleaning companies use energy efficient cleaning tools and methods, they are conserving energy, saving the environment, and helping their clients have a positive environmental impact.

Think about the amount of energy used to run a pressure washer or to run multiple loads of laundry. Think about how much energy is used to run a powerful vacuum cleaner or a suction machine used to clean carpets. These tools were built in the past to simply be as powerful as possible so the work could be done as quickly as possible. Now, companies that design the machines are thinking about how they can be energy conscious.

Many cleaning companies are switching over and are gradually changing out their energy hungry machine for energy conscious ones. They are using less energy and still get their clients’ homes and businesses clean. Be sure to ask your cleaning company about the kind of cleaning tools they use. Ask them how important it is to them to conserve energy and to be efficient with their resources.

Finding the Right Cleaning Company

Because professional cleaning is such a competitive industry right now, there are lots of choices for you to pick from. That means that you can find energy conscious and environmentally conscious cleaning companies if you take the time to look. Spend some time comparing different cleaning services in your area and each out to them and ask them questions about the services they offer.

You can find a cleaning company that really does care about the environment and that makes an effort to save energy and save you money. If you want to do your part to protect the environment and you want your home or business to be clean as well, you can accomplish both by hiring the right cleaning service.

Biodiversity Conservation in Jordan: Perspectives

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Jordan is situated at the center of unique biota, representing the biodiversity of dry lands. The natural ecosystems in Jordan support human activities in agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, tourism, traditional and pharmaceutical health products, traditional medicine and many others. These ecosystems are also important for their intrinsic value, and for protection of overall environmental quality.

The Levant states in general, and Jordan in particular, went through changes during the past two centuries from various anthropogenic activities. These changes are threatening the natural ecosystems, which have been destroyed to make way for agricultural, industrial, or housing developments. Species biodiversity have been severely affected, with many facing extinction. Rare and endemic plant and animals are endangered.

biodiversity in jordan

Biodiversity in Jordan

Despite its relatively small size, Jordan is highly rich in biodiversity. The country is divided into four different bio-geographical zones – the Mediterranean, Irano -Turanian, saharo-Arabian and Sudania. These zones are key elements in supporting biodiversity, containing three major ecosystems – terrestrial, marine, and wetland.

Biodiversity in Jordan has been seriously threatened in recent years. Natural areas and wildlife has been severely affected due to rapid urban growth resulting from population growth, large-scale migration and rapid industrial expansion has led to depletion of natural ecosystems. Agriculture, animal-grazing, construction and other human activities has led to soil erosion, desertification and fragmentation of the land and reduction or extinction of wildlife. Furthermore, the increasing stress on limited water supplies has led to overexploitation of water resources and a decline in its quality and general decline in biological systems.

The agricultural expansion has led to ecological changes in two ways: decrease in population of some species due to alteration of their natural habitat, and over-exploitation of water resources. For some species, the lack of water has forced the animals to move or die, although for others it has increased their population. Rampant use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers has contaminated soil and water resources while reckless use of heavy agricultural machinery on marginal arid lands has encouraged soil erosion.

Overgrazing is widely recognized as harmful to ecosystems as it may lead to desertification, which increases atmospheric dust; such dust creates a health problem for both humans and wildlife. Furthermore, overgrazing is harmful for soil microorganisms on which the health of the entire ecosystem depends upon. Desertification and deforestation causes the land to deteriorate rapidly. Although Jordan is committed to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), illegal hunting and trapping is still common which is threatening a host of wildlife species. Traffic and vehicular movement is increasing rapidly in Jordan which is also reading to soil erosion and death of animals.

Roadmap for Biodiversity Conservation

Jordan is working toward more profound strategic policies and actions to meet the requirements of the Convention on Biological Diversity. At the national level, the goal is to raise public awareness about nature as related to the conservation of biodiversity, and to direct national concern in different sectors about the conservation and management of Jordan’s natural habitat in a sustainable way. Decision makers in Jordan should be more aware of the threats facing biological diversity and the degree of its deterioration.

An important development is a multidisciplinary approach that uses geographic information system (GIS) analysis. The plan should involve many stakeholders, including the government, specialized nongovernmental organizations, local communities, and representatives research initiations and universities.

As a response to the urgent need for conservation of biodiversity in Jordan, I suggest the following solutions:

  • Rehabilitation of damaged ecosystems in order to promote biodiversity and solving causes of poverty and unemployment – Poverty is both a cause and a consequence of biodiversity degradation: poor people are forced to put urgent needs before the long-term quality of the biodiversity.
  • Designing water supply models and monitoring water quantity and quality for plant and animal biodiversity. To reduce pressure from the growing urban demand, a long-term water solution will require fundamental changes in national water policy and adoption of a large-scale management by the Jordanian government.
  • Coordinating implementation of the plan between the local communities, government agencies and the private sector. It is important to involve local communities in decision making regarding hunting, water use and grazing.
  • Implementation of comprehensive plan, guidelines and national and international policies for sustainable development of arid areas, preservation of biodiversity, and adoption of strategies to prevent harmful practices such as overgrazing or over extraction of water.
  • Establishment of separated areas for biodiversity conservation, off-limits to grazing and other activities, and the monitoring of biodiversity in those areas.
  • Addressing the problems faced by farmers, such as crop selection. There is currently a lack of information on alternative crops that are tolerant to water stress and water-saving irrigation techniques. Livestock owners need services such as grazing reserves and infrastructure for marketing milk and other products.
  • Land use plans are essential for conservation of biodiversity of Jordan, there is an urgent need to encourage shifting the rural pressure to none fertile land, also new trends should be adopted to minimize reduction in forested land and reforest cleared areas.
  • Establishment of more natural reserves to give Jordanians beautiful places to visit and preserve Jordan’s beauty for future generations. A network of protected areas for ecosystems species and genetic resources preservation must also be established.
  • Introduction of sustainable systems for farming, include disease control and crops that help to regenerate soils. Appropriate support and encouragement to farmers to adopt new policies and new practices, such as water-saving irrigation techniques and plantings of sustainable crops such as date palms or honey production.

Jordan is committed to study its biodiversity to conserve its natural resources and ensure the sustainable use of its resources. It is also hoped that Jordan Biodiversity study will be the basis for cross-cultural cooperation and exchange, resulting in scientific integration between Jordan and the rest of the World. The result of applying there principle across several areas will be a visible recovery and improvement of Jordan’s ecosystem. Additionally, new jobs will be created as part of the conservation efforts.

biodiversity in jordan

A biological survey is necessary to monitor changes in the Jordanian ecosystems.  National guidance is required, as well as national and international funding for these activities. Appropriate development organizations should encourage research in ethno-biology to identify plant and animal species used by local people, which will prevent species from being irretrievably lost.

As human induced environmental change continues, society is facing an increasing array of pressing environmental challenges. Answers to these complex challenges must be informed by coordinated, long-term interdisciplinary research. The LTER sites (Long term ecological research sites) are poised to address a set of new initiatives to be pursued in response to these environmental challenges.

Considering that one third of the land mass surface of the earth is classified as arid land, knowledge of the composition of their bio-communities and of how these communities are affected by landscape sustainability measures will find wider application in landscape sustainability programs and contribute to future global policies. Government and specialized environmental NGO involvement is essential for the success of these measures.

نبات الالوفيرا – النبات المعجزة

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نبات الالوفيرا من النباتات المنتشرة قديماً خلال القرنين الثامن عشر والتاسع عشر ميلادياً،وهو نبات معمر عصاري (أوراقه تحتوي كميات كبيرة من الماء) يمكن أن ينمو إلى طول يصل إلى 4 أقدام، أوراقه قاسيه رمحية لحمية وتنمو لتصل إلى 36 بوصة طول ،أما مادة  الهلام السميكة الموجود في الجزء الداخلي من الورقة فهي المادة الأكثر شيوعاً في الاستخدامات المختلفة والهامة جداً حيث يوجد أكثر من 300 نوع منها واستمرت خصائصها العلاجية لأكثر من خمسة الاف سنة .وقد عاد الباحثين والعلماء تسليط الضوء في الوقت الحالي على هذا النبات لفوائده الكثيرة فعند قطع ورقة الألوفيرا يستخلص منها مادة الهلام (الجيلي السائل) فهذا الهلام يحتوي على أكثر من (75) مادة غذائية مختلفة وعلى (200) مركب فعال و(20) نوع من الأملاح المعدنية و(18) نوع من أكاسيد الألمونيوم و(12) نوع من الفيتامينات.

a commercial aloe vera farm

أما أصل تسمية نبات الالوفيرا فهي تقسم الى جزئين فكلمة ( Alloeh ) أصلها  كلمة عربية ومعناها مادة مرة ولامعة وكلمة ( Vera) فهي كلمة أصلها لاتيني وتعني الحقيقة . والموطن الجغرافي لنبات الالوفيرا الأصلي حسب ( REYNOLDS 1986 ) فهو الجمهورية السودانية كما تجد أصول لهذة النبتة في المكسيك، الولايات المتحدة الامريكية في ولاية فلوريدا، ولاية اريزونا، ولاية تكساس ،برغواي، البيرو، شبه الجزيرة العربية في منطقة الحجاز ومدينة أبها في المملكة العربية السعودية وفي مدينة حضرموت في اليمن ،وجمهورية مصر العربية، جنوب افريقيا، كينيا ،نيجيريا، وغيرها من دول بحر الابيض المتوسط .

بلغت قيمة سوق استخراج الالوة فيرا العالمي حوالي 1,60 مليار دولار أمريكي في عام 2018 ومن المتوقع أن يتوسع بمعدل نمو سنوي مركب بنسبة 7.6 ٪ خلال فترة التوقعات واستحوذ قطاع مستحضرات التجميل السوق عام 2018 بنسبة 41و9% من حصة السوق العالمية ومن المتوقع أن يسجل قطاع المستحضرات الصيدلانية معدل نمو سنوي مركب قدره 7.5 ٪ من عام 2019 إلى عام 2025

aloe vera market

معلومات مهمة عن النفط الاخضر

  • تعد منطقة آسيا والمحيط الهادئ منطقة بارزة وتمثل 30.6 ٪ من حصة السوق العالمية في عام 2018 .
  • تعد الصين والهند من أكبر مصادر الدخل في منطقة آسيا والمحيط الهادئ.
  • الهند هي سوق مستحضرات التجميل الأسرع نموًا في العالم. 

ما الذي جعل الالوفيرا هذه القيمة التسويقية؟

القيمة الغذائية

  1. تحتوي على 75 مركب A،B ،B1 ،B2 ،B3 ،B6 ،B9 ،تحتوي على فيتامين E,C
  2. تحتوي على أنزيمات مساعدة على الهضم وتفكيك الدهنيات والسكريات وترميم الجلد ومنع الالتهابات الجلدية
  3. تحتوي على 20 نوع من الاملاح بينها الكالسيوم والمنغنيزيوم والمنغنيز والزنك والكلور والسيلينيوم والصوديوم والحديد والبوتاسيوم والنحاس وهي ضرورية لتحسين عمل الأنزيمات ومضادات الأكسدة
  4. تحتوي على الكربوهيدرات المعقدة(أسيمانان) الذي يسمح بوصول العناصر الغذائية إلى الخلايا وتغذيتها وتنقيتها من السموم ويقوي جهاز المناعة ويقلل الالتهابات ويعمل على تحسين توزيع الأوكسجين في الجسم
  5. تحتوي على سكريات أحادية: مهمة في تنشيط الجسم وتقوية جهاز المناعة وتنظيم الكولسترو

الصناعات الدوائية والعلاجية / الالوفيرا

تشير معظم  الدراسات والأبحاث الى ان جل صبار الالوفيرا قد يكون فعالاً في علاج الصدفية، قشرة الرأس، والحروق طفيفة ، بالاستخدام الموضعي كعلاج لبعض الحالات الجلدية، وهو مفيد أيضاً في علاج القروح الناجمة عن هربس الأعضاء التناسلية عند  الرجال وهناك أيضا أدلة قوية على أن عصير الصبار(وتسمى أيضا عصارة latex ) و التي تؤخذ عن طريق الفم هي ملين قوي.وفي فترة من الزمن كان  يتم بيع  عصير الصبار في الصيدليات  في كثير من البلدان العربية بدون وصفة طبية كعلاج للإمساك.

الصناعات التجميلية

إن العديد من النباتات والأعشاب الطبية تتميز بفوائد صحية وجمالية كثيرة ويستخدم مستخلص كثير منها في الصناعات التجميلية، وينفرد نبات الصبار  من بين الك النباتات دون غيره بخصائص صحية وتجميلية رهيبة، على وجه الخصوص فيما يتعلق بالبشرة والشعر ، فالهلام المستخلص من نبات الصبار يحتوى على فيتامينات ومعادن وأحماض أمينية أساسية وثانوية ومركبات فعالة أثبتت نتائج فعالة فى تحسين حالة البشرة وصحتها وحالة الشعر وكثافته ولمعانه

الاولوفيرا والحدائق والمنازل والمكاتب

يشكل زراعة صبار الالوفيرا في الحدائق والمنازل والمكاتب تحفة فنية تعطي المكان رونق وراحة نفسية ويتم زراعة صبار الالوفيرا بشكل كبير في نظام  الحدائق الصخرية  والحدائق المختلطة والأماكن العامة لجماله وأوراقه الزاهية وحسب الظروف البيئة المتوفرة . حيث يمكن استخدامه في التصاميم  البستانية والتنسيقات المختلفة  لإضافة لمسة خضراء جميلة.وميزة صبار الالوفيرا المريحة انه  يمكنه العيش في اماكن تحت اشعة الشمس مباشرة او في الظل (تحتاج الى 8 ساعات ضوء مباشر) كما لا تحاج الى كميات كبيرة من مياه الري ويتحمل الجفاف  ولا تحتاج الى تسميد  و/ أو يمكن تسميدها مرة واحدة في السنة حسب نوع التربة.

فوائد المادة الهلامية (جل) وزيت الالوفيرا

حسب الدراسات والابحات المختلفة وعلى مدار سنوات وما تشير اليها حسب الاستخدام في حالات معينة  ومعرفة تأثيرها بشكل موضعي او تناول جل الصبار عن طريق الفم حيث يمكن استخدام في بعض الحالات  ولا يوجد له آثار جانبية مثل :-

  1. مطهر للجروح وتسريع التئامها عند وضع الجل مباشرة على الجروح
  2. مضاد للحكة والحروق
  3. مضاد للالتهابات دون اثار جانبية مثل قرحة الفم
  4. يعمل على تحفيز نمو الخلايا وتكاثرها
  5. تقوية جهاز المناعة عند شربة او خلطه بالماء
  6. احد أنواع الأغذية الملينة مثل مكافحة الإمساك
  7. مرطب طبيعي للبشرة والجسم وتحسين مظهر التجاعيد وملمس البشرة
  8. وفوائد أخرى بالقضاء على البكتيريا والفيروسات وغيرها من الفوائد
  9. مقوي لبصيلات الشعر

هل يمكن ان تكون  الألوفيرا مضرة؟

لكل نبات او منتج زراعي آثاره الايجابية والسلبية إذا ما تم استخدامه بطريقة غبر صحيحة، فبالرغم من  أن استخدام جل  صبار الألوفيرا موضعياً على البشرة يعتبر آمن، فهناك احتمالية  حدوث تهيج في الجلد أو تحسس لبعض انواعه وارد  ، لذا يمنع استخدام هذه النبتة لعلاج الجروح أو الحروق الشديدة او ممن لديهم حساسية  بشكل عام.

كما يجب تجنب تناول او استخدام جل صبار الالوفيرا خاصة عن طريق الفم للنساء الحوامل والمرضعات والاطفال دون سن 12 سنة والاشخاص الذين يعانون من امراض مختلفة  اومزمنة مثل الاضطراب الكلوي، أمراض القلب، البواسير، التهاب القولون التقرحي، الانسداد المعوي، داء السكري والمرض الكلوي المزمن.

وذكرت بعض المراجع العلمية أنه من بين الآثار السلبية المحتملة للألوفيرا: ضعف العضلات، مشاكل الكلى، وجود دم في البول، الإسهال، الغثيان أو آلام في المعدة وانخفاض البوتاسيوم.

أما عن طريقة إستخدا جل الالوفيرا فينصح باستخدامه على فترات متباعدة وشراء المنتجات التجارية من علامة موثوقة ومعروفة لضمان سلامة وجودة المنتج.

طريقة زراعة صبار الالوفيرا

تعتبر الصباريات والعصاريات من أسهل النباتات زراعة نظرا لكثرة الفسيلة (النبتة الصغيرة بجانب النبتة الام) التي تظهر وتتكاثر وبالتالي بمكن أخذ هذة النباتة على ان تحتوي على الاقل اربع اوراق وزراعتها ونخلط جزء من التربة مع جزء من الرمل مع وضع حصى بأسفل الاصيص حتى يساعد في تصفية المياع ولا تصاب النبتة باي امراض او حشرات او  فطريات مثل المن والبق الدقيقي  والبقع الوداء والعثث  وعفن الجذور ويمكن تجنبها كلها بالعمل على ترك التربة تجف فترة مناسبة وفي حال الاصابة الواضحة يتم التخلص من الجزء المصاب والعمل على رعاية النبات بشكل افضل ولا يتم اللجوء الة المبيدات الكيماوية الا للضرورة القصوى لما لها من آثار سلبية على صحة الانسان والحيوان والبيئة.

الخلاصة

يعتبر نبات صبار الالوفيرا من المشاريع الاقتصادية ذات الجدوى الاقتصادية الجيدة والتي يمكن انشاؤها في حديقة المنزل او على الشرفة أو في اي مكان محدود ولا تحتاج الى عناية ورعاية كبيرة عدا عن امكانية بيعها مباشرة لمحبي الصباريات وإهدائها الى الاصدقاء في مناسبات جميلة وتزيين الحديثة او المكتب بها بطريقة جذابة.

المراجع

  • نباتات الزينة وتنسيق الحدائق، الحديقة المنزلية،الدكتور جواد راضي المصري،عمان،الاردن،2008.
  • نباتات الزينة الداخلية وكيفية العناية بها،المهندس بشار لطف،دمشق،بيروت،1992.
  • المرشد الوجيز في أمراض النبات،إصدار الجمعية العربية لوقاية النبات،د.محمود محمد الطاهر ،منظمة الأغذية والزراعة للأمم المتحدة،1990.
  1. https://www.fao.org/family-farming/detail/en/c/1619082/
  2. https://www.aoad.org
  3. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.14676486.1986.tb00958

Things to Know About Recycling of Fluorescent Light Bulbs

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All fluorescent light bulbs contain mercury. In fact, the standard fluorescent bulb has about 20 milligrams of mercury. It is clear that these lamps must be managed properly to protect human health and the environment. The risk of leaving mercury deposits in landfill is high; therefore, recycling seems the most conscientious and environmentally safe recourse. A comprehensive fluorescent light bulb recycling strategy will not only help in environment protection but can also promote new business growth and job opportunities.

broken cfl bulb

An analysis of the lighting industry shows a trend shifting from the usage of incandescent lights bulbs to fluorescent bulbs and LEDs. Incandescent bulbs use more energy, are more costly and are less effective than fluorescent bulbs in the amount of artificial light they produce as fluorescents produce more lumens than incandescents.

Usage of fluorescent light bulbs, however, is not entirely without risk because they contain mercury, a chemical compound that can have debilitating effects on humans upon prolonged exposure. Because of its unique properties, the most effective way to dispose of mercury-bearing wastes is through recycling.

Continued illegal disposal of mercury wastes continues, resulting in unnecessary exposure to people and the planet; however, a grassroot movement to protect the environment has created momentum to generate a national law prohibiting the disposal of fluorescent bulbs in landfills.

en.lighten Initiative and Middle East

The UNEP/GEF en.lighten initiative was launched in September 2009 as a globally coordinated effort to accelerate the transition to efficient lighting and mitigate climate change, The objective of the initiative is to calculate the potential electricity savings, CO2 emission reductions and the economic benefits that could be realized from phasing out inefficient lighting and replacing them with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Around 100 countries were analyzed globally, with 19 hailing from the MENA region.

Countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and Lebanon have announced ban on the sale of all incandescent bulbs by specific target years. Likewise Qatar has already announced plans to phase out use of incandescent bulbs. However, the promotion of CFLs demands a viable strategy to counter broken and disused fluorescent bulbs in order to prevent its harmful effect on the environment and public health.

Recycling Strategy for Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Proper disposal of mercury-contained fluorescent lamps is essential to prevent release of toxic materials into the environment. The manufacturers of fluorescent tubes are responsible for the proper labeling of mercury-containing lamps to alert customers to their hazards.

With the labeling of the symbol “Hg” on each lamp, individuals should recognize these products contain mercury. In United States, fluorescent bulbs and other types of energy-efficient lighting as well as nickel-cadmium batteries, pesticides and thermostats are regulated under the Universal Waste Rule (UWR).

Proper disposal of mercury-contained fluorescent lamps is essential

The UWR allows businesses, government agencies and other generators an opportunity to recycle bulbs and other types of universal waste at the end of life rather than manifesting and disposing of them as a hazardous waste. This can result in significant savings for the business or property owner. Recycling also helps protect our environment from potentially toxic materials.

Many governments and retailers are offering CFL recycling schemes that safely handle the mercury. Private industry has to partner with government to develop a plan to eliminate fluorescent light bulbs from the landfills.

To further encourage recycling, the cost of fluorescent light bulbs recycling should be initially absorbed by the manufacturers, who in turn, may pass the costs to the consumers. The consumer can then return the spent bulbs to their purchase point of origin. This has worked in other recycling sectors, and it can also work with mercury-containing devices such as fluorescent lamps.