Waste Management Implications of 3D Printing

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The rapid deployment of 3D printing is one of the most exciting developments since the appearance of the smart phone. This is technology with some serious potential to change how and where goods are manufactured, transforming supply chains. The New Scientist has gone so far as to herald 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, as ushering in a second industrial revolution. But is anyone thinking about how what this new development means for the waste sector?

Whilst the technology is already being put to some dubious uses, the ability to manufacture pretty much anything wherever and whenever it’s needed is certainly appealing. Interest isn’t confined to those frustrated inventors whose imaginations have been constrained by the tools they can fit in the garden shed; there’s likely to be take-up from businesses, householders – and even space agencies, apparently.

3D-Printer

What is 3D Printing

By building up layer upon layer of material, a 3D printer can produce objects to any pattern, up to the maximum size it can handle. However, the applications to which these objects can be put to may be limited by the physical properties of the materials that will inputted in to 3D printers – the equivalent of the ink in the printers we’re all familiar with. Clearly, you can’t print a toaster if your 3D printer only uses plastic – but an oven knob, or even a wind-powered robot with dozens of moving parts, is no problem.

A quick scan helpfully outlines the different methods 3D printers are able to deploy, which I’ve summarised here. Each appears to require its own TLA (Three Letter Acronym). Perhaps in the future terms such as Stereolithography (SLA), Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and PolyJet photopolymer will become as ubiquitous as DVD and VHS have been in the past. Each of these techniques is compatible with a selection of materials, primarily plastics – but some are able to use metals, ceramics or even play-dough.

Environmental Implications of 3D Printing

Moving significant amounts of manufacturing away from factories (predominately in Asia) to our own door steps will no doubt have profound impacts on the balance of goods and services across the globe. The economic and social implications of the technology have the potential to be significant– as do the environmental implications.

There is potential for greenhouse gas emissions savings from reduced shipping – not just cutting the number of products that make the long journey across the seas from China, but also reducing road freight. Fewer trucks on the motorways could be one of the unexpected effects 3D printing. But what are the waste management issues associated with mass deployment such technologies. And if we are future gazing, is their deployment consistent with the ‘zero waste economy’ envisaged by governments across the Middle East?

For those who haven’t yet thought too hard about what the technology is; think of it like the ‘replicator’ devices as featured in Star Trek. The replicator was a machine capable of creating objects by voice command, from what appeared to be thin air. 3D printing is only a shade less magical.

Waste Management Perspectives

3D printing is something of a double-edged sword when it comes to waste. It creates new recycling problems, but has considerable potential to help prevent waste. It could even be an outlet for recycled plastics. The opportunity for DIY repairs, especially to everyday items that we might otherwise decide were uneconomic to fix, appears enormous.

But with the higher profile that waste management has these days, I feel that we ought to be making 3D printing the first technology to be designed with recycling in mind. The waste management industry is a service industry; and typically it has had to adapt retrospectively to technology changes that it has not been able to influence. After more than a decade, we’re still catching up with the introduction of plastic milk bottles in lieu of glass. But this reactive approach clearly isn’t the best way to achieve a zero waste economy.

3D printing offers numerous challenges and opportunities to the waste management industry. As we, as a society, become more aware of material security, I’d suggest that the best approach would be for the waste management industry to engage positively with the designers and manufacturers of the 3D printing devices, trying to identify opportunities to ensure that the circular economy doesn’t become an afterthought.

The most appealing possibility would be if the machines could recycle waste polymers themselves, and re-use them as feedstock. Could we see a scenario where the machines become the recycling facility, thus greatly reducing the need for even the print medium to be transported? Bringing the nascent 3D printing industry together with experts in waste management could help to make this new technology contribute to rather than challenge our ambitions for a zero waste economy.

Note: The article is being republished with the kind permission of our collaborative partner Isonomia. The original article can be viewed at http://www.isonomia.co.uk/?p=2512

The Spiritual Benefits of Ramadan Fasting

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Our environment is more than trees, water, land, and air. It is a sense of peace, an understanding of our place in our society. It sustains our satisfaction in life and our interest in caring for the life around us. Recognizing the sustaining forces that make up our environment sometimes requires a time of deep introspection.

Few practices in the human repertoire can guide us to deep introspection like the profound practice of fasting in the holy month of Ramadan. For one full month in every year, fasting is required for Muslims all over the world. The day-long fasting process in Ramadan has the ability to modify behaviors and shape life patterns in ways that improve our entire environment. Focusing on an empty stomach inspires incredibly rich perception of the internal forces sustaining us and our environment.

spiritual benefits of ramadan fasting

Fasting as Defined in Islam

“Fasting” is defined in Islam as abstaining from foods, drinks, sexual intercourse, gossip, arguments, physical violence, and all toxic or addicting substances, from before the break of dawn until sunset, every day during the entire month of Ramadan. Islam follows a lunar calendar, with the result that Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic year, revolves around the solar calendar, every year arriving 11 days earlier than the previous year.

My first year of fasting was in the shortest days of winter. Now, fifteen years later, Ramadan has arrived in the longest days of summer. As the lunar months keep rotating around the year, so Muslims all over the world face some months of relatively easier fasting, and some months of strenuous striving to keep their fast.

“Fasting is one half of patience.” — The Prophet Muhammad

Unless converting to Islam at a later age, Muslims begin fasting at the age of puberty. Patience is the first test, arriving with the self-pitying pains of self-deprivation. We learn to endure them patiently, handling hunger because we have no other choice. The early recognition of this cycle by an adolescent Muslim is priceless, an internal guidance system that ideally recycles beneficially every year for a lifetime. With the arrival of Ramadan comes a compelling shift towards equality and social compassion.

We learn on the first day what it feels like to be hungry, but as the days go by, we learn what it really means to live without food. A little self-deprivation inspires great compassion in us for the truly hungry people of the world.

Disintegrating the Barrier between Rich and Poor

The social barrier between rich and poor disintegrates when the rich are suffering hunger pains no different from their poorer neighbors. For an entire month the fasting Muslim is reduced to two meals a day. Perhaps the food on the table will be different for each, but the experience is equally trying.

The dark hour before dawn is not exceptionally conducive to preparing and eating big meals. Likewise, traversing a long hot day with an empty stomach and thick, sticky tongue leaves us breaking our fast with more thirst than hunger. Three cups of cold water and a couple of dates suddenly become amazingly satisfying.

green ramadan

Fasting clearly encourages us to feed the hungry and help the poor, especially in the month of Ramadan, when even if the person, due to medical or other reasons, is unable to fast, the substitute for fasting is to feed a poor person for each day of fasting missed:

“…And upon those who are able (to fast, but only with hardship), a ransom (as substitute) of feeding a poor person (each day). And whoever volunteers extra — it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew.” [Quran 2:184]

God Loves to Strengthen the Weak

Hungry people lose pride fast when they find themselves weak. But God loves to strengthen us when we turn to Him for help. When we find ourselves coping better with the weakness of hunger, we truly feel the loving mercy of God. In these ways, fasting restores the relationship between us and God, strengthening our sense of gratitude. Fasting guides us to authenticity by pulling the rug out from under our false pride and hypocrisies. We used to say we cared about poor, hungry people, but now, after fasting a few long, hot days, we really mean it!

Fasting teaches us moral discipline. We could easily sneak a drink or a bite of something when no one is watching. But the striving for blessings available to us in Ramadan comes from the sincere desire to please God. We feel His nearness so strongly when we are weak with hunger, it is as though a higher state of consciousness is strengthening us, instead of food. God says:

“He abandons his (sexual) desire, food and drink for Me.”
“Fasting is for Me, and I will reward for it accordingly.” [-Allah, as quoted by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW)]

Fasting Recalibrates Our Conscience

With this daily perception of God’s nearness, the balance between right and wrong recalibrates our conscience. Right decisions become easier, even when it means we may have to suffer hardship or inconvenience. Our personalities and characters adapt to this stronger sense of right and wrong. This is the best time for personal correction. The courage that comes with overcoming hardship often inspires us to break bad habits that we were unable to deal with previously.

Ramadan is a time of correcting bad behaviors, because fasting for us means abstaining from them as well as food. Abstaining from food is useless if we do not also reduce bad behaviors.

“If a person does not keep away from falsehood and false conduct, Allah has no need of his fast.”[-The Prophet Muhammad (SAW)]

“Fast and you shall attain good health.” — The Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

Good health is not just physical, although the physical benefits of fasting are well documented. Giving the digestive system a rest has a purgative effect on the body, cleansing our system of toxins. After sleeping, we wake refreshed, undertaking our work with renewed ability, and the digestive system benefits in this same manner.

While Muslims don’t fast specifically for dietary benefit, our spiritual benefit is improved with healthy brain functions as a result of caloric restriction to maintain good physical health. Fasting adds so much healthful benefit, it is difficult to underestimate all the advantages.

Fasting Institutes a New Economy

Suddenly we see how much food we never really needed. Needs become clearly separated from wants, and shines a whole new light on our food budget. Restaurants aren’t typically open in the dark hour before dawn either, so cooking at home becomes more regular in Ramadan.

Sleep typically becomes disrupted, and we find ourselves pushing strongly on our self-discipline to get things done at strange hours of the night or day. Days become more constructive when the hours aren’t being gobbled up by food-centered activities. Whole new ways of life suddenly manifest themselves in the month-long practice of fasting.

iftar-dubai-mosque

Iftar gatherings at mosques are also responsible for wastage of huge amount of food

Time sets new patterns during Ramadan, too. Before the first note of the sunset call to prayer, everyone in the house suddenly materializes at the dinner table. Work schedules, ball games, music lessons, all activities suddenly become subservient to the time of sunset. Entire families find themselves enjoying dinner together for an entire month. When the sun goes down on a house full of Muslims breaking their fast, big families really shine with delight and gratitude.

God’s Favorite Instrument of Peace is the Family

Of course, closer interaction with family members and neighbors can sometimes be stressful. This is another blessing of Ramadan, preparing us for difficulties so that when they occur we have the means to avoid them. The family is God’s favorite instrument of peace. If we didn’t learn to get along with our family members, perhaps there would be no peace on earth anywhere.

Screaming for food works for infants, but it doesn’t go over well at the dinner table, so bad behaviors get curbed among loving family members starting from a fairly young age. Ramadan reinforces this sense of family diplomacy, annually requiring fasters to maintain good manners, even in the face of stressful conditions:

“If someone tries to pick a quarrel with a Muslim who is fasting, he is to control himself and reply, ‘I am fasting’.”[-The Prophet Muhammad (SAW)]

Ramadan’s Reflection in the Pool of Our Earthly Environment

Family, friends, and neighbors all commonly increase their interactions, sharing in the spirit of bonding that Ramadan inspires. Community bonds are strengthened in this great time of sharing. From the first reflection of the new moon in the sparkling pool of our earthly environment, ripples extend from the soul of each person fasting in Ramadan.

From the well of our deep personal introspection, good behaviors bubble up to the surface and ripple outward, overlapping with the gentle ripples of others. Our livelihoods, our neighborhoods, in fact our entire environment, benefits from this beautiful practice, because peace and goodwill achieve a higher meaning and strive for higher goals when sustained by the spiritual discipline of annual fasting.

Balancing Conservation with Urban Growth: Lessons from Qatar’s Al Reem Biosphere Reserve

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Qatar’s Al Reem Biosphere Reserve is a protected, inhabited area in the country’s northwestern region. It’s accessible from major roadways and less than 50 miles from Doha, making it an attractive destination for people who want to enjoy nature’s beauty without planning major excursions. This project has many lessons to teach eco-minded individuals.

Understanding the various project phases can inform you of what to consider when measuring success and outlining priorities.

biosphere reserve qatar

Collaboration is Key for Success

Planners officially established the Al Reem Biosphere Reserve in 2005. Since the land encompasses three jurisdictions, collaboration between multiple parties was essential during all phases. UNESCO designated it as a biosphere in 2007, and it was the only such protected area in Qatar then. Since this project comprises approximately 10% of Qatar’s total land area, it requires significant and ongoing cooperation.

Sustainability professionals, development companies and other commercial entities must meet conservation goals by operating in the best interests of endangered and threatened animals. They can do so by setting parameters for permitted activities. Although people can visit the Biosphere Reserve for falconry, it is only an option during a specific period and for a limited number of licensed hunters.

Whether someone is a visitor or tour operator, people must respect the land while abiding by stipulated rules. A decade after UNESCO officials gave Al Reem its designation, officials from that organization collaborated with government authorities to offer an environmental awareness program.

One phase of the two-part initiative encouraged the public to go on free educational tours. The other enabled schoolchildren to travel to the Reserve for scientific activities. A competition also resulted in people winning awards for packing lunches with the least amount of plastic.

These accessible, themed efforts are crucial for helping people understand how to enjoy and protect the Biosphere Reserve with conscious actions and an enthusiasm for learning. Although professionals perform essential work in safeguarded areas such as this one, everyone can contribute.

Planners Need a Detailed Understanding of the Topography

Those involved in nature reserves or similar projects must evaluate the most effective ways to preserve the land for existing and future plants, flowers and animals while carefully considering when to take a hands-off approach versus installing human-made innovations to provide resilience against natural occurrences.

Stretching over more than 445 square miles, the Biosphere Reserve has many topographical differences depending on the area you examine. For example, the Zekreet Peninsula features steeper elevations than other parts of the land, and some coastal areas feature salty mud flats and swamps. Additionally, people can find numerous rocky plains and elevations throughout the inland sections.

Additionally, people cleared some of the flattest parts of the Reserve to make it suitable for farming. These important economic activities support the food chain, allowing agricultural professionals to grow dates, cereal grains, vegetables and fruits. Animals like goats and camels use other flatlands as grazing areas. Whether the animals are domesticated or wild, authorities control the particulars. For example, camels can only graze while in enclosures.

Weather, the activities of humans and other animals, and additional relevant factors can necessitate innovations like soil nails to enhance the ground’s stability by artificially increasing its cohesion. Inserting these accessories into predrilled holes redistributes the soil’s weight and relieves pressure on unstable areas.

The Biosphere Reserve’s varying topography teaches parties interested in biodiversity, land preservation and other relevant subjects to scrutinize specific environmental factors and incorporate them into subsequent decision-making processes.

Responsible Parties Must Manage Growth

Several factors have been drivers of Qatar’s previous economic growth and may continue to support it in the coming years. For example, the country’s leaders have invested in liquefied natural gas infrastructure and supported numerous projects that allow the product’s export. Additionally, Qatar was the FIFA World Cup host in 2022, resulting in the subsequent creation of a multimillion-dollar legacy fund to facilitate sustainable development.

The creation of the Al Reem Biosphere Reserve emphasized the country’s commitment to protecting wildlife and the land. However, authorities must capitalize on and maintain that momentum by exploring practical ways to pursue smart growth. Successful implementation allows urban planners and other stakeholders to maximize economic efficiency while continuing to uphold environmental goals.

The United States offers numerous examples of those ideals in action. For example, in Gonzales, Louisiana, authorities focused on electrifying the transportation network by holding a workshop to nurture community involvement and stakeholder engagement in efforts to minimize the city’s carbon footprint. They also revealed a climate resilience plan to halve emissions by 2050. This example shows how committed parties can allow anticipated growth while continuing to minimize negative impacts.

alreem biosphere reserve

Some growth-management activities can happen on a smaller scale, such as through engagements with parties who own businesses near the Al Reem Biosphere Reserve. Perhaps a developer plans to open a hotel on its borders. It would likely attract more visitors wanting to explore the protected area, which isn’t a bad thing if they behave responsibly. Hospitality employees could be instrumental in reinforcing the cultural norms to make that happen. Similarly, conversations should occur with agricultural professionals who want to expand their farming areas.

Awareness and Proactiveness Support Sustainability Gains

Many lessons associated with the Al Reem Biosphere Reserve likely sound familiar if you have gotten involved in local environmental projects requiring input from multiple parties. That’s because they still apply for less extensive projects that center on protecting the planet and encouraging the public to do their part.

Decision-makers must also remain aware of the interconnectedness of local ecosystems and how human-driven activities affect them. As the above examples show, protecting at-risk wildlife does not necessarily mean banning people from their habitats. Humans can live in harmony with animals. However, authorities may need to set and frequently evaluate guidelines to maintain a realistic and mutually beneficial balance.

مقال عن نبات الزعتر

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عرف القدماء قائمة واسعة من النباتات الطبية والعطرية ومنها الزعتر والتي استخدموها في علاج كثير من الامراض وتعتبر من المحاصيل غير التقليدية  التي يحتاجها الانسان أو تدخل في الممارسات الغذائية له بشكل أو بآخر ، وتستخدم هذه النباتات إما طازجة  أو مجففة  أو في إستخلاص الزيوت. فمنها موجود بشكل طبيعي ومنها ما يزرع في المزارع والحدائق المنزلية ، وقد ظهر  إهتمام عالمي واسع بزراعة الزعتر لاستخدامه أو أجزاء منه للحصول على زيوته العطرية التي تدخل في تركيب العديد من المركبات الصناعية كبديل لعدد من المستحضرات الكيماوية المنتشرة .

thyme in a garden

وفي الحضارات القديمة انتشر التداوي بالاعشاب  في الصين والهند وفيتنام والاغريق أما في العصور العربية فقد عرفت بلاد ما بين النهرين كثير من النباتات الطبية والعطرية ومنها الزعتر ونشطت حركة العلم والترجمة  لكثير من الكتب العلمية المتخصصة في هذا المجال بعد استقرار  الدولة الاسلامية ومن اهم العلماء الذي تم الترجمة لهم  جابر بن حيان وابو بكر الرازي وابن سينا وابن البيطار وغيرهم . يذكر في بعض المراجع أن المصريون القدماء استخدموا الزعتر في التحنيط. واستخدمه اليونانيون القدماء في الحمامات وأحرقوه كـبخور في معابدهم، اعتقادًا أنه مصدر الشجاعة.

وتعتبر  المملكة الاردنية الهاشمية من الدول الغنية بهذه النباتات وتحتوي اكثرمن 500 صنف من النباتات الطبية البرية تتبع 33 جنسا 99و عائلة تتوزع في جميع انحاء المملكة منها اليانسون والكراوية والقرفة والشمار والزعتر والنعناع والميرمية والخزامى الحلوة والبابونج وحصى البان والكمون ولكن بعض هذه الاصناف بدأت تنقرض بسب الزحف العمراني  والرعي الجائر والتغير المناخي.

الزعتر نبات شجيري معمّر ،يُذكر أن موطنه الأصلي حوض البحر الأبيض المتوسط وهو دائم الخضرة وأوراقه صغيرة لونها رمادي مخضر أو فضي , ويعيش من 5-6 سنوات. كثير الفروع يكسو الأرض ويصل علوه إلى حوالي 12 سم قائم والسيقان خشبية الأضلاع رمادية مغطاة بالأوبار لونها بني والأوراق صغيرة بسيطة معكوسة رمحية الشكل توجد الأزهار في نورات عنقودية أما زرقاء أو وردية ويبلغ ارتفاع النبات حوالي 50سم وتحمل ثمار كبسولية صغيرة الحجم بها بذور صغيرة عديدة, يوجد الزيت الطيار في الغدد الزيتية المنتشرة علي السطح السفلي للأوراق ، له  رائحة عطرية قوية وطعمه حار مر قليلاً. منه أهم  نوعان هما البري والفارسي

وتم استخدام الزيوت العطرية في الحضارات القديمة للعلاج من الأمراض، وكان لعلماء المسلمين الفضل في اختراع جهاز التقطير، والتوسّع في استخراج الزيوت الطبيعيّة، ومعرفة خصائصها وصفات التداوي بها، وتم نقلها في القوافل العربية مع الحرير والتوابل والسكّر. وجاءت مراكز البحث العلمي اليوم لتؤكّد أهميّة الزيوت المستخلصه منه في صناعة الدواء، ومواد التجميل، ومعاجين الأسنان، والصابون، والمواد المطهّرة، ومضادات الجراثيم ، اكتشف باحثون أميركيون ان زيت الزعتر هو من بين 6 زيوت أساسية أثبتت قدرتها على التخلص من الالتهابات،كما يعتبر الزعتر من اكثر المواد الطبية والعطرية اذا ما كان الوحيد الذي له عدة استخدامات طازجة او جافة او مصنعة او تدخل في الغذاء للانسان فهو يحتوي على مركبات الزيت الهامة ( الثيمول , الكاربكرول) .

ومن اهم ميزات نبات الزعتر احتياجاتة المائية القليلة مقارنة بمردوده العالي ، ويمكن تسويق المنتج مباشره  او تجفبفه وتصنيعه ،ولا يحتاج إلى معدات معقدة أو استثمارات مكلفة .والظروف المناخية ملائمة جدا لزراعة نبات الزعتر في كثير من الدول خاصة دول المشرق العربي (الاردن،سوريا،لبنان،العراق وفلسطين) .

وفوائده الغذائية كثيرة فهو يحتوي على كربوهيدرات والياف وانواع متخلفة من الفيتامينات (A,C,D) والمعادن مثل الحديد والكالسيوم والفسفور ،اما فوائده الطبية فيستخدم في علاج الجهاز التنفسي مثل السعال الديكي والالتهابات الشعبية والربو ومسكن للألم ومطهر ومنشطة للدورة الدموية. وينشط الوظائف المضادة للتسمم, ويسهل إفراز العرق, ويدر البول. ويحتوى على مواد مقوية للعضلات ، تمنع تصلب الشرايين، يعالج التهابات المسالك البولية والمثانة والمغص الكلوي ويخفض الكوليسترول.

أما كفاتح للشهية فيعمل على تنبيه المعدة وطرد الغازات ويساعد على الهضم وامتصاص المواد الغذائية وطرد الفطريات من المعدة والأمعاء فهو يحتوى على مادة الثيمول التي تعمل على قتل الميكروبات وتطرد الطفيليات من المعدة ،ومادة الكارفكرول المسكنة والمطهرة وطاردة للبلغم ومضادة للنزيف والاسهال. بالاضافة الى أنه مضاد للأكسدة ومنبه للذاكرة حيث يؤكد السلف السابق على أهمية تناول الزعتر كسندويش مع زيت الزيتون صباحا وقبل الذهاب إلى المدرسة للاعتقاد بأن الزعتر منبه للذاكرة ويساعد الطالب على سرعة استرجاع المعلومات المختزنة وسهولة الاستيعاب.

وللزعتر فوائد اجتماعية واقتصادية كثيرة  مصدر للدخل وتشيغل الايدي العاملة من الجنسين عدا عن فوائدة البيئة كمنظر جمالي وطارد لبعض الحشرات مثل الناموس والبعوض خاصة في المنازل فيخفف عددها ويحد من استخدام المبيدات الكيماوية الضارة بصحة الانسان وتاثيرها السلبي

Waste Management in Gaza Strip

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Solid waste management in Gaza Strip is a matter of grave concern. With population of approximately 1.75 million, waste management is one of the most serious challenges confronting the local authorities because of high volumes of solid waste generation and economic blockade by Israel. The daily solid waste generation across Gaza is more than 1300 tons which is characterized by per capita waste generation of 0.35 to 1.0 kg.

Scarcity of waste disposal sites coupled with huge increase in waste generation is leading to serious environmental and human health impacts on the population. The severity of the crisis is a direct consequence of continuing blockade by Israeli Occupation Forces and lack of financial assistance from international donor.

Israeli Occupation Forces deliberately destroyed most of the sewage infrastructure in the Gaza Strip, during 2008-2009 Gaza War inflicting heavy damage to sewage pipes, water tanks, wastewater treatment plants etc. Infact, Israeli forces, time and again, target Gaza's infrastructure and inflict heavy damage during repeated incursions in the Gaza Strip. 

Landfills in Gaza

There are three landfills in Gaza Strip – one each in southern and central part of Gaza and one in Gaza governorate. In addition, there are numerous unregulated dumpsites scattered across rural and urban areas which are not fenced, lined or monitored. Domestic, industrial and medical wastes are often dumped near cities and villages or burned and disposed of in unregulated disposal sites which cause soil, air and water pollution, leading to health hazards and ecological damage. The physical damage caused to Gaza’s infrastructure by repeated Israeli aggression has been a major deterred in putting forward a workable solid waste management strategy in the Strip.

Sewage Disposal Problems

The sewage disposal problem is assuming alarming proportions. The Gaza Strip’s sewage service networks cover most areas, except for Khan Yunis and its eastern villages where only 40% of the governorate is covered. There are only three sewage water treatment stations in Gaza Strip – in Beit Lahia, Gaza city and Rafah – which are unable to cope with the increasing population growth rate.

The total quantity of produced sewage water is estimated at 45 million m3 per annum, in addition to 3000 cubic meters of raw sewage water discharged from Gaza Strip directly into the sea every day. Sewage water discharge points are concentrated on the beaches of Gaza city, Al Shate' refugee camp and Deir El Balah.

Raw Sewage on a Gaza beach

The continuous discharge of highly contaminated sewage water from Gaza Strip in the Mediterranean shores is causing considerable damage to marine life in the area. The beaches of Gaza city are highly polluted by raw sewage. In addition, groundwater composition in Gaza Strip is marked by high salinity and nitrate content which may be attributed to unregulated disposal of solid and liquid wastes from domestic, industrial and agricultural sources.

Recently, the ongoing electricity and fuel shortage caused sewage from Gaza City wastewater treatment plant to overflow into residential areas causing a grave humanitarian and environmental crisis. Several more sewage stations across the Gaza Strip are on the verge of overflowing which could be disastrous from the entire region. The prevalent waste management scenario demands immediate intervention of international donors, environmental agencies and regional governments in order to prevent the situation from assuming catastrophic proportions.

An Introduction to Materials Recovery Facility

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A Material Recovery Facility (MRF) is a building to receive, sort, process and store recyclable materials to be shipped and marketed to end-users. A materials recovery facility accepts materials, whether source separated or mixed, and separates, processes and stores them for later use as raw materials for remanufacturing and reprocessing.

material recovery facility

The main function of the MRF is to maximize the quantity of recyclables processed, while producing materials that will generate the highest possible revenues in the market. MRFs can also function to process wastes into a feedstock for biological conversion or into a fuel source for the production of energy.

MRFs serve as an intermediate processing step between the collection of recyclable materials from waste generators and the sale of recyclable materials to markets for use in making new products. There are basically four components of a MRF facility: sorting, processing, storage, and load-out.

Any facility design plan should accommodate all these activities which promote efficient and effective operation of a recycling program. MRFs may be publicly owned and operated, publicly owned and privately operated, or privately owned and operated.

There are basically two types of MRFs: dirty and clean. A “dirty” MRF receives mixed waste material that requires labor intense sorting activities to separate recyclables from the mixed waste. A “clean” MRF is a facility that accepts source separated or commingled recyclable materials. A “clean” MRF reduces the potential for material contamination.

Small MRFs (less than 10 tons per day)

Each MRF in operation vary in size and configuration. Most counties, cities and non-profit organizations that operate MRFs are small; less than 10 tons recyclables handled daily and less than 15,000 square feet of building space. Total capital costs to construct the facility could be anywhere between $500,000 and $1,000,000.

The difference in cost is attributed to building materials used, site purchase and preparation, entrance doors and size. Many of these facilities are not highly automated. Manual labor is used instead of sorting equipment. The type of processing equipment is basic, such as a vertical or horizontal baler, forklift, glass crusher, can blower, etc.

Large MRFs (larger than 500 tons per day)

Large facilities operate more than 100 tons per day, are fully operated, often located in very large cities, and often owned and operated by the private sector. Such MRFs are equipped with highly automated equipment in state of the art facilities and may need several millions of dollar to build.

MRF Equipment

A major cost to consider in planning for a MRF, in addition to land, construction and permitting costs, is the purchasing of equipment to process the recyclables. The equipment needed will depend somewhat on how the material is brought to the facility. If any material is commingled, sorting lines may be needed. However, if all material is source separated, less sophisticated methods for removing contaminants could be used.

The following is a list of the equipment that would be needed to operate a MRF.

​Pre-processed Material Handling Equipment

  • Conveyors
  • Containers

Separating Equipment

  • Magnetic Separators and Screens

Size Reduction Equipment

  • Can Densifier
  • Can Flattener
  • Glass Crusher
  • Plastics Granulator
  • Plastics Perforator
  • Baler

Processed Material Handling Equipment

  • Forklift
  • Skid Steer Loader

Environmental Equipment

  • Dust Collection System
  • Noise Suppression Devices
  • Odor Control System
  • Heating, Ventilating, & Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Other Equipment

  • Fixed Storage Bin
  • Floor Scale for Pallet or Bin Loads
  • Truck Scale
  • Belt Scale

​Beeah MRF in Sharjah

Bee’ah’s Material Recovery Facility in Sharjah

Bee’ah’s Material Recovery Facility is the largest in the Middle East and ranks the third largest in the world. This specialized facility sorts and separates recyclable materials from municipal solid waste, through mechanical and manual processes.

With an annual capacity of 500,000 tonnes, the MRF is currently processing 900 tonnes of general waste, of which an estimated 60% can be recycled and thus diverted from the landfill.

One of the highest contributors has been plastic – including PET and mixed plastic, with a 700% increase, paper and cardboard second at 366%, followed by a 135% increase in aluminum recycling.

خمس إجراءات صديقة للبيئة لتعزيز ثقافة الشركة المستدامة

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ازداد الوعي لدى الناس بتأثير الاحتباس الحراري، وهم يسعون بجهدٍ عالٍ لإيجاد وسائل للحفاظ على البيئة، حتى أن الشركات في مختلف القطاعات تساهم بدور كبير في هذا التوجه من خلال تبني ممارسات وإجراءات صديقة للبيئة. إن لم تقم شركتك حتى الان بتبني أي إجراء أو استراتيجية لتصبح صديقة للبيئة، فإن الوقت قد حان للقيام بهذه الخطوة.

eco-friendly business

هنالك العديد من المنافع التي يمكنك ان تحصل عليها كشركة بما فيه ما يلي:

  1. سيكون لك دور في إنقاذ البيئة.
  2. تحسين صورة الشركة والعلامة التجارية الخاصة بك لأن العملاء/الزبائن يدعمون دائماً الشركات التي تقف وراء قضية نبيلة.
  3. استقطاب الموظفين الملائمين لأنهم أيضاً يهتمون باختيار الشركات التي تهتم بالبيئة.
  4. توفير التكاليف حيث إن معظم ما يكون صديقاً للبيئة يكون موفراً للمال أيضاَ.

بكل هذه المنافع التي ستحصل عليها من خلال تحولك لصيق للبيئة، سوف تشعر بالحماس والالهام بصورة أكبر لقيامك باتخاذ الخطوة نحو هذا الاتجاه، وتالياً سنذكر بعض الطرق عداً لا حصراً لجعل شركتك صديقة للبيئة وتعزيز ثقافة الاستدامة فيها:

1. كن حذراً باستخدام وسائل التدفئة والتبريد والاضاءة

حيث أن التدفئة والاضاءة تعتبران من العناصر الأساسية في مكان العمل، لأن الموظفين بطبيعة الحال يحتاجون لإضاءة مناسبة وأيضاً حرارة مناسبة للعمل بفعالية أكثر. مثلاً لتوفير الطاقة، فإنه من الأفضل استبدال وسائل الإضاءة التقليدية بمصابيح توفير الطاقة (LED) للعمل براحة وكفاءة. وأيضاً فإنه بالإمكان تحديد مستويات معتدلة للحرارة او التبريد، حتى لا تحتاج الأنظمة أي جهد إضافي للوصول لدرجات الحرارة المطلوبة. وبإمكان الشركة أيضاً أن تقوم بعزل المكاتب للحفاظ على درجة الحرارة لفترات أطول.

2. استخدام الألواح الشمسية

إن تركيب الألواح الشمسية سيوفر عليك المال على المدى البعيد، حيث ستنخفض قيمة فاتورة الكهرباء بشكل ملحوظ. بل سوف يجعل الشركة تعمل باستقلالية عن شبكة الكهرباء إذا انتجت كمية طاقة كافية، بالإضافة أنها ستمكنك من المساهمة بهذه الشبكة وستمكنك من الحصول على خصومات إذا انتجت طاقة أكثر من حاجتك.

renewable energy in UAE

قد تكون التكلفة الأولية مرتفعة نوعاً ما، ولكن اختيارك الصحيح لتركيب الألواح من شركة موثوقة فستحصل على عائد استثماري عالي، وايضاً – ولأن الشمس هي مصدر الطاقة – فإنها ستقلل الحاجة لحرق الفحم الذي يسهم في ظاهرة الاحتباس الحراري بشكل كبير ليقوم بإنتاج الطاقة.

3. الاستغناء عن الورق

من أهم الوسائل لتقليل البصمة الكربونية هو الاستغناء عن الورق، حيث إن هذا الاجراء يقلل الحاجة لاستخدام الأشجار في صناعة الورق، كذلك يقوم بتقليل الطاقة الكهربائية – المستخدمة في صناعة الورق – والتي تحتاج لحرق الفحم الذي ينتج غازات ضارة.

لتحقيق نموذجاً لنمو مستدام للأعمال، فإن استخدام وسائل التغليف المعاد تدويره حسب الطلب يمكنه أن يساعدك بذلك، إن كان مصمماً حسب طلبك لأنه يستخدم مواد خام تماماً، ويساعد التغليف المعاد تدويره على تقليل التلوث البيئي وتخفيض كميات النفايات التي تدفن في مكبات النفايات، وكذلك فإنه يقلل الاعتماد على الوقود الاحفوري. كل هذه الأسباب تجعل من التغليف المعاد تدويره حسب الطلب وسيلة فعالة وممتازة لتحقيق نموذجاً لنمو مستدام للأعمال.

لربما يكون الاستغناء عن الورق تحدياً صعباً، لكن إبداً بهذا الاجراء للحفاظ على البيئة، على سبيل المثال: فإنه بإمكانك استخدام المستندات الالكترونية، وإستخدام البريد الالكتروني بدلا من الرسائل الورقية والمطبوعات.

4. تشجيع مشاركة السيارات

قم بتحفيز موظفيك على مشاركة السيارات الخاصة بهم لتعزيز جهودهم وتوجههم نحو بيئة خضراء، شجعهم على مشاركة السيارات أو السير على الاقدام أو حتى استخدام الدراجات الهوائية للقدوم والذهاب للعمل، بما يساهم بشكل فعال بالتقليل من تلوث البيئة، وقم بتقديم مكافئات لتشجعهم على ذلك.

5. تعزيز ثقافة إعادة التدوير

قم بوضع صناديق إعادة التدوير في أماكن العمل المختلفة ليقوم الموظفين باستخدامها، وذكرهم بذلك دائماً. إن الأوان لم يفت بعد لتحول شركتك لشركة صديقة للبيئة، إبدا الان وساهم في الحفاظ على البيئة، واستمتع بجميع المزايا التي يقدمها لك هذا التحول.

ترجمة: ماجدة هلسه

أردنية متعددة الإهتمامات، لديها من الخبرة ما يقارب السبعة وعشرون عاماً في مجال المالية والإدارة في المؤسسات المحلية والدولية، وتعمل ماجدة حالياً مع التعاون الدولي الالماني كموظفة مالية. ومع ذلك كله وعلى الصعيد التطوعي، فإن لديها شغفاً كبيراً بالترجمة في كافة المواضيع والمجالات، وقد بُني هذا الشغف بالخبرة الشخصية والعملية على مدى هذه السنين.

Note: The English version of the article is available at this link.

Why Sustainable Weight Loss Matters

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In a world that’s always running on caffeine and shortcuts, weight loss gets sold like some magic hack. Lol. “Just follow this trendy diet, pop that miracle pill, or push yourself through extreme workouts, and boom! You’ll wake up looking like a fitness influencer.”

But let’s be real, that never happens. Instead, you end up exhausted, frustrated, and right back where you started, maybe even worse off. And here’s the part no one talks about: these so-called “solutions” aren’t just bad for you, they’re bad for the planet too.

weight loss

Think about it, fad diets push unsustainable food trends, weight-loss products come wrapped in layers of plastic, and gym culture often promotes overconsumption, from energy-guzzling machines to single-use protein shake bottles.

The way we chase health is often harming the very world we live in.

That’s why sustainable weight loss just makes sense. It’s not about crash diets or punishing yourself with workouts you hate. It’s about building habits that actually last. It’s about eating well, moving in ways that feel good, and making choices that are kind to both your body and the environment. Because honestly, what’s the point of being fit if the world around us is falling apart?

Understanding Sustainable Weight Loss

Sustainable weight loss is about creating habits that actually stick. Instead of chasing temporary results, it focuses on long-term health, balancing regular movement, nutritious eating, and mental well-being. But what exactly makes it different from fad diets?

Why Sustainable Weight Loss Works?

1. It’s Science-Backed – Unlike trendy diets that cut calories to extremes, sustainable weight loss follows a gradual approach. Studies show that slow, consistent weight loss (about 0.5 to 1 kg per week) is more likely to stay off long-term.

2. No More Yo-Yo Dieting – Quick fixes often lead to weight regain. A balanced lifestyle helps maintain results without the cycle of losing and gaining weight repeatedly.

3. Focuses on Overall Well-Being – It’s not just about the number on the scale. Sustainable weight loss improves energy levels, mood, sleep, and mental health.

4. Encourages Mindful Eating – Instead of restrictive rules, it promotes portion control, intuitive eating, and a healthy relationship with food.

5. Adaptable to Your Life – No need for expensive meal plans or extreme workouts. Whether it’s home cooking, daily walks, or fun fitness activities, you can tailor it to your routine.

The Bigger Picture: How It Helps the Planet

Sustainable weight loss isn’t just good for you—it’s good for the environment. The choices we make about food, exercise, and lifestyle directly impact the world around us.

  • Eco-Friendly Eating – Processed foods and mass-produced meats contribute to environmental damage. Eating whole, locally sourced foods reduces carbon footprint and supports sustainable agriculture.
  • Less Waste, More Movement – Biking, walking, or working out at home reduces reliance on fuel-heavy transportation and waste from unnecessary supplements or single-use products.
  • Minimalist Mindset – Instead of following consumer-driven diet trends (endless supplements, diet sodas, disposable meal kits), sustainable weight loss embraces simplicity and conscious consumption.

At the end of the day, sustainable weight loss isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good and doing good. Taking care of yourself shouldn’t come at the expense of the planet, and with small, consistent steps, you can make choices that benefit both.

tests for vegans

Medically Assisted Weightloss as a Sustainable and Effective Approach

Losing weight is about doing it safely and sustainably. Here’s why medically assisted weightloss makes all the difference:

Expert Guidance for Lasting Results

  • Doctors, dietitians, and personal trainers create personalized weight loss plans based on individual health needs.
  • Medical supervision helps identify underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or metabolic disorders that could hinder progress.
  • Professional guidance prevents extreme dieting and unhealthy weight loss methods.

Science-Backed, Sustainable Approach

  • Quick-fix diets often lead to yo-yo weight gain, while medically assisted programs focus on long-term habits.
  • Sustainable plans prioritize balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and mindful eating rather than restrictive diets.
  • A structured approach ensures gradual weight loss, which is easier to maintain.

A Healthier You and a Healthier Planet

  • Medically guided weight loss encourages nutrient-dense, whole foods, reducing reliance on processed and packaged items.
  • Promotes eco-friendly habits like meal prepping, reducing food waste, and incorporating outdoor workouts.
  • Fosters a holistic mindset, improving both physical health and mental well-being.

Elevate Now: Smarter, Sustainable Weight Loss

GLP-1 Medications: Science-Backed Weight Loss

  • FDA-approved weight loss drugs that control appetite, boost metabolism, and aid fat loss.
  • Keep you full longer, curb cravings, and regulate blood sugar.

Personalized & Expert-Guided Plans

  • Tailored fitness and nutrition for sustainable results.
  • Medical and fitness experts guide your journey.
  • Community support to keep you motivated.

Long-Term Health, Not Quick Fixes

  • A medical + holistic approach for lasting success.
  • Focus on healthy habits and sustainable progress.

Bottom Line

It is important to understand that sustainable weight loss is about more than just reaching a number on the scale.

It’s a real commitment to long-term health and well-being. By making informed choices, following science-backed strategies, and embracing a balanced lifestyle, you can achieve results that last.

How Cleanliness is Next to Greenliness

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There are usually many objectives of cleaning a home or office and the things in it. One of them is to achieve a certain level comfort and freshness while the other is to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the space around. However, when it comes to choosing the right cleaning products and technologies, it is important and beneficial to go the eco-friendly way.

Many manufacturers, in a bid to reduce their carbon footprint, are striving to come up with cleaning products that are made from environmentally-friendly ingredients. Such products are not only safer or less toxic to use, but also smell good and provide sustainable cleaning solutions too. So, when shopping for cleaning products and tools or hiring a cleaner, green solutions should be your number one priority. Read on to know how cleanliness is next to godliness and so it is to greenliness.

Identifying the right cleaning solutions

If you are an environmentally conscious individual, you will want to do research to find out which cleaning products are green and non-toxic and which chemical-based ones to avoid. Whether the products you want to buy is for kitchen surfaces, laundry, fabrics, drain, appliances or even for body cleaning, there are certain ingredients you need to watch out for.

Most chemically-formulated cleaners may contain carcinogens, endocrine disruptors and neurotoxins that can cause cancer, disrupt brain activity, lead to ADHD and more. Aerosols are, in particular, highly toxic to the environment and to the body too. Hence, should be avoided like a plague. Much as you might want a shinier and fresh smelling, you shouldn’t do so at the expense of your health and comfort.

Some cleaning products and ingredients to check out and avoid include the following:

  • Ammonia
  • Ethylene glycol
  • Sodium hypochlorite
  • Monobutyl acetate
  • Chlorine
  • Sodium hydroxide

Guide to eco-friendly cleaning

Eco-friendly cleaning is all about combining the right cleaning products, tools and techniques. But the products form the backbone of the entire process. When choosing green products to use in cleaning, always consider the ones made from all-natural plant ingredients. Such products might not have the fancy fragrances, but they are friendly to the environment and offer better cleaning and sanitation solutions.

Key ingredients to look for in green cleaning products include, but not limited to, the following:

  • Vinegar
  • Peroxide
  • Baking soda
  • Essential oils
  • Lemons

Green-inspired cleaners are free of chemicals, synthetic ingredients, foaming agents and preservatives. When such plain natural solutions are paired with proper cleaning techniques, they ensure a cleaner, germ-free and comfortable environment. That’s the direction most household and commercial cleaning companies are headed to.

A company like Cleaner Cleaner Ltd., has its services centered on staff and equipment, which are highly important in achieving fully-guaranteed spotless results. With its focus being regular cleaning, the company doesn’t have to use or employ harsh chemicals to achieve a cleaner surface or space.

Also Read: Sustainable Carpet Cleaning for Healthier Indoor Spaces

Tools and techniques for green cleaning practice

The market is filled with a range of cleaning tools, equipment and techniques that can offer effective and eco-friendly cleaning solutions. For instance, there’s a machine that can ionize regular water into a disinfectant that can clean just about any surface. Other green tools you can make use of when cleaning at home are backpack vacuums and treated dusty clothes. These options are not just safer and easy-to-use but are cost-friendly too.

As you can see, there are countless environmentally-friendly cleaning options you can utilize in cleaning and sanitizing your office. The most important thing when shopping for the cleaning products is to check the ingredients and ensure no harmful ingredients or additives have been used in making them.

شهر رمضان والتحول نحو الأستدامة

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شهر رمضان محطة للتزود بالوقود ومساحة لتغيير نمط الأستهلاك والعيش ببساطة على هذا الكوكب.  أن سبب الأزمة البيئية وأزمة الماء والطاقة والغذاء هو فشل الإنسان في مُهمة الخلافة وادراك دوره الحضاري كشاهد ومستخلف. التحول نحو الأستدامة يتطلب تغيير أنماط الأنتاج والأستهلاك للتصدي للفقر والتغير المناخي وهذا يستلزم التحول الكلي في نمط التنمية والعيش و تسخير المعرفة المحلية و الإبتكار والقيم والأخلاق وتطير  نماذج محلية للتنمية الطيبة  من خلال الحراك الأخضر أو الجهاد، و الإبتكار الأخضر أو الاجتهاد، و أسلوب الحياة الأخضر أو الزُهد كما هو موضح أدناه.

sustainability-islam

الحراك الأخضر يعني النضال ضد الإختلالات و الظلم و الفساد التي تُخِل بالحياة وبالفطرة والطبيعة. يجب على المجتمع المسلم أن يُظهِر الأسلوب الأمثل و المتوازن للحياة كأمة وسط بعيدا عن الأفراط والتفريط لقوله تعالى “وكلوا وأشربوا ولا تسرفوا”. إن الدور الرئيسي للأمة الوسط  هوتقديم وتجسيد نماذج مستدامة للحياة عبر الكلمة الطيبة والبلد الطيب والتنمية الطيبة. والسؤال هو الى اي مدى نستمد من رمضان هذه الطاقة المتجددة للتحول في الوعي والأدراك والعيش والتعاطف والتراحم والبر.

شهر رمضان يمثل وسيلة للوصول والأرتقاء الى درجة  الإحسان  والذي يعبر عن حالة الجمال الداخلي الذي ينعكس إلى الخارج، و يحوِّل كل نشاط إنساني إلى فن، و يحوِّل كل فن إلى ذكر لله تعالى. يتّصل مفهوم الجمال إتصالا حميما بالله تعالى، و يمكن أن يتجلى الإحسان من خلال العطاء للمحتاجين والرحمة للعالمين بل ويتعدى ذلك الى التصالح مع المحيط الخارج وتقدير قيمة الجمال  من هندسة العمارة و الحدائق و الخط العربي.

ramadan-environmental-spiritual-benefits

يُعتبر الحراك الأخضر في جوهره قوة إيجابية هادفة لضمان التوازن و الفطرة و حماية مجتمع الحياة و لضمان الطيبة و العدالة ونصرة الحق والمظلوم والضعيف. فنحن البشر عندما نسبب تهديد لأي كائن حي  فنحن في الواقع نُسكِت فئة كاملة من المسبِّحين لله، أو ما أسمِّيه إزعاج أو خلل لسمفونية الحياة. يُخبرنا القرآن الكريم أن الإنسان عندما يسيئ إستخدام القوة فهذا يؤدي إلى تدهور كل من رأس المال الطبيعي و رأس المال الإجتماعي لقوله تعالى “فهل عسيتم ان توليتم أن تفسدوا في الأرض وتقطعوا أرحامكم”. إن شهر رمضان يمثل منتدى انساني للتعاطف الأنساني والحوار بالكلمة الطيبة في عصر الفوضى التي نعيشها. لأن المسلمين يشكِّلون جزءا من المجتمع المدني العالمي، فهذا من شأنه أن يُعزِّز دورهم كسفراء للتغيّر من أجل السلام العالمي و الديمقراطية و الحرية والعيش المستدام من خلال احياء ومأسسة الزكاة والصدقات والوقف واحياء الأرض الموات.

و بالتالي، فإن التصدي لقضية تغيّر المناخ والفقر من منظور إسلامي يتطلب ادراك الأنسان لدوره وغايته كشاهد ومستخلف في الأمة الوسط. شهر رمضان هو المقياس والباروميتر الذي نتوق اليه لضمان الإنسجام و التوازن والتراحم والعطاء والزهد. شهر رمضان هو امتحان للخيارات البشرية وتغليب المصلحة العامة على الأنا حتى لا “يهلك الحرث والنسل” ولا نصل لحالة “بئر معطلة وقصر مشيد” بما كسبت أيدي الناس. لقد حدث إختلال في هذا التوازن نتيجة لإختيارات الإنسان التي أدت إلى الإستهلاك المفرط و و الإفراط في إستخدام الموارد ولكن هناك فرصة للعودة والتعلم من عظة التاريخ “لعلهم يرجعون”. إن البعد الأخلاقي للإسلام يتمثل في تطوير الوعي الجديد لحالة التصالح مع النفس والآخر والمحيط.

شهر رمضان دورة عملية ميدانية  لتأكيد مفهوم الزهد و الحد من الإسراف و التبذيروتقدير نعم وخيرات الله الظاهرة والباطنة، وهذا التأمل في أحوال البلاد والعباد يحفز على الإبتكار لتوليد فقه الواقع والموازنات والمآلات والمصلحة العامة.

خلاصة القول ان رمضان فرصة للتحول الى نمط الحياة الخضراء و التنمية المحلية الطيبة التي تعمل على المحافظة على الموارد كوسيلة للحياة و تدعم نماذج إنمائية صغيرة لعلنا نشكر ونرشد بعد أن نرنتقي لمرتبة التقوى.

أ.د عودة الجيوسي – مستشار دولي في التنمية المستدامة

Easy Eco-Friendly Habits for Students: How to Make a Difference

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Sustainability has become no longer a question of choice. With the danger of climate change and environmental decline looming over the world, people must now develop green tendencies to reverse their impact. The students, in particular, have a significant responsibility to make the world more sustainable. By instilling simple green habits in daily life, the students can reduce their carbon footprints while setting an example that others can look up to and follow.

1. Choose Sustainable Transport

One of the easiest things that students can do to ensure sustainability is by choosing greener modes of transportation. Instead of driving or using ride-hailing services, students can walk, ride bicycles, ride in car pools, or use public transport. Not only is this carbon-conserving, but it also assists in developing a healthier habit.

sustainable transport

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the transportation sector contributes nearly 29% of the U.S. greenhouse gases. The majority of colleges and universities have bike-sharing centers or encourage students to use public transport. Smart Growth America is a website that provides data on sustainable urban planning and green modes of commuting.

2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The three Rs of reducing, reusing, and recycling are cornerstones of sustainability. They can start by reducing their wastage using reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and coffee mugs. As much as possible, they should buy second-hand books, clothes, and furniture with a focus on minimizing waste generation. Recycling paper, plastic, and electronic waste is also crucial in the minimization of landfill contributions.

Recycling programs exist in many universities and colleges, and thus the students need to take advantage of such centers. One of the best sources of information on recycling best practices is Earth911, which provides in-depth guides to waste management and green alternatives.

waste awareness in qatar

3. Save Energy and Water

Conservation of energy and water are critical elements of sustainability. Simple actions like switching off lights when exiting a room, switching off electronic devices when not in use, and using energy-efficient appliances can make a big impact. Water-conserving activities like showering less, leak repairs, and fitting water-savings devices save resources as well.

Dorm and shared room inhabitants can discuss conserving habits of energy with the roommate to trigger a group sense of effort that leads to lower use of utility services. The students can reference Energy Star online for products qualified by certification as well as saving tips.

4. Embrace Sustainable Food Selection

Food options have a major influence on the environment. Students can practice greener food habits by consuming plant-based foods, reducing food waste, and buying locally grown foods. In a study conducted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), food production results in nearly one-third of the greenhouse gas emissions in the world. Buying from local farmers and using organic products can also lower environmental impact.

veganism in mena

University cafeterias now more frequently offer vegan options, and students can even participate in food recovery programs, providing surplus food to the poor. Precious resources like Sustainable Table provide complete information on sustainable agriculture and responsible food choices.

5. Support Ethical and Sustainable Brands

Environmental pollution and waste are contributed heavily by immoral consumption and fast fashion. Students should go out of their way to find brands dedicated to sustainability and ethical manufacturing. Choosing eco-friendly fashion brands, using sustainable school materials, and being mindful of shopping habits can have a lasting impact on the environment.

Some companies now produce clothing from recycled items or practice fair labor, which can be shopped for by students. Online resources like Good On You give people scores for various brands based on their sustainability, allowing them to make better choices.

6. Be Active in Campus Sustainability Efforts

Several colleges and universities provide green projects, environmental clubs, and sustainability programs that encourage students to take part. Practical experience in conserving the environment can be provided by activities like tree-planting activities, clean-up activities, or campaigns on renewable energy.

Some colleges have green certification of student residences, which acknowledge dorms with sustainable practices. Students can also urge green policies within their campuses, such as reducing single-use plastics or adding composting programs.

environmentally-friendly college

7. Educate and Champion Sustainability

A change is initiated most effectively through awareness. Students can inform other students on how to practice sustainability, start climate discussions, and mobilize campaign pressure for policy changes in their institutions of learning. Essay writing or research work on sustainability is also effective for awareness. Academic writing, however, is not necessarily simple, especially when handling complex environmental issues. For students who need assistance with argument organization or extensive research, writing service WriteMyEssays provides professional guidance to enhance academic accuracy.

Additionally, students can benefit from joining online sustainability forums as a way of keeping up to speed with the latest trends in environmental conservation. Sites such as The Nature Conservancy offer learning resources, volunteer networks, and concrete actions for individuals who want to contribute positively towards sustainability.

8. Reduce Digital Footprint

The majority of people overlook the ecological price tag on digital consumption. Data processing, excessive use of cloud storage, and video streaming use a significant amount of electricity. Students can reduce their digital carbon footprint by unsubscribing from unsolicited emails, reducing video streaming resolution, and deleting obsolete files stored on cloud-based systems. Using search engines like Ecosia, which plants trees for every search, is another simple way to show support for ecological sustainability.

Conclusion

Sustainability is a never-ending process that requires concerted effort. Through the implementation of simple eco-friendly habits, students can significantly impact their communities and the world at large. From transport modes to mindful consumption or activism, every small step counts. As future leaders and change-agents, students can impact a greener world—one healthy decision at a time.

The Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources in MENA

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Freshwater shortage in the MENA region is posing a serious threat to economic growth, social cohesion, peace and political stability. Furthermore, today’s freshwater usage does not account for its present and future availability but rather is based on sectoral and geographical competing consumption needs. To make matters worse, this already dire situation is being exacerbated by the rapidly changing climate. Climate change affects water resources by its profound impact on water quantity, variability, timing, form, and intensity of precipitation.

climate change effect on water resources

Climate change is profoundly affecting water resources in the Middle East

The MENA region, in particular, is highly vulnerable to the disruptive climate change effects because countries within this region are unarguably among the most water-stressed worldwide, with water availability per capita well below the global average.  In addition, most MENA countries belong to a critical combination of low rainfall and high spatial and temporal rainfall variability, with Lebanon being better off among the group in terms of precipitation, and Qatar being worst off in terms of both precipitation and rainfall variability.

How Climate Change Affects Water Resources

Warmer temperatures increase the rate of evaporation of water into the atmosphere, in effect increasing the atmosphere’s capacity to “hold” water. This causes earlier and shorter runoff seasons and increases dry seasons. Increased evaporation also decreases soil moisture levels, which in turn increases the frequency of droughts, and increases the likelihood of desertification. In addition, a decrease in soil moisture also lowers infiltration rates, consequently reducing underground aquifer recharge rate.

Climate change also impacts sea levels. Rising sea levels could reduce water quality and availability in coastal areas. Rising sea levels can affect the quality of groundwater through saltwater intrusion into the aquifers. In addition, a rise in sea level will affect above ground hydrology of coastal areas thus reducing freshwater run offs and the presence of above ground freshwater bodies.

On the other hand, rising sea levels could also cause water tables in groundwater aquifers to rise, which could increase surface runoff, but at the expense of aquifer recharge. It is predicted that sea levels will rise by 19 to 58 cm by the end of the 21st century, which will affect 12 out of the 19 MENA countries. Such an increase in sea level could cost Egypt, one of the main countries to be affected by sea level rise, 10% of the Nile Delta population together with agricultural land and production.

These decreases in water resources will have costly socio-economic consequences. Water is used in food production, energy production, manufacturing, navigation, land use, and recreation. Therefore it will become increasingly difficult to maintain balance between all human needs while water resources keep diminishing.

water scarcity

For example, it is predicted that increased temperatures will increase crop water demand by 5-8% by 2070, which will have to be compensated by using water that was allocated to energy production, thus harming energy production capabilities. The decrease in water resources would also precipitate an increase in the price of water, through monthly water bills, or one-time connection fees for new homes and businesses.

Finally, Decreasing water resources will also lead governments to resorting to economically intensive projects such as desalination plants, pipelines (Red – Dead Sea conveyance project), and dams. These projects are not only economically intensive, but also environmentally unsustainable and will eventually contribute to global warming and climate change (CO2 emissions from desalination plants).

Key Takeaways

Global warming is undeniable and the increase in greenhouse gas emissions will have profound climatic, environmental, and societal impacts worldwide, especially in terms of water resources. This is of great concern for MENA countries, where there has been a recorded increase in frequency of droughts, and where water availability is expected to decrease by 30-50% by 2050.

Therefore MENA countries must reduce their respective GHG emissions and make a transition to and clean sources of energy. Regional countries must make urgent and long-term efforts to conserve water by reducing demand and consumption, improving water infrastructure to reduce leakages, improve water management techniques and remove water subsidies.

Every individual depends on a reliable, clean supply of freshwater to sustain his or her health. Water is essential in every part of life from energy and food production to ecosystem maintenance. Therefore actions must be taken not only to stop its decline, but also to improve its status, because without water, there will be no life.

Information Resources:

ICBA: http://siteresources.worldbank.org/INTMENAINFRENCH/Resources/Shawki.pdf

FAO: http://bit.ly/1vAZuWK

Choices: http://www.choicesmagazine.org/2008-1/theme/2008-1-04.htm

UNEP: http://www.unep.org/geo/geo_ice/PDF/GEO_C6_C_LowRes.pdf