النفايات الغذائية وروح رمضان

By | | , , ,
Leave a comment

في السنوات الأخيرة، أثارت  الكميات الهائلة من النفايات الغذائية خلال شهر رمضان المبارك جدل كبير في البلدان الإسلامية وغيرها. وفقا تقديرات متحفظة، نحو خمس المواد الغذائية التي يتم شراؤها أو التي أعدت خلال شهر رمضان تجد طريقها إلى صناديق القمامة أو مقالب النفيات. وهذا يمثل الاف الأطنان من المواد الغذائية الثمينة التي كان يمكن استخدامها لتغذية عشرات الملايين من الجياع في الدول الفقيرة في آسيا وأفريقيا وأماكن أخرى.هذه الكمية المذهلة من النفايات الغذائية خلال شهر رمضان تتطلب استراتيجية قوية وعاجلة للتقليل منها ،و استغلالها بشكل مستدام و كذلك التخلص منها  بكيفية صديقة للبيئة.

food waste in ramadan

خطورة الوضع

تعتبر دول الشرق الأوسط  أكبر المبذرين للاغذية في العالم، وخلال شهر رمضان يأخذ الوضع  منعطفا نحو الأسوأ. شهدت مدينة مكة المكرمة انتاج  5000 طن من مخلفات الطعام خلال الأيام الثلاثة الأولى من شهر رمضان في عام 2014. و يضيع حوالي 500 طن من المواد الغذائية في دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة خلال شهر رمضان المبارك. في البحرين، وتوليد النفايات الغذائية يتجاوز 400 طن يوميا خلال الشهر الفضيل.نفسه الحال في قطر حيث يجد ما يقرب من نصف المواد الغذائية التي أعدت خلال شهر رمضان طريقها إلى صناديق القمامة. السيناريو في دول إسلامية أقل ثراء ،مثل ماليزيا واندونيسيا ومصر وباكستان ،لا يختلف. وذكرت الوكالة الحكومية  لإدارة النفايات الصلبة و التنظيف العمومي في ماليزيا، أن أكثر من 270،000 طن من المواد الغذائية ألقيت في صناديق القمامة خلال شهر رمضان.

لا حاجة للتذكير أن كمية النفايات الغذائية المنتجة في رمضان هو أعلى بكثير من غيره من الشهور،بنسبة  تصل إلى 25٪. هناك ميول مزمن للمسلمين تجاه الإفراط في التساهل والإسراف في شهر رمضان، على الرغم من أن النبي محمد ( صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) أمرالمسلمين تبني الاعتدال في كل مناحي الحياة. المواقف الاجتماعية والثقافية وأنماط الحياة المترفة تلعب أيضا  دورا رئيسيا في توليد المزيد من فضلات الطعام في شهر رمضان في الدول الإسلامية كلها تقريبا. الفئات ذات الدخل المرتفع عادة ما تظهر معدلا أكبر من النفايات الغذائية للفرد الواحد بالمقارنة مع الفئات الأقل ثراء. في الدول الإسلامية، الفنادق والمطاعم تساهم  بقدر كبيرمن النفايات الغذائية خلال شهر رمضان بسبب البوفيهات المترفة وحفلات الإفطار الباهظة.

food trash in ramadan

Super-lavish buffets and extravagant Iftar parties are big contributors of food waste in Ramadan

 النهج القويم

أهم الخطوات للحد من هدر الغذاء في شهر رمضان تكمن في تغيير السلوك، وزيادة الوعي العام ،وسنّ التشريعات ، وإنشاء بنوك الطعام والمشاركة المجتمعية. نحن في حاجة إلى قوانين فعالة وحملات توعية لإقناع الناس بالإلتزام بتقليل النفايات و تبنّي أساليب الحياة المستدامة. انشاء بنوك الغذاء في المناطق السكنية وكذلك التجارية يمكن أن يكون وسيلة فعّالة جدا للاستفادة من فائض المواد الغذائية بطريقة إنسانية وأخلاقية.في الواقع، بنوك الغذاء في دول مثل مصر والهند وباكستان تعمل بنجاح، ولكن هناك حاجة ماسّة لمثل هذه المبادرات على نطاق أوسع لمواجهة هذا التهديد الذي تمثله فضلات الطعام.

وضعت دبي مبادئ توجيهية جديدة لخفض الهدر الغذائي وتبسيط التبرع بالمواد الغذائية الزائدة التي أعدت في الحفلات والبوفيهات.  “حِـفْظ النعمة” هي مبادرة بارزة لضمان أن فائض الطعام من الفنادق وحفلات الإفطار والأسر لا يضيع وأن يصل إلى المحتاجين في ظروف آمنة وصحية.

خلال شهر رمضان المبارك لعام 2015، أطلقت بلدية دبي مبادرة تسمى “المنازل الذكية”، والتي سوف تستمر هذا العام. المبادرة تحث المقيمين في دبي على الحد من النفايات خلال الشهر الفضيل. “المنازل الذكية” هي تقنية لجمع النفايات في حاويات الإلكترونية تقيس كمية النفايات التي ينتجها كل منزل. المبادرة تستهدف أساسا المناطق السكنية التي أغلبها من آلإماراتيين بسبب تجمعاتهم العائلية الكبيرة. البيوت التي تنتج كمية أقل من النفايات خلال شهر رمضان تحصل على  جوائز نقدية وشهاداتتنويه لتشجيعهم على تقليل النفايات.

بالإضافة إلى هذه المبادرات، يمكن لعلماء الدين وأئمة المساجد أن يلعبوا دور حيويا في تحفيز المسلمين على اتباع مبادئ الاستدامة الإسلامية، كما ذكر في القرآن الكريم والحديث الشريف. أفضل طريقة للحد من هدر المواد الغذائية خلال شهر رمضان هي أن نتضامن مع الملايين والملايين من الناس في جميع أنحاء العالم الذين يواجهون صعوبات كبيرة في الحصول على وجبة واحدة كل يوم.

ترجمه للعربية –  يوسف بنغزواني

خريج المعهد العالي للتجارة و إدارة المقاولات بالمغرب. حاصل على البكالوريا في الاقتصاد  وعلى ماجستير في إدارة الأعمال (MBA) من كندا. هو ايضا متخصص في إدارة المشاريع معتمد  من قبل معهد إدارة المشاريع (PMI) في الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية.  

Eco-Friendly Electrical Solutions for a Sustainable World

By | | , ,
1 Comment

You constantly seek efficient ways to reduce your carbon footprint, yet the challenge remains daunting. Rising utility bills and growing climate concerns spur you to find new strategies that power your home sustainably.

You want simple, effective solutions that don’t compromise comfort or safety. By embracing solar panels, LED lighting, and energy-efficient electrical upgrades, you stay a step ahead. Your commitment to cleaner power starts with a trusted partner.

eco-friendly electrical solutions

For guidance on greener wiring and maintenance, rely on an Eco Friendly electrician who understands your environmental vision. You can harness renewable energy sources to minimize emissions, reduce costs, and secure a brighter future.

Why Eco-Electricity Matters

You’re living in a world where sustainable power solutions are no longer optional, but essential. By embracing clean electricity, you directly support a healthier planet.

  • Reduce carbon output: lower overall emissions and mitigate climate change.
  • Empower local economies: encourage job creation and regional growth.
  • Foster energy independence: reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.
  • Improve public health: limit harmful airborne pollutants and risks.
  • Drive technological innovation: stimulate research in clean energy solutions.

Your daily habits gain deeper value when powered by eco-friendly electricity. You help shift global energy trends, positively guaranteeing a stable environment for future generations.

Exploring Renewable Energy Sources

You’re probably noticing a surge in renewables. Whether it’s solar, wind, or geothermal, these solutions harness endless resources while drastically cutting greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.

As renewable technologies become more accessible, the way they’re communicated matters too. Clear renewable energy marketing helps households and businesses understand benefits, incentives, and long-term value — turning interest into real-world adoption. For examples of how sustainability messaging can stay authentic and data-backed, see how twentytwo&brand approaches brand storytelling in clean energy and climate-positive sectors.

Solar, Wind, and More

So many clean options exist beyond standard choices. Wave power, hydropower, and biomass are increasingly reliable, letting you diversify your energy mix for greater stability.

Balancing Efficiency and Affordability

You want modern solutions that won’t break your budget. Many nations are incentivizing renewables with subsidies, lowering costs and increasing access for everyday households businesses.

Environmental Co-Benefits

Beyond electricity, renewables champion biodiversity, water conservation, and climate protection. By adopting eco-tech, you reduce habitat destruction and preserve resources needed for future societal growth.

Harnessing Solar Power Effectively

Solar power offers cost-effective potential for your home or business. By installing panels, you tap into the sun’s transformative energy and slash monthly utility bills.

Panel Efficiency Evolution

Modern photovoltaics are becoming more efficient every year. Innovative materials and improved designs ensure you capture maximum sunlight, even during cloudy conditions or limited daylight.

Storage and Backup Systems

Batteries pair well with solar arrays to keep electricity flowing whenever demand rises. You stay powered through storms, outages, or nighttime hours with reliable results.

Community Collaboration

You can promote neighborhood-wide adoption by advocating shared solar initiatives. Combining resources spreads costs, reduces risk, and boosts overall impact for a broader, equitable and cleaner future.

For detailed guidance on global solar goals, visit the United Nations resource highlighting large-scale efforts, and future prospects worldwide, paving the way for policy shifts.

Wind Energy’s Growing Impact

You see more turbines everywhere. Wind power is scaling rapidly, delivering clean electricity to millions while decreasing reliance on fossil fuel-generated sources and boosting sustainability.

Onshore vs. Offshore

Onshore farms are more common, but offshore developments harness stronger and steadier breezes. You gain continuous output, maximizing overall production and supporting peak electricity demand.

small wind turbines by freen

A Tech-Driven Future

Smarter turbine designs reduce noise and everyday maintenance costs while boosting performance. Modern sensors read wind patterns, letting you adjust blade angles for optimal efficiency.

Community Engagement

Successful wind initiatives depend on public support. You can encourage transparency, fair land use agreements, and inclusive decision-making to foster trust and widespread project acceptance.

Innovative Eco-Friendly Electrical Technologies

Innovation fuels green energy’s rapid expansion. You see incredible breakthroughs from energy storage to decentralized grids, all aiming to enhance reliability, affordability, and environmental responsibility.

  • Smart grids: real-time data-driven networks ensuring efficient power routing and reduced wastage.
  • Hydrogen solutions: storing energy from renewables as clean, flexible fuel sources.
  • Building automation: sensor-run systems optimizing heat, lighting, and ventilation.
  • Wireless charging: convenient options that eliminate the need for traditional cables and outlets.
  • Energy harvesting devices: tiny generators collecting ambient energy for small-scale electronic applications.

These technologies spur fresh economic opportunities. By embracing them, you consistently reduce carbon footprints while enjoying faster, smarter, and more resilient electrical services every day.

Also Read: Industrial Hazards to Ethernet Cables

Advantages of Sustainable Energy Adoption

A shift toward renewables invigorates economies, improves public health, and alleviates climate risks. You’re investing in prosperity and safeguarding global generations simultaneously, and fostering stability.

Economic Growth

Clean industries create more new jobs, from research and manufacturing to installation and maintenance. You help strengthen steady local markets and diversify income streams sustainably.

Healthier Communities

Green power reduces pollution-related diseases, lowering healthcare expenses. As you transition your lifestyle, you breathe cleaner air and experience improved well-being, enjoying long-term societal benefits.

Climate Security

Emissions-free energy helps slow global warming, preventing extreme weather events. Your switch propels vital reductions in greenhouse gases that threaten Earth’s balance and protect communities.

Accelerating Electric Vehicle Integration

Transportation electrification offers incredible prospects. By choosing electric vehicles, you diminish tailpipe emissions, reduce noise pollution, and truly move us closer to full electrified mobility.

  • Wider model availability: expanded EV lineups catering to various lifestyles and budgets.
  • Longer range batteries: improved storage capacity keeps you confident during extended drives.
  • Growing charging networks: simplified roadway travel with abundant quick-charging stations.
  • Smart charging solutions: schedule recharges to optimize off-peak rates and grid stability.
  • Fleet electrification: companies shift commercial vehicles to EVs, slashing logistical costs and emissions.

When you embrace EVs, you support reduced dependence on oil, expanded clean tech investment, and healthier communities. Every drive becomes truly part of something bigger.

Microgrids for Sustainable Energy Independence

Microgrids function autonomously or alongside larger networks, providing localized power management. You gain resilience, significantly minimize outages, and protect vital infrastructure from major unexpected disruptions.

Localized Control

Microgrid operators can segregate from the main grid when needed. You maintain steady electricity supplies, especially during storms or unexpected grid-level failures, and ensure reliability.

smart grid components

Renewable Integration

A microgrid easily incorporates solar, wind, or biomass generation. You boost self-sufficiency while lowering dependence on centralized plants that rely heavily on imported fossil fuels.

Critical Infrastructure Support

Hospitals, emergency services, and essential businesses benefit from microgrids. You keep vital operations running even if main lines fail during dramatic disasters or peak demand.

Government Incentives and Policy Support

Policy frameworks can rapidly expand renewable energy adoption. You benefit from tax credits, rebates, and regulations that encourage private investments in sustainable infrastructure and cheaper financing.

Streamlined Permits

Faster approvals simplify the project pipeline, so you see renewables installed quickly. This accelerates market growth and fosters a competitive environment among clean energy providers.

Research and Development Funds

When authorities allocate resources for innovation, everyone benefits. You witness advanced technologies maturing faster, resulting in lower costs and dramatically improved performance across renewable markets.

Pathway to Equity

Well-crafted policies ensure cleaner power reaches disadvantaged communities. You support fair access, bridging social divides and truly guaranteeing environmental benefits for every segment of society.

Real-World Renewable Energy Successes

Countries worldwide implement large-scale clean initiatives, demonstrating feasibility and cost reductions. By examining real data, you learn how renewables transform entire economies and enhance security.

  • Denmark’s wind leadership: over 40% of its energy originates from wind farms.
  • Spain’s solar surge: robust PV installations power millions of homes effectively.
  • Kenya’s geothermal breakthroughs: tapping volcanic resources for aplenty, steady electricity.
  • Germany’s Energiewende policies: encouraging rapid renewable growth and decreased coal reliance.
  • South Australia’s mega-battery: guaranteeing grid stability and supporting high renewable fractions.

Eager for projected trends? Review the IEA’s latest findings to see how global energy evolves by 2030, confirming renewables’ impressive and unstoppable market dominance.

Empower a Greener Tomorrow

You drive change by adopting renewable solutions, embracing emerging innovations, and inspiring others toward collective action. By choosing clean energy, leveraging policy incentives, and supporting electric mobility, you secure a resilient tomorrow and purposefully preserve the planet’s vitality for generations.

The Importance of Minimizing Food Waste During Ramadan

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

The month of Ramadan is a great opportunity to draw closer to Allah and review daily habits and behaviors, including eating habits. During this blessed month, the focus is on fasting and worship, but it is also important to reflect on the impact of food waste on society and the environment, especially with the high rates of food waste during Iftar and Suhoor.

food waste minimization in ramadan

The Holy Quran says:

“Eat and drink, but do not waste. Surely He does not like the wasteful.”

[Al-A’raf: 31].

This noble verse lays a strong foundation for the concept of moderation and balance in consumption, as Allah Almighty forbids extravagance and emphasizes that moderation in eating and drinking is a beloved behavior that pleases Allah.

As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Eat, drink, dress, and give in charity without extravagance and without conceit” [narrated by Ahmad].

This ecological hadith directs us to achieve balance in our consumption, as Islam encourages generosity and charity, but at the same time it calls for avoiding waste and extravagance.

There are many reasons for food waste during the holy month of Ramadan, the most prominent of which is preparing excessive amounts of food that exceed the family’s needs, which leads to disposing of the surplus, in addition to rushing to prepare the Iftar and Suhoor table without prior planning, which causes some foods to spoil before they are eaten. Moreover, social customs, such as large banquets, contribute to a significant increase in food waste.

To avoid this phenomenon, individuals and communities bear the responsibility of reducing food waste by making conscious decisions at the family and community levels. This can be achieved by proper meal planning, purchasing the appropriate quantities of food, and reusing surplus food instead of throwing it away. The culture of donating food to needy people can also be promoted through food banks that distribute food to less privileged sections of the society.

food bank in dubai

In addition, food waste can be reduced by adopting sustainable practices, such as storing food properly to preserve it for a longer period, and using leftover food to prepare new recipes, in addition to raising community awareness about the importance of preserving food resources.

Ultimately, reducing food waste is a noble behavior that espouses Islamic values ​​and contributes to achieving social justice by helping the poor and needy. The minimization of food waste also helps to preserve natural resources and protect the environment from the detrimental impacts of food waste. Therefore, adopting responsible eating habits during Ramadan is an important step towards achieving sustainability and social solidarity.

Maximizing Your College Planning: Tips for Future Success

By | | ,
Leave a comment

Embarking on the journey to higher education can be an exhilarating but complex process. From choosing the right institution to securing sufficient funding, every decision made can significantly affect a student’s future. With careful planning and strategic actions, high school students and their families can navigate through the maze of college admissions and emerge successfully. Below, we provide key insights and actionable tips to maximize your college planning for future success.

college planning guide

Financial Strategies for Higher Education

Navigating the financial aspect of college planning is a critical component of the process. Understanding the cost of attendance, which includes tuition, books, housing, and other expenses, is the first step. Once you have a clear picture, establishing a savings plan early can alleviate financial strain in the future. Families might explore 529 plans or other savings accounts specifically designed for education-related expenses.

Financial aid is a vital resource for most college-bound students. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Deadlines for these forms are stringent, and early submission often yields better financial aid packages. Students should also research state and institutional aid programs that they may qualify for.

Scholarships represent another avenue to fund higher education. These awards are based on various criteria such as academic merit, athletic ability, artistic skills, or community service. Students should actively search and apply for scholarships, including niche scholarships that align with their unique backgrounds or interests. For example, securing scholarships for college freshman can significantly reduce the financial burden of the first year of study.

Leveraging Technology in College Preparation

When preparing for college, students can harness technology to streamline the process and enhance their preparedness. Digital platforms offer virtual tours, allowing prospective students to explore campuses nationwide without the need for travel. This can be especially helpful in narrowing down college choices or in deciding between final options.

Online resources also provide a plethora of information on college readiness, from webinars and MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) to blogs and academic forums. Utilizing these tools can strengthen study skills, expand knowledge on chosen subjects, and offer insights into collegiate life. Participating in online communities can also offer valuable support and advice from peers undergoing similar experiences.

The savvy student might even explore online degree programs or consider supplementing their college education with online courses. For those looking to pursue advanced degrees, resources like a masters education leadership program can be easily accessed online—providing flexibility and breadth to post-secondary education options.

Developing a Comprehensive Academic and Extracurricular Profile

Colleges look for well-rounded applicants who excel not only academically but also in extracurricular activities. Students should aim to maintain a strong GPA throughout high school but also engage in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or artistic endeavors that showcase their interests and talents. This balance demonstrates to college admissions officers a capacity for time management and passion beyond the classroom.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, and dual enrollment classes are valuable opportunities to exhibit academic rigor and earn college credit. Participating in these challenging curricula can make a college application stand out and also reduce future college coursework. Such experiences signal a student’s readiness for the rigor of college-level academics.

Leadership positions within extracurricular activities are particularly impressive on a college application. Whether serving as captain of a sports team, president of a student organization, or founder of a community service project, these roles illustrate initiative, responsibility, and the ability to collaborate with others. Students should seek positions that align with their interests and where they can genuinely contribute.

education-for-sustainable-development

Building a Strong Support Network for Educational Success

A robust support network is instrumental to the success of any college-bound student. Engaging with mentors, teachers, and guidance counselors can provide encouragement and advice tailored to individual goals. These relationships also facilitate strong letters of recommendation that can impress college admissions committees and scholarship boards.

Connecting with peers who are also preparing for college can offer a sense of camaraderie and a shared pool of knowledge. Whether through a college prep club at school or an online community, networking with others in the same phase of life can provide moral support and motivation. These peer networks can often continue to provide support throughout one’s college career.

Altogether, a strategic approach to college planning will encompass an understanding of the admissions landscape, academic excellence, finance management, technology utilization, and the cultivation of a strong support network. Overall, with these components in place, students will be well-equipped to tackle the college admissions process and achieve educational success.

Food Wastage in Ramadan: An Urgent Call to Action

By | | , , ,
2 Comments

The month of Ramadan witnesses a great rush of frantic buyers who are buying and storing food items and allied commodities. Unfortunately, Muslims countries, especially Gulf nations, generate huge quantities of food waste which increases manifolds during the month of Ramadan and festivals like Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Adha whereby the consumption and wastage of food increase at an alarming level.

food-waste-Ramadan

Firstly, the food habits change in the month of Ramadan whereby Sahoor or breakfast/ meal is taken early in the morning. Later after sunset Iftar/ Fatoor (opening of the fast) is taken usually with specially cooked food, drinks and meals later to be followed by dinner. Use of various snacks also continues till early morning. To cope up with this extra demand of food usage, majority of individuals and families buy more than what is required putting an extra pressure on food item providers who procure and import extra quantity of food to meet with the customers demands.

Secondly, a large quantity of food is wasted which is often cooked and un-utilized as people prefer to have fresh food and items made for Suhoor which are not usually consumed at Fatoor. Similarly, food items made at Fatoor are also not much utilized at dinner where the menu is different, causing great wastage of food which ultimately find its way to the garbage bin and ultimately landing at the only landfill site in the country.

food-overconsumption

The extra food waste has to be stored in communal bins provided by the waste management contractors, handled, loaded and transported by trucks and disposed at landfill site, where it is compacted and covered with soil, causing an extra burden on the waste collection contractors, cost to municipalities and utilizing extra quarry areas causing pollution of varied nature.

While the dumping of food and other organic waste poses many serious environmental problems like attracting birds, proliferation of vermin and insects, generation of greenhouse gases but the major problem is huge waste of money as foreign exchange in procuring the expensive food items which are mainly imported from nearby and far-off countries.

Food wastage is being done at many stages, firstly significant quantity of food procured by the wholesalers, importers, traders get expired and have to be thrown and discarded. Secondly, the retailers also discard huge quantity of food which is not being bought by the consumers, which get rot and expired and needs to be disposed of. Thirdly, the consumers after buying the food items also waste in two forms, either the items are un-utilized and expired or it is being processed, cooked but remains unused, uneaten and get rot and thrown into the garbage.

Around 15-20% of all food purchased by consumers becomes rot and find its way to the garbage bin before even being used or eaten. This percentage increases to around 30% during Ramadan and festivals.

Global food shortages, soaring commodity prices, changing weather pattern, greenhouse gases and alarming impacts on the environment require an immediate action towards this neglected subject. Today, hundreds of millions of people worldwide face food shortages caused by rising populations, droughts and increased demand for land, which have sparked riots and protests from Haiti to Mauritania and from Yemen to the Philippines.

food-waste-management-qatar

The enormous food waste generation can be witnessed at all levels from the wholesaler to retailer and to consumers. It is environmentally and morally offensive that as a society we have become so casual about the basic materials of life. Over the period of years, the society and people have become more wasteful due to rise in income, living standards and affordability. But affordability does not mean that wastage should increase.

“It is worth reminding ourselves that for every tonne of food waste we avoid creating, we save four and a half tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent”.

We need to develop better food habits and respect for Mother Nature. The “social and cultural solution” lies in the smart way of dealing with food waste. We should:

  • Buy only what we want and in actual quantities rather than random shopping.
  • Buying items with a longer expiry dates for ease in using it during that period.
  • Buying food items especially fruits and vegetables in smaller quantities depending on use.
  • Daily checking the food items in our fridge/ deep freezer and in our fruit basket regarding items that may get rot/ expired. Utilizing it or giving it to others before it becomes waste.
  • Utilizing leftover foods. Storing, saving and re-using the left overs ‘as it is’ or making other food/ eatables from the left overs.

How to Green Your Ramadan: An Easy Guide

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

Ramadan is a month which is very different than other months in terms of activities, praying and eating habits. The month call for not eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset to boost physical and mental endurance and to understand the hardships faced by the unprivileged human beings who do not have enough resources to satisfy their basic necessities. The true meaning of Ramadan is purifying ourselves, taking care of our body, soul, people, surrounding and ecosystems which is supporting us.

environmentally-friendly-ramadan

The month of Ramadan is a golden opportunity to consider making a shift towards a green and sustainable lifestyle that is environment-friendly, non-polluting, non-wasteful and aim toward saving of natural resources. The green lifestyle means improving the quality of life and achieving sustainable development.

Let us create awareness on resource usage during Ramadan, think and act positively towards our environment and change unsustainable habits which are harming our environment. Let us seize this opportunity provided by Ramadan and adopt a model for a green and responsible behavior that addresses the urgent environmental issues.

The month sees an over-consumption of meat, vegetables and fruits together with drinks, juices and syrups. We become more extravagant in terms of using food and resources. Unfortunately, Ramadan has also become synonymous with tremendous food waste generation in Islamic countries, especially in the Middle East. So, let us be patient on these consumption, eat healthy and organic food in manageable quantities.

Let us grow vegetables and fruits at our available land/ space. Use food items judiciously and avoid any wastage. Let us be away from our routine habits that pollute our air, soil and water resources. Let us be aware of our wasteful habits which are affecting the environment and our future generations.

We need to understand that any mismanagement of our precious available resources will be having an irreversible impacts on our ecology and for our future generations. Let us make concerted effort to encourage and embrace green practices, especially during Ramadan.

green-ramadan

Use food items judiciously and avoid any wastage during Ramadan

Ramadan presents the perfect opportunity to recharge our spiritual batteries for the year. It is a time to seek forgiveness for our misgivings and to reflect upon the signs of creation from Allah. As human beings, we have a duty as stewards over this planet, and it is our responsibility to ensure that the resources and environment are used in a sustainable manner.

Also Read: The Importance of Minimizing Food Waste During Ramadan

Let the holy month of Ramadan not only harness our mental and physical ability but also be a turning point for respecting our natural resources and environment. Here are some basic tips to green your Ramadan:

  • Support and utilize local produce.
  • Plan food usage with no wastage.
  • Reducing the water usage, especially during ablutions. Be vigilant that the tap is closed. Any dripping should be eliminated to conserve precious water.
  • Reducing our energy and carbon footprint.
  • Generating less quantity of waste especially food waste. Support and practice recycling and reuse.
  • No littering especially in common areas, commercial and religious places and shopping areas.
  • Minimum or no use of plastic bags. Using less paper and stationery.
  • Switching off appliances after use like lights, ACs, fans, heaters, iron etc.
  • Using electrical appliances like washing machines, iron, vacuum cleaner and dishwashers in off peak hours.
  • Replacing lights bulbs from incandescent to compact fluorescent and turning off lights when they are not in use.
  • Eliminate use of disposables plates, cutlery, cups, containers etc. Avoid using styrofoam containers and plastic cutlery.

The Benefits of Natural Ventilation in Buildings

By | | ,
9 Comments

Natural ventilation is a method of allowing fresh outdoor air into indoor living spaces by natural means without the use of air conditioning units and other types of mechanically driven devices. It  is the process of changing or replacing stale or noxious air with fresh air in any space to provide high indoor air quality to control temperature, replenish oxygen, remove moisture, odors, smoke, heat, dust, airborne bacteria and carbon dioxide.

natural ventilation

Ventilation is important as it reduces unhealthy air pollutants, such as formaldehyde and radon. It reduces excessive moisture and humidity levels, which can lead to mold growth and can cause structural damage. Ventilation reduces naturally occurring odors in the house from pets, cooking, smoking, and other everyday living activities.

While buying or moving to a dwelling, we often consider factors like exterior and interior of building, paint, space, location, building finishes, tiles, ceramics, bathroom and electrical fittings etc., but we never ponder on the ventilation aspect. Perhaps this is due to having air conditioners in almost all modern buildings.

Ventilation is provided through openings such as windows, ventilators and doors. Because of central cooling systems, most people don’t open windows and doors as often. Therefore, air conditioning has become the only principal mode of ventilation in urban surroundings.

A home’s natural ventilation rate is unpredictable and uncontrollable due to the openings, depending on dwelling location, size and number of openings in wind direction. Thus, one cannot rely on natural wind only to ventilate a house uniformly.

Ventilation is needed for removing water vapor produced by respiration, burning, and cooking, and for removing odors. If water vapor is permitted to accumulate, it may damage the structure, insulation, or finishes. In the absence of adequate ventilation, irritating or harmful contaminants can build up, causing occupant discomfort, health problems and reduced performance levels.

Harmful pollutants from a variety of sources can contribute to building-related illnesses. Ventilation systems that are improperly operated or maintained can contribute to sick building syndrome (SBS) which may cause symptoms like dry mucous membranes, eyes, nose and throat irritation. These disorders lead to increased occupant sickness and reduced work efficiency.

stack ventilation

The advantages of natural ventilation are many and can have a tremendous positive impact on its occupants, building and the environment. It is suggested that natural ventilation is to be used on optimum basis keeping following aspects in mind:

  • Use fans at appropriate locations to blow air from the cool side of the dwelling to the hotter side.
  • Don’t keep your windows closed.
  • Do occasional air wash of your dwelling.
  • Open windows for durations, depending on the sunlight and its intensity.
  • Cross ventilation in a dwelling will enhance air quality and will avoid it to become a sick building.
  • Provide fountains, pools or swimming pools outside the dwelling which can act as transition spaces where air is naturally cooled before passing through interiors.

A proper design, operation and maintenance of the ventilation system is essential in providing indoor air that is free of harmful concentrations of pollutants. Improvements in indoor ventilation may substantially increase an individual’s health, morale and productivity.

أهمية تقليل هدر الطعام في شهر رمضان

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

عدّ شهر رمضان فرصة عظيمة للتقرّب إلى الله عز وجل ومراجعة العادات والسلوكيات اليومية، بما في ذلك العادات الغذائية. في هذا الشهر الفضيل، يدور التركيز حول الصيام والعبادة، لكن من الضروري أيضًا أن نتأمل في تأثير هدر الطعام على المجتمع والبيئة، خاصة مع ارتفاع معدلات الإسراف في الطعام خلال الإفطار والسحور.

food wastage in ramadan

قد ورد في القرآن الكريم قوله تعالى:

“وَكُلُوا وَاشْرَبُوا وَلَا تُسْرِفُوا إِنَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ الْمُسْرِفِينَ“

[الأعراف: 31].

هذه الآية الكريمة تضع أساسًا قويًا لمفهوم الاعتدال والوسطية في الاستهلاك، حيث ينهى الله سبحانه وتعالى عن الإسراف ويؤكد أن الاعتدال في الأكل والشرب هو سلوك محبب يرضي الله. 

كما قال النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم: “كُلُوا وَاشْرَبُوا وَتَصَدَّقُوا وَالْبَسُوا فِي غَيْرِ إِسْرَافٍ وَلَا مَخِيلَةٍ” [رواه أحمد].

 يوجهنا هذا الحديث الشريف إلى تحقيق التوازن في استهلاكنا، فالإسلام يحث على الكرم والتصدق، لكنه في الوقت ذاته يدعو إلى عدم التبذير والإسراف. 

تتعدد أسباب هدر الطعام خلال شهر رمضان، ومن أبرزها تحضير كميات زائدة من الطعام تفوق احتياجات العائلة، مما يؤدي إلى التخلص من الفائض، إضافة إلى التسرّع في إعداد مائدة الإفطار دون تخطيط مسبق، مما يجعل بعض الأطعمة تتعرض للتلف قبل تناولها. ثم أن العادات الاجتماعية، مثل الولائم الكبيرة، تساهم في زيادة الإسراف بشكل ملحوظ. 

لتجنب هذه الظاهرة، يتحمل الأفراد والمجتمعات مسؤولية الحد من هدر الطعام عبر اتخاذ قرارات واعية على مستوى الأسرة والمجتمع. يمكن تحقيق ذلك من طريق التخطيط الجيد للوجبات، وشراء الكميات المناسبة من المواد الغذائية، وإعادة استخدام الفائض من الطعام بدلًا من رميه. كما يمكن تعزيز ثقافة التبرع بالطعام للمحتاجين في الجمعيات الخيرية التي تعمل على توزيع الطعام على الأسر الفقيرة. 

food wastage in ramadan

إلى تلك إضافة، يمكن تقليل هدر الطعام بتبني ممارسات أكثر استدامة، مثل تخزين الطعام بطريقة صحيحة للحفاظ عليه مدّة أطول، والاستفادة من بقايا الطعام في إعداد وصفات جديدة، فضلًا عن التوعية المجتمعية حول أهمية الحفاظ على الموارد الغذائية. 

في نهاية المطاف، يعد تقليل هدر الطعام سلوكًا نبيلًا يفضح القيم الإسلامية، ويساهم في تحقيق العدالة الاجتماعية بواسطة مساعدة الفقراء والمحتاجين. ثم أن تقليل الإسراف في الطعام يساعد في الحفاظ على الموارد الطبيعية وحماية البيئة من أضرار النفايات الغذائية. لذا، فإن تبني عادات غذائية مسؤولة خلال رمضان يعد خطوة مهمة نحو تحقيق الاستدامة والتكافل الاجتماعي.

الأكياس البلاستيكية – مشكلة العصر

By | | , , ,
2 Comments

الجميع ينشد التحضر ويعبر عن رغبته في توفير متطلبات العيش في بيئة نظيفة وصحية، لكن غالبية المكون الاجتماعي تسلك طريق مغاير لذلك الهدف البيئي والانساني، إذ يعمل الكثير من الافراد في تبني سلوك يتعارض مع ذلك المنهج والمعنى الحضاري، ومن المظاهر السلبية التي إستوقفتنا في هذا السياق والتي يعتبرها البعض ثقافة وحضارة، الاستخدام غير الرشيد للأكياس البلاستيكية، وبالاخص الخفيفة منها التي تجد طريقها الى الساحات العامة والشوارع والممرات وتأخذ في التطاير وتشويه المنظر الجمالي للقرية والمدينة، إذ نجدها معلقة بكثرة على أغصان الاشجار وإعلانات واجهات المتاجر والاسلاك على إختلاف أنواعها، ومتناثرة في الحدائق العامة وعلى شواطئ البحر وفي المياه البحرية وأماكن الراحة والاستجمام والمواقع ذات الاهمية السياحية والحضارية في البحرين.

السؤال الاشكالي الذي يؤكد حضوره في المعالجات والحوارات الرسمية والأهلية الموجهة في بحث مقومات بناء خطة للعمل الاستراتيجي التي يمكن أن تؤسس في تبني منهج فاعل في مواجهة هذه الظاهرة غير الحضارية، كيف يمكن الحد من هذه الظاهرة.؟ والتمكن في تغيير السلوك الاجتماعي وتحفيز المجتمع في تبني ثقافة الاستخدام الرشيد للاكياس البلاستيكية.؟ بيد أنه ما هو أكثر أهمية في هذا الشأن، كيف يمكن بناء الوعي الاجتماعي في عدم إستخدام الاكياس البلاستيكية في التسوق.؟ كما أنه كيف يمكن تغيير العادات الاجتماعية، وأن نجد بديلا عن أستخدام الاكياس البلاستيكية في أنشطة التسوق.؟ وما هو مسؤولية المؤسسة الرسمية في بناء المنهج الصائب المؤسس في إتجاهاته لتغيير الحالة المشهودة والحد من الآثار السلبية لهذه الظاهرة.؟

الحراك الاجتماعي البيئي تبنى أنشطة متنوعة الاهداف والوسائل التوعوية لنشر ثقافة الاستهلاك الرشيد للأكياس البلاستيكية، والتوعية بمخاطرها الصحية والبيئية، والمساهمة الفاعلة في تنظيم حملات النظافة التي صارات من الظواهر الحضارية المميزة للمجموعات البيئية التي نشطت دون إستثناء في العديد من المواقع، إذ وجدنا حضورها المسؤول في تنظيف السواحل والحدائق العامة والمقابر والمواقع السكنية والشوارع والاماكن السياحية والاستراتيجية في المملكة، وبرزت في سياق الانشطة البيئية مجموعة نظفوا البحرين، وفريق إثار لحماية البيئة البحرية، ومجموعة دعوا الطبيعة تتكلم وجوالة المالجية، وبرغم التفاوت في حجم الأنشطة وفاعليتها يبقى أن هناك جهد مجتمعي موجه في أهدافه، بيد أنه برغم ذلك الجهد ظاهرت التلوث بالاكياس البلاستيكية آخذ في التصاعد ولم نشهد تغير ملموس في السلوك الاجتماعي البيئي، وذلك يجعل المجموعات البيئية تتسائل أين يكمن الخلل.؟ وما الذي ينبغي فعله لتغيير الحالة غير المرضية.؟

plastic-bags-middle-east

نشطاء العمل الاجتماعي البيئي في سياق معالجتهم واقع المشكلة والبحث عن متطلبات الحل جميعهم يتفق على ضرورة العمل على بناء خريطة الطريق في شأن الحد من مشكلة التلوث بالاكياس البلاستيكية، ترتكز على الثوابت القانونية والادارية والرقابية والتنظيمية والتوعوية والشراكة المجتمعية لبناء ثقافة المسؤولية الاجتماعية والسلوك الإجتماعي في الحد من ظاهرة إنتشار الاكياس البلاستيكية، ونعتقد إنه ينبغي وضع حدود لمستوى استخدام الاكياس البلاستيكية في المتاجر والفرشات، والتدرج في التقليل من انتاجها، وفي السياق ذاته من المفيد أيضاً الاستفادة من قدرات المجموعات البيئية في إعتماد قانون الرقابة الاجتماعية للبيئة، يجري بالارتكاز على آلياته القانونية تشكيل مجموعة تطوعية لمعاونة المؤسسة الرسمية في الرقابة ومكافحة الانشطة التي تتسبب في الاضرار بنظم البيئات الطبيعية والاخلال بقوانين النظافة العامة.

How Water-Saving Construction Can Future-Proof the Middle East Against Climate Change

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

Water is one of the most precious resources in the Middle East’s arid environment. However, conserving this commodity is becoming increasingly challenging amid the region’s rapid population growth, urban sprawl and rising industrialization. Even more concerning is the necessity of water as it grows scarcer by the day due to climate change.

Fortunately, technological advances and emerging construction practices create a path toward water resilience in Middle Eastern countries, particularly in bustling cities like Dubai, Mashhad and Cairo.

water conservation in middle east

Water Challenges in the Middle East

Decades of poor water management and the growing threat of climate change across the Middle East have dried up waterways, leaving populations struggling to access clean water supplies.

According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, every Middle Eastern and North African country will be under extremely high water stress by 2050. In fact, if regional temperatures rise by 4 degrees Celsius, freshwater availability will decrease by 75% — currently, temperatures are expected to exceed the predicted increase.

As of 2024, the World Population Review says there are 500,338,520 people in the Middle East, representing 6.25% of the global population. While the growth rate will begin to wane slightly through 2050, lower mortality and steady birth rates due to modern medicine and improved sanitation will retain the population’s increasing pressure on water supplies.

Over-extraction of groundwater, industrial pollution, urban runoff and fluctuating precipitation patterns already pose significant challenges to mitigating the water crisis. As a result, the public faces considerable health predicaments, contamination, hindered agricultural productivity, strains on existing water infrastructure, resource conflicts and biodiversity loss.

5 Water-Saving Projects for a Climate-Resilient Region

Communities across the Middle East have recognized the importance of water-saving construction to future-proof the region against climate change. Your life depends on it even more as drier, hotter conditions and flooding make clean water resources harder to come by worldwide.

Here are five water conservation construction initiatives happening now throughout the Middle East.

1. Retention Ponds

You may be surprised to learn that parts of the Middle East — like Lebanon’s mountain region and northern Iran near the Caspian Sea — experience higher precipitation than most. As climate change alters weather patterns, many Middle Eastern areas cannot mitigate excess rainfall.

Retention ponds capture and store stormwater runoff, helping to control the flow of water from heavy rain and prevent flood events. These ponds — usually 3-9 feet deep or sometimes deeper — hold the water and release it into the ground slowly.

Cairo, Egypt, has begun experimenting with retention ponds to address excess stormwater. These ponds provide a more affordable option than underground tanks, allowing the city to collect and reuse the water for landscaping. According to one study, one storm produces six days’ worth of water for irrigation to mitigate moisture loss from evaporation.

2. Irrigation Systems

Saudi Arabia is approximately 38% desert land, threatening its booming agricultural market. It receives just four inches of rain annually and has among the lowest precipitation rates. Yet, many of your favorite fresh vegetables, fruits, wheat and dairy products may come from there. Saudi Arabia is also a major exporter of dates, dairy, eggs, fish and poultry.

The country is trying to build a more sustainable agricultural infrastructure by incorporating water-saving irrigation systems. One method that has shown excellent results is subsurface-regulated deficit irrigation, particularly for open-field-grown cucumbers.

efficient irrigation methods

Spray irrigation has higher efficiency than traditional methods.

Subsurface-regulated deficit irrigation is a controlled water-releasing technique in which irrigation is applied just below the soil surface. This approach uses less water than the crop typically requires, placing slight stress on the plants to enhance water use efficiency — based on the crop’s growth stage — and still maintain yields.

3. Water-Conserving Fixtures

Did you know that the United States uses 444,300,000,000 liters of water annually, making it the third-highest water-consuming country globally? Your household alone could waste 10,000 gallons each year.

Green building is gaining momentum worldwide as cities strive for resilience and sustainability to combat climate change. In Dubai, the Green Buildings Regulations and Specification project mandates all government buildings — and private ones voluntarily — include energy-efficient designs and materials.

There’s also been a push to get buildings certified with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) designation. These buildings often implement innovative technology, efficient HVAC systems, low-energy lighting, green roofs and water-saving fixtures.

The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry has maintained LEED certification since 2013 and recycles water for flushing toilets. The system decreases potable desalinized water use by 69% annually, allowing the building to save 1.1 million imperial gallons per year — over 1,321,044 U.S. gallons.

4. Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is another catchment system in the Middle East that captures and stores rainwater for various purposes. Under this approach, heavy rainwater flows from rooftop gutters and downspouts into a storage tank.

Due to the area’s dry climate and limited freshwater availability, advanced rainwater harvesting technologies and methods could help supplement resources for landscaping, irrigation and non-drinkable uses.

why rainwater harvesting

In Mashhad — Iran’s second-largest city — precipitation is scarce during the hot and dry seasons, increasing the need to relieve pressure on drinking water supplies. Sounder storm and water management are needed in the city, as well as finding external water sources for non-potable needs.

In one study, Mashhad harvested enough water from roof catchment systems and urban surfaces for agricultural and environmental uses. However, disinfection and maximum filtration are required to improve water’s chemical and microbiological quality for human and animal consumption.

5. Greywater Recycling

Greywater recycling is treating and reusing wastewater from non-toilet household fixtures. For instance, if you wash the dishes, shower or do the laundry, the water will flow through a filtration system to remove impurities and be reused for irrigation, flushing and landscaping. Research shows you can save 50% to 80% of water by reusing greywater at home.

Saudi Arabia’s government hopes to achieve complete wastewater recycling by 2040. So far, 36.9% of males and 31.7% of females favor using treated greywater for laundering. Only 11.6% of males and 12.1% of females feel the same about using it for bathing.

greywater recycling

Water Resilience Depends on Innovative Infrastructure

The Middle East has no time to spare to future-proof its water supplies. As one of Earth’s hottest and driest regions, nations must turn to innovative water-saving construction to collect and reuse what they can to bolster municipal water management systems.

Solid Waste Management in Kuwait

By | | , ,
1 Comment

climate-change-KuwaitWith rapid economic growth, solid waste generation is increasing rapidly in Kuwait. Presently, Kuwait is facing serious challenges in solid waste management sector. which is grossly affecting the environmental, economic and social situation in the country in addition to precipitating climate change.

The World Bank noted that Kuwait has a very high per capita waste generation of 1.55 kg per day, much higher than the global per capita average of 0.74 kg per day. The predominant solid waste disposal method in Kuwait is landfill burial which act as dumpsites without considering environmental and safety precautions.

The land area of Kuwait is 17,820 sq km, out of which 45 sq km is inhibited by landfill cum dumpsites and is expected to increase to 60 sq km  by 2025. Kuwait has 18 landfills; 14 sites are closed and 4 are still in operation.  The area of the landfill dumpsites is between 10-100 of hectares and 3-30 meters in deposition depth. All kind of wastes are being dumped in these sites including food waste, industrial waste, construction waste and household waste.

Waste Generation Trends in Kuwait

Over the years, most of the dumpsites in Kuwait have been surrounded by residential and commercial areas due to urban development over the years. Residential areas that are close to closed landfill sites include Sulaibiyah, Kabed, Al Qurain, Shuaiba, Jleeb Al Shuyoukh, West Yarmouk and Al Wafra.

Most of the landfill sites were closed due to poorly trained staff and improper disposal methods which caused fires, groundwater contamination, public health concerns and environmental hazards. Many lives of residential people were endangered due to the spread of toxic gases such as methane and carbon dioxide and spontaneous fires.

Environmental and Health Impacts of Asbestos

By | | , ,
3 Comments

Asbestos is an infamous building and construction material that gained popularity in the 20th century due to its fire-resistant properties. Asbestos’ first commercial mine was opened in 1879 in Quebec province, Canada. It took several years of production and consumption of this material in several parts of the world before its health and environmental hazards were discovered. Australia was one of the heaviest global consumers of asbestos in the 1980s with most of the materials being imported into the country from Canada and South Africa.

Asbestos-Middle-East

The use of the material didn’t stop until a national ban was announced on December 31st 2003. Since January 2004, it was illegal to sell, buy, install, store or import asbestos.

Common Uses of Asbestos

Before the ban, this material was mainly used:

  • Guttering, roofing and flexible building boards
  • Cement sheeting- fibro
  • Drainage and flue pipes
  • Brakes, gaskets and clutches

Risk Levels

Asbestos fibres can either be bonded or loose. If the material is bonded and in good condition, it poses little health risks but once it’s loose and broken- the risks escalate. Asbestos fibres normally disorient when damaged, mishandled or due to the wear and tear factors after continuous use.

When the material is used in cement sheeting, they are normally bonded and more stable. In materials such as pipe lagging & sprayed roof insulation, the fibers aren’t bound in a stable matrix hence when they are disturbed, they are more likely to be released into the atmosphere.

Environmental and Health Effects of Asbestos

Loose fibers normally fall off buildings, settling on objects and other floating in the air. With time, these fibers get into water bodies contaminating them and causing health hazards both to animals and humans. Long-term and unsafe exposure to asbestos has a number of well-documented health effects. The fibers are tiny and light, hence easily inhaled and carried into the lower regions of the lungs causing respiratory problems.

Apart from causing fibrotic lung disease (asbestosis), it leads to irritation of the lungs and chest cavity. Such irritations have been linked to deadly conditions such as mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the tissues lining the chest cavity. All these diseases lead to reduced respiratory functions and increased the resistance of blood flow via the lungs, causing enlargement of the heart and eventually, death.

Occupations That Leads To Asbestos Exposure

Major concerns on exposure to the toxic fibers occur within the following workplaces and processes:

  • Mining and processing of asbestos
  • Construction industries distributing building materials made of asbestos
  • Mechanics handling vehicle brakes and clutch repairs
  • Contractors/workers working on buildings made of deteriorating asbestos material
  • Roofing experts, pipe fitters and plumbers
  • Cement workers

More often, effects worsen with exposure to a higher concentration of the material, being in contact more often or/and being exposed for long periods of time. Given the long period it took to link asbestos exposure to any type of cancer, several people developed the condition unknowingly and many cases are now showing up. Over recent years, the World Health Organization classified asbestos as a carcinogen and affected individuals who were exposed to the material through an occupational setting were awarded compensations.

Other countries who were the first to link asbestos to some kind of health conditions did their research, but couldn’t clearly prove that the material causes cancer. Some of the first reports showed that occupational exposure results in asbestosis and pulmonary fibrosis. The role of the material in various diseases was later established and its use was discontinued, but the effects still remain.

Measures Used by the Government

A report published in November 2017 by the Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency showed that several Australian bodies have pulled their resources to cut on the cases of Asbestos-Related Diseases (ARDs). In the report, the Do-It-Yourself home renovators were identified to be the group at high risk of exposure in the residential sector in Australia.

From the years 2014-2018, the Australian government endorsed a National Strategic Plan for Asbestos management & awareness. This was followed by several measures and programs to facilitate the removal of asbestos in various built environment within the country. With such initiatives in place, several companies and stakeholders are working towards educating the public concerning the environmental impact of the material.

AlertForce, for example, is currently offering Asbestos Awareness Training online for free but there is a maximum of 5 people per company allowed. This not only equips professionals with hands-on-skills on how to handle asbestos during renovations and removal but also contribute to the effective prevention of ARDs.

Asbestos Removal

Any asbestos-containing material should be removed only by a qualified and licensed professional. According to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), removal of loose fibers or bonded sheeting greater than 10 square meters must be done by an accredited asbestos removal professional. To ensure that the process is done with strict adherence to safety procedures, DIY services are strictly prohibited.

Some of the short-term precautions given to homeowners or workers to minimize exposure to the toxic material include:

  • Spraying loose fibers with water to prevent them from becoming airborne
  • Preventing access to affected sites by children and pets
  • Covering asbestos parts with a tarpaulin or plastic sheeting to avoid direct exposure to adverse weather conditions
  • Use of wet cleanup procedures instead of transitional vacuuming or dry sweeping

To avoid further risks of exposure to asbestos, people who are likely to come in contact with the material are advised to take extra precaution measures. If one must enter areas contaminated with dust containing asbestos, the use of an appropriate Australian Standards (AS) approved dust mask or respirator is recommended.