What Makes a Good Essay and How Can You Get Started?

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Writing a great essay is not as difficult as it seems. With the right tips and guidance, anyone can create a well-crafted piece of writing that can impress any reader. This guide will provide you with essential tips on how to write an essay that will help you get started on your journey to becoming an excellent essay writer.

how to write better essays in college

Writing essays can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little practice and dedication, you can become a great essay writer. By understanding the basics of grammar and composition, developing strong research skills, and honing your writing style, you can craft compelling essays that will impress your readers. Through hard work and dedication, you too can become a great essay writer.

The Basics of Essay Writing

Writing an essay can be a daunting task, especially if you are unfamiliar with the structure and basic elements of an essay. However, understanding the basics of essay writing can help make it much easier to craft a well-structured argumentative or academic essay. This article will explore the various aspects of essay structure, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Additionally, we will discuss the different types of essays and how to effectively use evidence to support your arguments. With this knowledge in hand, you will be able to confidently write any type of essay with ease.

Writing an essay can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the help of modern AI writing assistants, you can create a compelling essay with ease. These tools are designed to understand the structure of language and generate high-quality content quickly, allowing you to confidently tackle any type of essay without breaking a sweat.

Brainstorming and Pre-Writing Your Essay

Writing an essay can be a daunting task, but with the right approach it can be much easier. Brainstorming and pre-writing are two essential steps that will help you get started on your essay. Brainstorming will help you come up with ideas for your essay, while pre-writing activities such as outlining and freewriting will help you organize those ideas into a coherent structure.

how to write a great college essay

In this article, we will discuss some useful tips for brainstorming and pre-writing your essay so that you can start writing with confidence:

  • Create a list of topics to explore: Make a list of possible topics you can cover in your essay. Consider your interests, personal experiences, and things you are passionate about.
  • Free-write: Start writing without worrying about grammar, spelling, or punctuation. Use this time to explore the ideas you’ve brainstormed and see where they lead you.
  • Brainstorm with others: Talk to people who know you well and get their help in brainstorming topics and ideas to write about.
  • Take notes: Write down any interesting ideas that can be used to create compelling and engaging content for a variety of audiences, and explore new methods for utilizing AI copywriting assistants in a professional setting.

online paper writer

Crafting a Thesis Statement and Introducing Your Argument

Crafting a thesis statement is one of the most important steps in writing a research paper. It is the central point around which the entire paper revolves and sets the tone for your argument. A strong thesis statement can help you make an argument in your essay and provide readers with a clear direction for what you are trying to prove or argue.

In this article, we will discuss how to craft a thesis statement, provide examples of research paper thesis statements, and explain how to make an argument in an essay. By understanding these concepts, you will be better equipped to write a successful research paper or essay.

Research writing can be a daunting task, but with the help of AI writing assistants, it doesn’t have to be. AI writers are equipped to provide students with the tools they need to write a successful research paper or essay. They can generate original content quickly and easily, allowing students to focus on their research and make sure their work is of high quality.

Developing Body Paragraphs with Evidence and Analysis

Writing body paragraphs with evidence and analysis is an essential part of any essay. It is the part where you can show your knowledge, understanding, and critical thinking skills. To do this effectively, you need to incorporate evidence from reliable sources and then analyze it critically to make your point.

Methane Emissions from Anaerobic Degradation of Organic Matter and Mitigation through Flaring

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Methane (CH₄) is a key product of the anaerobic degradation of organic waste and represents one of the most critical environmental challenges associated with waste management systems, particularly landfills and controlled disposal sites. The formation, emission, and mitigation of methane from such systems have been extensively studied due to its high global warming potential and its significant contribution to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. This work provides a comprehensive discussion of methane generation through anaerobic degradation processes and evaluates mitigation strategies, with a particular focus on flaring, which converts methane into carbon dioxide (CO₂), thereby reducing its climate impact.

The biodegradation of organic waste in natural and engineered environments such as landfills occurs through a sequence of microbiological processes governed by oxygen availability. Initially, freshly deposited waste undergoes an aerobic phase during which oxygen is consumed by microorganisms. As oxygen becomes depleted, the system transitions into anaerobic conditions, which favor the development of specific microbial consortia responsible for the breakdown of complex organic substrates [1].

organic waste

Under anaerobic conditions, organic matter such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids is progressively decomposed through a series of biochemical stages: hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis, and finally methanogenesis. Methanogenesis is the terminal step in this process and is carried out by methanogenic archaea that convert intermediate products such as acetate, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide into methane [2].

The overall biochemical reactions can be summarized as follows: complex organic matter is hydrolyzed into simpler molecules, which are fermented into volatile fatty acids and subsequently converted into methane and carbon dioxide. The resulting gas mixture, commonly referred to as landfill gas, typically contains approximately 50–60% methane and 40–50% carbon dioxide, along with trace amounts of other gases [3].

The production of methane in landfills is influenced by multiple factors, including waste composition, moisture content, temperature, pH, and landfill management practices. High organic content, adequate moisture, and mesophilic to thermophilic temperature ranges favor methanogenesis, whereas unfavorable environmental conditions can limit microbial activity and reduce methane yields [4].

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential approximately 28 times greater than that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year time horizon, and up to 84 times greater over a 20-year period [1]. This high radiative forcing makes methane a critical target for climate change mitigation strategies.

Landfills are among the largest anthropogenic sources of methane emissions, contributing roughly 10–12% of global methane emissions [5]. These emissions result from the continuous anaerobic degradation of organic waste over extended periods, often spanning decades.

In addition to its direct contribution to global warming, methane plays a role in atmospheric chemistry, including the formation of tropospheric ozone, which is harmful to human health and vegetation. Furthermore, methane has a relatively short atmospheric lifetime (approximately 10–12 years), meaning that reductions in methane emissions can yield rapid climate benefits compared to carbon dioxide mitigation [1].

The environmental impact of methane emissions from landfills is compounded by the increasing global generation of municipal solid waste. With waste production expected to grow significantly in the coming decades, methane emissions from landfills are projected to rise unless effective mitigation measures are implemented [1].

Methane generation in landfills follows a temporal evolution characterized by distinct phases. After the initial aerobic stage, the anaerobic acid phase leads to the accumulation of organic acids and a decrease in pH. This is followed by a phase of rapid methanogenesis, during which methane production reaches its peak. Subsequently, methane generation declines as biodegradable substrates are depleted, and the system eventually stabilizes [1].

The transport and emission of methane from landfills are governed by complex interactions between production, oxidation, and physical transport processes. Methane can migrate through the waste matrix and escape into the atmosphere via diffusion, advection, or through cracks and fissures in the landfill cover [6].

Not all produced methane is emitted. A portion can be oxidized by methanotrophic bacteria in the landfill cover soils, converting methane into carbon dioxide before it reaches the atmosphere. However, this natural mitigation mechanism is often insufficient to offset the large quantities of methane generated [7].

Given the significant environmental impact of methane emissions, various mitigation strategies have been developed to reduce emissions from landfills. These strategies can be broadly categorized into waste reduction, gas capture, biological oxidation, and thermal destruction [3].

Reducing the amount of biodegradable organic waste entering landfills is one of the most effective long-term strategies. This can be achieved through waste segregation, composting, and anaerobic digestion in controlled facilities. However, such measures require substantial infrastructure and behavioral changes and may not be immediately feasible in all regions [3].

Landfill gas capture systems represent a widely implemented approach to methane mitigation. These systems consist of a network of wells and pipes that collect the gas generated within the landfill. The collected gas can either be used as an energy source or treated to reduce its environmental impact [4].

Biological oxidation systems, such as bio-covers and biofilters, enhance the activity of methanotrophic bacteria to convert methane into carbon dioxide. While effective under certain conditions, these systems are generally used as complementary measures rather than primary mitigation solutions [7].

Flaring is one of the most widely used and effective methods for mitigating methane emissions from landfills, particularly when energy recovery is not feasible. This process involves the controlled combustion of methane, converting it into carbon dioxide and water vapor. Although this reaction produces carbon dioxide, which is itself a greenhouse gas, the overall climate impact is significantly reduced because carbon dioxide has a much lower global warming potential than methane. As a result, flaring can reduce the greenhouse effect of methane emissions by more than 96% [8].

Flaring systems are typically classified into three main types : open flares, enclosed flares, and thermal oxidizers. Open flares are simple and cost-effective but offer less control over combustion conditions. Enclosed flares provide better control and can achieve destruction efficiencies exceeding 99%, while thermal oxidizers operate at higher temperatures for stricter emission requirements [8].

The effectiveness of flaring depends on several factors, including the efficiency of gas collection systems, the composition of the landfill gas, and operational conditions. In well-designed systems, methane capture efficiencies can range from 35% to 90%, while flaring destruction efficiencies can exceed 99% for enclosed systems [8].

While flaring significantly reduces the climate impact of methane emissions, it is not without environmental drawbacks. The combustion process can produce additional pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter, which may affect local air quality [8].

Furthermore, large-scale flaring activities contribute to carbon dioxide emissions, highlighting the importance of optimizing flaring practices and exploring alternative uses of captured methane, such as energy recovery when feasible [8].

A concrete example of methane mitigation through flaring can be found in controlled landfill sites in countries where regulatory frameworks for waste-to-energy remain underdeveloped. In such contexts, landfill gas is collected through a network of vertical wells and horizontal drains and directed toward enclosed flaring units. In several engineered landfills, methane generated from the anaerobic degradation of municipal solid waste is captured but not valorized energetically due to the absence of clear regulations governing grid injection, power purchase agreements, or financial incentives for renewable energy derived from waste.

alghabawi landfill

In addition, even where partial regulatory elements may exist, electricity generation from landfill gas is often not cost-effective due to high capital and operational costs, relatively low and variable gas yields, and limited market incentives. As a result, the collected methane is systematically flared. This practice allows operators to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by converting methane into carbon dioxide, while ensuring compliance with environmental protection requirements. Although the energy potential of the gas is not exploited, flaring provides an immediate, technically feasible, and cost-effective mitigation measure in the absence of a fully supportive regulatory and economic framework.

Despite these drawbacks, flaring remains a critical interim solution, particularly in regions where infrastructure for methane utilization is lacking. By converting methane into carbon dioxide, flaring provides an immediate and substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

Bottom Line

The management of methane emissions from anaerobic degradation of organic matter requires an integrated approach that combines multiple strategies. Advances in landfill design, gas collection technologies, and monitoring systems can enhance methane capture and reduce emissions. In addition, the development of waste-to-energy technologies offers opportunities to utilize methane as a renewable energy source, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and providing economic benefits. Policy and regulatory frameworks also play a crucial role in promoting methane mitigation by incentivizing gas capture and utilization.

Methane generation from the anaerobic degradation of organic matter is a fundamental process in waste management systems, particularly in landfills. While this process is a natural consequence of microbial activity, it poses significant environmental challenges due to the high global warming potential of methane. Mitigation strategies, especially gas capture and flaring, play a crucial role in reducing methane emissions. Flaring, by converting methane into carbon dioxide, offers an effective and widely applicable solution, achieving high destruction efficiencies and substantially lowering the climate impact of landfill emissions. However, long-term solutions require a comprehensive approach that combines technological, regulatory, and behavioral measures to minimize organic waste disposal and enhance methane recovery and utilization.

References

[1] Grégoire, D. S., George, N. A., & Hug, L. A. (2023). Microbial methane cycling in a landfill on a decadal time scale. Nature Communications, 14, 7402.

[2] Citrasari, N., Rachman, I., & Matsumoto, T. (2025). Sustainable methane emission reduction from landfills: The role of capture and flaring technologies. Journal of Sustainable Chemistry and Engineering.

[3] Tong, H., Cheng, T., Li, X., et al. (2025). Reduction of methane emissions through improved landfill management. Nature Climate Change, 15, 866–872.

[5] Quantifying methane emissions from landfilled food waste — U.S. EPA report (2024).

[6] Scharff, H., Soon, H.-Y., Taremwa, S. R., et al. (2024). The impact of landfill management approaches on methane emissions. Waste Management & Research, 42(11), 1052–1064.

[7] Zhang, C., Xu, T., Feng, H., & Chen, S. (2019). Greenhouse gas emissions from landfills: A review and bibliometric analysis. Sustainability, 11(8), 2282.

[8]RMI (2023). Waste Methane 101: Driving emissions reductions from landfills.

Water-Food-Energy-Ecosystems Nexus in MENA: Role of Startups and Entrepreneurship

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The MENA region stands at the intersection of some of the most acute resource challenges globally. Water scarcity, energy dependency, food insecurity, and ecosystem degradation are not isolated crises; they are deeply interconnected, reinforcing one another in complex and often unpredictable ways. The Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus has emerged as a conceptual and operational framework to address these interdependencies, promoting integrated resource management and cross-sectoral coordination. Yet, despite its conceptual maturity and policy recognition, the WEFE Nexus in MENA remains largely under-implemented. The missing link is not knowledge, nor policy ambition, it is execution. Increasingly, startups and entrepreneurship are emerging as critical enablers capable of bridging this gap between theory and practice.

water energy food ecosystem nexus

The WEFE Nexus is grounded in the recognition that water, energy, food, and ecosystems are interdependent systems whose interactions must be managed holistically to ensure sustainability and resilience. Traditional sectoral approaches, which treat these domains independently, have proven insufficient in addressing the cascading impacts of climate change, population growth, and resource depletion. The Mediterranean region, including much of MENA, is considered a global hotspot for climate vulnerability, where declining water availability, rising temperatures, and ecosystem stress threaten long-term socio-economic stability [1]. In this context, the WEFE Nexus offers a framework to optimize synergies, minimize trade-offs, and enhance resource efficiency across sectors.

However, the transition from conceptual frameworks to operational solutions remains a major bottleneck. Institutional fragmentation, siloed governance structures, and rigid financing mechanisms continue to hinder the adoption of integrated approaches. In many countries, water, energy, and agricultural policies are developed and implemented independently, often leading to conflicting objectives and inefficiencies. This fragmentation is reinforced by funding structures that allocate resources along sectoral lines, leaving cross-cutting initiatives without clear ownership or financial support [2] . As a result, the WEFE Nexus often remains confined to academic discourse and pilot projects, with limited large-scale deployment.

At the same time, the urgency of the region’s challenges is intensifying. MENA is the most water-scarce region in the world, with per capita water availability declining steadily over the past decades. Rapid population growth, urbanization, and economic development are increasing demand for water, energy, and food, placing additional pressure on already stressed systems. According to regional analyses, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to water (SDG 6), energy (SDG 7), and food security (SDG 2), is significantly constrained by these structural challenges [3] . Addressing these interconnected issues requires not only integrated policies but also innovative, scalable solutions that can operate across sectors and adapt to local contexts.

This is where startups and entrepreneurship enter the equation, not as peripheral actors, but as central drivers of transformation. Unlike traditional institutions, startups are inherently designed to operate across boundaries, combining technological innovation with flexible business models. In the context of the WEFE Nexus, they are uniquely positioned to develop and deploy solutions that simultaneously address water, energy, and food challenges.

For example, startups in the region are increasingly working on solar-powered irrigation systems, water-efficient agriculture technologies, decentralized desalination units, and circular economy solutions that convert waste into energy or agricultural inputs. These innovations embody the principles of the WEFE Nexus by creating synergies between sectors rather than treating them in isolation.

Evidence from innovation ecosystems in MENA suggests that entrepreneurship is already playing a growing role in advancing nexus-related solutions. A regional study involving startups across nine countries highlights the emergence of social and technological innovations aimed at improving resource efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing resilience in water and food systems [4]. These startups are not only developing new technologies but also experimenting with business models that enable affordability, scalability, and local adaptation. In many cases, they are addressing gaps left by traditional infrastructure and public services, particularly in underserved or remote areas.

Despite this potential, startups in the WEFE space face significant barriers that limit their impact. Access to finance remains one of the most critical challenges, as many investors perceive nexus-related projects as high-risk due to their cross-sectoral nature and long payback periods. Regulatory frameworks are often not adapted to innovative business models, creating additional hurdles for market entry and scaling. Bureaucratic complexity, limited access to data, and weak linkages between research institutions and industry further constrain innovation. These barriers are not unique to the MENA region, but they are particularly pronounced given the institutional and economic context.

To unlock the full potential of startups in advancing the WEFE Nexus, a fundamental shift in the enabling environment is required. First, policy frameworks must evolve from sector-specific approaches to integrated strategies that explicitly support cross-sectoral innovation. This includes the establishment of inter-ministerial coordination mechanisms, the alignment of regulatory frameworks, and the creation of dedicated funding instruments for nexus projects. Blended finance models, combining public, private, and donor funding, have been identified as promising tools to de-risk investments and attract private capital to WEFE initiatives [2]. By addressing financial barriers, such mechanisms can enable startups to move from pilot stages to large-scale deployment.

Second, innovation ecosystems must be strengthened to support entrepreneurship in the WEFE domain. This involves fostering collaboration between universities, research centers, startups, and industry, as well as providing access to incubation, acceleration, and mentorship programs. Knowledge-sharing platforms and communities of practice, such as those developed under regional initiatives, play a crucial role in disseminating best practices and facilitating replication of successful solutions [5]. Capacity-building efforts are also essential to equip entrepreneurs with the technical, managerial, and financial skills needed to navigate the complexities of nexus projects.

solar-powered irrigation

Third, there is a need to rethink the role of public institutions in driving innovation. Rather than acting solely as regulators or service providers, governments can play a catalytic role by creating demand for innovative solutions through public procurement, supporting pilot projects, and facilitating partnerships between startups and established actors. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can serve as effective mechanisms to scale up successful innovations, leveraging the strengths of both sectors. In this context, demonstration projects and living labs are particularly valuable, as they provide real-world environments for testing and validating nexus solutions before wider deployment.

Importantly, the contribution of startups to the WEFE Nexus goes beyond technological innovation. It also involves social innovation, including new ways of organizing production, distribution, and consumption. In many cases, startups are engaging local communities, farmers, and small-scale producers, ensuring that solutions are not only technically viable but also socially acceptable and economically inclusive. This is particularly relevant in the MENA region, where socio-economic disparities and governance challenges require context-specific approaches that go beyond top-down interventions.

However, it would be a mistake to romanticize the role of startups as a silver bullet. Entrepreneurship alone cannot overcome structural challenges such as weak governance, political instability, or inadequate infrastructure. Without supportive policies, access to finance, and institutional coordination, even the most promising innovations will struggle to scale. Moreover, the fragmentation that the WEFE Nexus seeks to overcome can also be replicated within innovation ecosystems if stakeholders operate in isolation. The challenge, therefore, is not only to promote entrepreneurship but to integrate it within a broader systemic approach that aligns incentives, policies, and investments.

The strategic importance of startups in the WEFE Nexus lies in their ability to act as connectors linking sectors, bridging gaps between research and application, and translating abstract concepts into tangible solutions. They bring agility, experimentation, and a willingness to challenge existing paradigms, which are essential for navigating the complexity of interconnected resource systems. In a region where traditional approaches have reached their limits, this capacity for innovation and disruption is not a luxury; it is a necessity.

Bottom Line

Unlocking the WEFE Nexus in MENA requires moving beyond rhetoric and embracing a pragmatic, implementation-oriented approach. This means recognizing that the success of the nexus is not determined by the elegance of its conceptual framework but by its ability to deliver real-world outcomes, improved water efficiency, sustainable energy use, resilient food systems, and restored ecosystems. Startups and entrepreneurship, when supported by the right enabling environment, have the potential to drive this transformation.

The path forward is clear but demanding. It requires coordinated action across multiple levels policy, finance, innovation, and society. It requires breaking down silos, rethinking institutional roles, and embracing new models of collaboration. Above all, it requires a shift in mindset: from viewing the WEFE Nexus as a theoretical construct to treating it as an operational imperative. In this transition, startups are not just participants; they are catalysts. The question is not whether they have a role to play, but whether the region is ready to leverage their potential at scale.

References

[1] MedECC. Climate and Environmental Change in the Mediterranean Basin – WEFE Nexus. 2024.

[2] Rhouma A, Daher B, Vrachioli M, Mohtar R, Gil JM. Financing the Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystem Nexus project. Frontiers in Sustainable Resource Management. 2025;4.

[3] ESCWA. Water Development Report 6: The Water, Energy and Food Security Nexus in the Arab Region. 2015.

[4] Engineering for Change. Water-Energy-Food Nexus Innovations in MENA. 2023.

[5] WEFE4MED. WEFE Nexus Programme in the Mediterranean. 2024.

Going Green to Save Money: The ROI of Green Homes

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For many reasons, green homes are more and more popular, yet eco-friendliness can be a complex topic in the housing market. Of course, the reasons are simple enough: green homes have a smaller footprint through sustainable materials and energy efficiency, so are better for our damaged environment; going green lowers energy costs over time; and going green can increase a home’s market value, bringing Return on Investment to sellers. Yet achieving the ROI of an eco-friendly home can be complicated, because it depends on a number of factors, including location, the age of the home, and how soon the owner is listing.

In the last few years, two home-buying trends have established themselves. One is that millennials are making up about ⅓ of homebuyers, and the second is that they are willing and eager to embrace the green home. This is not to say that other groups are ignoring the trends, because they are not, but rather to indicate the large number of buyers committed to spending extra for green homes and features, creating ROI.

New construction has the advantage here, as homes are built to green standards. New homes tend to be located in the trending millennial areas, and cutting-edge, move-in ready has its definite appeal. Older homes can be moved towards the green ideal, but the changes can be difficult and costly; however, since not every home buyer, millennial or otherwise, can afford new construction, there are many markets in which any greener home is valued at  2-7% more.

That green ideal is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, or Energy Star certification, for the highest standards in healthy, energy-efficient buildings. The standards are so high, in fact, that an existing home may need to be gutted and rebuilt by an expert to meet them, which may be out of the question for the owner’s time and budget.

Fortunately, there are many green home improvements existing homeowners can still make that will attract buyers and result in return on investment, even without official green certification.

For one, attic insulation is a tried-and-true project that annual reports consistently list for excellent ROI, over 100% ROI, in fact, in 2017. A tankless water heater is a more efficient and attractive feature than an older tank-style version that needs replacing anyway. The Department of Energy points out that a quarter or more of heating/cooling expenses are, literally, sucked away by old windows leaking in both directions; new windows are a major and good-looking  improvement. Transitioning to renewable energy sources can be another source of ROI, if also a huge project, even when there are tax credits and local government grants for the purchase of solar panels.

For any improvement, home location and individual circumstances make a difference, so homeowners should research carefully before any green commitment. The efficacy of solar and wind energy are dependent on local weather conditions. Leased, rather than purchased, solar panels can deter buyers as an added expense, rather than please them. The efficiency of any green change may need to factor in how long the current owners will reap financial benefit themselves before selling for that higher price, to make the investment worth it.  These examples illustrate how tricky improvements can be if ROI is one of the goals.

For people selling in the near future, the advice of a top real estate agent is invaluable to making the right ROI choices. They will know which improvements are most desirable and have performed the best in the local market. It is also vital to have a home appraiser knowledgeable in and experienced with green home improvements, which is by no means all of them. Ensure through research that your home for sale is appraised by someone who will recognize and not undervalue its green features.

Plastic Waste Management in UAE

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Plastics are an inseparable part of modern society. However, their safe disposal is a big and highly challenging issue. A typical UAE resident uses 450 plastic water bottles on an average in a single year1. With the equivalent of 43 gallons on an average per person in 2011, the United Arab Emirates had the fourth-highest level of bottled water consumption in the world.

A whopping 11 billion plastic bags are used annually, according to statistics from UAE’s Ministry of Environment and Water. This goes on to add up to an annual overall waste of 912.5 kilogram per capita2, 3, and 4. These statistics reflect on the extent of use of plastic bags and water bottles in UAE and the consequent generation of plastic waste.

plastic-water-bottles-middle-east

Plastics are used globally in industries like packaging, construction and medical equipment among others. This is because plastics are durable, water-proof, lightweight and versatile. However, some countries use them more than others due to certain socio-economic factors. UAE has witnessed rapid growth in the last decade or so. This has been in terms of population as well as GDP per capita, both of which have more than doubled in this period5.

The above two factors result in higher consumer spending. Moreover, the latter translates to greater importance, given to ‘convenience and hygienic shopping’ resulting in higher demand for plastics in packaging and shopping.

All this consequently leads to increased waste generation. From the supply side also, plastic manufacture (for all purposes including packaging) is a booming industry in UAE and rest of Gulf, one factor for it being abundance of petrochemicals, the raw material for plastics, in this region6.

Had it not been for the damage caused by plastic waste to environment and human health, trend of increasing use of plastics would have been acceptable. However, since waste is being generated at a dangerous rate and its management has become a critical challenge, a reality-check is called for.

Plastics can take as much as thousands of years to degrade. Till then, they take precious space in landfills, are eaten up by unsuspecting animals and birds leading to their death or end up in sea, accumulated in certain areas called ‘gyres’.

marine-waste

 

While in landfills, plastics emit harmful greenhouse gases, which lead to ‘global warming’. This is apart from plastic waste being an eye-sore and civic menace. When in open areas, animals ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for food. Estimates suggest that 50 percent of the camels that die every year in the UAE die from ingesting them which can lead to massive calcified balls of plastic in the stomachs that eventually kill the animals.

The ultimate destination of this waste is ocean. Plastics and Styrofoam (used in disposable cups and plates) comprise 90% of the floating debris in oceans. Marine animals and birds are killed by entanglement or ingestion7, 8, 9 and 10. Further, plastic manufacture is an input-intensive process, using significant amounts of oil, water and power.

Realizing the flip-side of high use of plastics, UAE has initiated definitive corrective measures. The Ministry of Environment and Water has reported that it will ban circulation and marketing of non-biodegradable plastic products in UAE from early next year11. In that direction, Dubai Municipality have launched a “Say No to Plastic Bags” campaign starting May 2013 targeting a 20 per cent reduction in the estimated 2.9 billion plastic bags used annually in the emirate, by the end of this year. This is to be done by means of creating consumer-awareness and offering reusable and recyclable alternatives like jute and paper bags in major supermarkets12.

In Sharjah, a private company, in partnership with Sharjah Municipality, is working towards a 100% landfill diversion target set for the Emirate of Sharjah by the end of the first quarter of 201513. This is being done through development of waste management infrastructure on one hand and community education of the importance of environment principle of 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

The Government of Abu Dhabi has established ‘The Center for Waste Management’ (CWM) to control and coordinate all activities related to sustainable waste management. Several non-government organisations as well as community groups are also working towards the goal of better plastic waste management in UAE.

References

(4) Bee’ah. (2010). Sustainability Report 2010. Retrieved May 4, 2013, from Bee’ah-UAE

(5) National Bureau of Statistics UAE. (n.d.). UAE in figures – 2001 and 2009.

(6) Yousef, D. (2011, December 18). Petrol to plastics: Bagging the future. Retrieved May 8, 2013, from GulfNews: https://gulfnews.com/business/general/petrol-to-plastics-bagging-the-future-1.952591

(9) California Coastal Commission. (2012, June 20). Public Education Program. Retrieved May 8, 2013, from https://www.coastal.ca.gov/publiced/marinedebris.html

(10) Science for Environment Policy. (2011, November). Plastic Waste: Ecological and Human Health Impacts. Retrieved May 8, 2013, from https://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/IR1.pdf

نصائح لتحسين نوعية الهواء داخل المباني

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يعتبر تلوث  الهواء الداخلي  واحد من أهم المخاطر البيئية على الصحة العامة في جميع أنحاء العالم ,نظرا لتزايد  عدد من الأمراض المرتبطة  بنوعية  الهواء  داخل  المبنى . وقد وجدت الدراسات أن تركيز الملوثات في الأماكن المغلقة الداخلية  أعلى بكثير مما هي عليه في البيئة الخارجية ، تتراوح  الزيادة  من  مرتين إلي خمس مرات ، وأحيانا مائة مرة أعلى من مستوي  الملوثات في الهواءالطلق. وبما  ان معظم الناس يقضون  80٪ إلى 90٪ من حياتهم في الأماكن المغلقة ، فان  نوعية الهواء الداخلي له اأثر جوهري على الصحة العامة.

indoor air quality

انخفاض جودة الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة يمكن أن يؤثرعلى نوعية الحيا ة  لشاغل المبنى ، وزيادة المخاطر الصحية وزيادة المسؤولية لمالك  البناء ،وانخفاض إنتاجية شاغلي المبني ويقلل من قيمة إعادة البيع له . و سوء نوعية الهواء في الأماكن  المغلقة يمكن أن يسبب “مرض متلازمة البناء “،وهي حالة طبية مرتبطة بسوء الحالة  الصحية والتغيب عن العمل.

وهناك العديد من العوامل المسببة بما هو معروف بمرض متلازمة البناء علي سبيل المثال لا الحصرتصميم المبنى بشكل غيرلائق للغرض منه، وعدم كفاية التهوية ، بعض المكونات المسببة لتواجد المركبات العضوية المتطايرة من الأثاث و السجاد والدهانات ومواد الطلاء و منتجات التنظيف والتنفس مع سوء نوعية الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة .

الجسيمات المحمولة مثل الالياف  الزجاجية اوالغبار ،عث الغبار و العفن والبكتيريا وحبوب اللقاح ووبر الحيوانات يسهم أيضا في سوء نوعية الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة . وهناك مؤشر لتحدد جودة الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة وتشمل مجموع الجسيمات ،مجموع المركبات العضوية المتطايرة ،والفورمالديهايد ،وثاني أكسيد الكربون  (CO2) ، وأول أكسيد الكربون  (CO) ، والأوزون (O3)، درجة حرارة الهواء والرطوبة النسبية  (RH)  .

في منطقة الشرق الأوسط، , معظم الناس يعيشون في بيئات مغلقة ومكيفة الهواء لفترات  طويله. و مع النمو السكاني السريع ،و زيادة عدد المركبات على الطريق ،و ارتفاع  مستوي درجة الحرارة ،وزيادة أنشطة البناء عن  أي وقت مضى ،ووجود عواصف  رملية موسميه  بشكل  دائم , و تركيز ملوثات الهواء في المنطقة هي من بين أعلى المعدلات  في  العالم. ويعكس  جودة  الهواء  في  البيئة الداخلية أيضا نوعية الهواء و التلوث في البيئة الخارجية.

ان نقل الملوثات من الهواء الخارجي  الي  الأماكن المغلقة يمكن أن يؤدي الي تأثيرات صحية خطيرة . وبالإضافة لذلك كالعديد من مصادر الملوثات في الأماكن المغلقة الموجودة في مواد البناء وموا دالتنظيف والعفن الداخلي  للتكيفات  والمعدات ونمو البكتيريا ،والانبعاثات من المفروشات .

نصائح لتحسين جودة الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة

تتأثر نوعية الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة بتركيز ملوثات الهواء في الهواء الخارجي وكذلك مصدر التلوث في الأماكن المغلقة ،كما  ان  سمة البناء وعادات أهل  المكان  له  تاثير علي نسبة الملوثات. ويمكن تصميم بناء مناسب ونظام  تهويه ميكانيكي واستراتيجيات مكافحة وكذلك تغيير السلوك العام  سوف  يؤدي  بدوره  الي تحسين جودة الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة والصحة والراحة والأداء والإنتاجية من شاغلي المبنى. هناك مجموعة من الاستراتيجيات لتحسين جودة الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة  يمكن حصرها  في  التالي :

التصميم المناسب :بناء الغلاف الخارجي ،والتوجه،ومكان لشفط الهواء ،موقع أنظمة التهوية الميكانيكية يمكن أن تسهم في جودة الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة. وبالتالي ،ينبغي النظر في هذه العوامل خلال مرحلة تصميم المشاريع للسيطرة على المصدر الرئيسي للملوثات للمبنى بأكمله.

التهويه  الميكانيكية  لكامل  المبني :تصميم نظام التهوية والذي  يتناسب مع  حجم  المكان  وعدد  الشاغلين  والنشاط القائم  يمكن  ان  يوفر  هواء من الخارج  للداخل  بشكل  مناسب . في معظم أنظمة تصنيف المباني الخضراء ،ويتم اتباع معاييرالصناعة مثل مواصفات ASHRAE 62أو التهوية وجودة الهواء الداخلي المقبولة عموما .

نظام  خلط  الهواء :  استخدام مزيج من أنظمة التهوية الميكانيكية والطبيعية في المباني ،مثل أنظمة التحكم الآلي للنوافذ  والنوافذ قابلة للفتح  و الغلق ، يمكن أن تساعد في الحفاظ على جودة الهواء في الأماكن المغلقة.

إدارة نوعية الهواء خلال مراحل البناء: خلال مرحلة البناء, قد تتولد انواع من العفن بسبب التعرض لمواد البناء مع الرطوبة. الغبار والجسيمات يمكن أن تتراكم بسهولة على مواد البناء إذا لم تكن محمية. نوعية الهواء خلال فترة التشييد يمكن حمايتها من خلال حماية مواد البناء من الغبار والجسيمات والرطوبة بانواع الاغطية المختلفة والتي تناسب كل المركبات باختلاف انواعها.

مرشحات الهواء عالية الكفاءة :فلاتر تمنع انتقال المركبات العضوية المتطايرة في الهواء الخارجي والغبار ،الجسيمات والأوزون الي الداخل.ان استخدام فلتر الجسيمات مثلMERVعالية الترشيح  يمكن  ان  يكون  من المرشحات الأكثر فعالية في تصفية الغبار والجسيمات من الهواء الخارجي الي الداخل.

جدول الصيانة لمعدات التكييف والفلاتر :تراكب الغبار علي فلاتر التنقية يمكن أن يسبب تهيجا  للحساسية . وبالتالي ،جدول الصيانة المناسب والمنتظم يمنع هذ اأن يحدث.

استخدام المواد ذات  الانبعاثات المنخفضة: استخدام المواد التي تحتوي على  مركبات  عضوية  متطايرة بنسب منخفضة مثل السجاد ،مطاط الأرضيات ،مواد الأرضيات والسيراميك والبلاط  و اي مواد مالئة للفراغات الارضية أو مانعات التسرب والمواد اللاصقة الأخرى.  أيضا مواد البناء الداخلية والتي  تحتوي علي مادة الفورمالديهايد  بنسبة منخفضة ,يمكن أن تكون مفيدة  لجودة البيئة الداخلية.

طرد الملوثات من المبني: طرد الملوثات في الأماكن المغلقة اسلوب جيد في المباني قبل الإشغال و يساعد علي استبدال الهواء الداخلي الملوث مع الهواء الخارجي النقي.

برنامج التنظيف الاخضر: اختيار مواد التنظيف والمصنوعة من المواد ذات الانبعاثات المنخفضة وتوظيف برنامج التنظيف الأخضر للحد  من التعرض للانبعاثات.

جهاز مراقبة ثاني أكسيد الكربون: تثبيت اجهزة مراقبة CO2 في نظام التهوية ودمجها لتنظيم إمدادات الهواء النقي وفقا لطلب شاغلي المبنى. وبذلك فانه  بزيادة نسبة ثاني اكسيد الكربون داخل المكان يزيد معدل تدفق الهواء الخارجي .

ترجمه:

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

مدرس التحكم في البيئة والطاقه داخل المباني.

للتواصل عبر hebamosalam2000@gmail.com

Kia and The Waste Lab Partner to Raise Awareness on the Reality of Food Waste

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Kia Corporation partnered with Dubai-based start-up, The Waste Lab, and launched a three-stage GCC based campaign whilst transforming food waste into healthy compost. The partnership, commenced at the start of Ramadan, nudging consumers to rethink their practices and mindset around food wastage.

food waste management

The Waste Lab is a women-led, impact-driven startup based in the UAE, with a mission to reduce and repurpose food waste. Kia has always been an advocate of sustainable mobility solutions. In line with their vision of creating a positive impact on the environment, Kia is facilitating The Waste Lab as part of the collaboration with the Kia Niro Hybrid in the UAE, the Kia K5 Hybrid in Oman, and the Kia K8 Hybrid in Saudi Arabia, as a means of transportation of the food waste into nutrient-rich compost.

What is composting?

Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, under controlled conditions, into a soil amendment. Everything in nature eventually decomposes and goes back into the soil. Composting brings together different players to do this work and speeds up the process. The end product is “compost” – the decomposed organic matter’s rich nutrients that can fertilize and enrich the soil for gardening, landscaping, and agriculture.

What is the process?

Generally, three main stages are involved in composting: first, compost goes through the mesophilic stage, where decomposition speeds up and produces heat. Next is the thermophilic phase, featuring high temperatures and the further breakdown of organic matter. Last is the curing stage, where compost cools and matures. Each of the three composting stages comes with a different team of composting microbes, creatures, unique characteristics, and a specific purpose.

Prior to the composting process, it is important to guide people and target entities on proper waste separation, including organic and non-organic materials, and to make sure only suitable materials are sent for composting. By separating organic waste at source, it can be composted to produce a valuable output that enriches the soil, while non-organic waste can be recycled. The Waste Lab then uses a data tracking a routing system to facilitate the collection process. As a sustainable mobility solutions provider, Kia has been supporting The Waste Lab’s operation, by providing them with hybrid vehicles and aiding in raising awareness around the global-wide issue of food waste.

Compost_Schematic

The second step of composting involves the actual composting process, where the organic waste is transformed into nutrient-rich soil. By maintaining proper carbon to nitrogen ratios, aeration, hydration, and optimal temperatures, compost is created as a soil amendment that can improve the health of the soil and the quality of the produce. This step is one the most significant steps as it ensures, the quality of the compost and its benefits ahead.

The third stage is to ensure the efficient utilization of the compost made. It involves using the finished compost to grow healthy nutrient-rich food. Compost is a great soil supplement that can improve soil health but also reduces the waste generated while growing super-local foods.

composting-food-waste

There are multiple benefits of composting to the overall ecosystem. It reduces the waste in landfills (organic waste accounts for 40% to 60% of landfills) as well as the use of chemical applications. The process also aids in building healthy soil by storing atmospheric C02 and plant nutrients which enhances plant growth and the overall environment around. The composting initiative by The Waste Lab also creates local resources, encouraging food security and a culture that grows home-based plants.

Yaser Shabsogh, Chief Operating Officer, Regional HQ, Middle East & Africa, Kia, commented, “We are excited about our partnership with The Waste Lab and engaging with the community in our collective effort to promote sustainable solutions. Our aim is to generate support from local communities for sustainable initiatives in the region. We aim to shift people’s mindset around food waste and responsible consumption. At Kia, we hold a deep-seated commitment to reducing the carbon footprint and are always trying to pursue innovative means to pursue sustainable solutions. We understand that this commitment has the power to transform our world and bring the cycle of life full circle.”

Lara Hussein and Ceylan Uren, The Waste Lab co-founders also commented: “As we prepare for Ramadan, we often see a surge in excessive buying and discarding of food. However, this time can be used to promote more mindful consumption and sustainability. By emphasizing the advantages of sourcing locally and minimizing food waste, we can raise awareness and promote responsible consumption. Additionally, diverting these precious resources from landfills can have a positive impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting soil health, we believe that this initiative with Kia can be transformative and have a positive impact on our world, and we are excited to bring the community onboard to galvanize support. We are grateful to Kia for lending their support and collaborating on this impactful project.”

Eco-Friendly Pet Ownership – Top Tips to Follow

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This planet is all we have and, unless we start properly looking after it, we can lose everything from ecosystems to all resources, including our most precious – freshwater. However, selective recycling isn’t the only way to reduce pollution and help the planet.

Owning a pet is a great responsibility but also a challenge since most of their accessories and food are made of plastic or packed in it. As one of the most vocal advocates of sustainability in the Middle East, EcoMENA pleads for a more responsible life and wishes to share some easy tips on how to look after the planet while still raising a healthy and happy pet.

Adopt, don’t shop

Although you’ll rarely see stray dogs and cats wandering on the streets of Middle Eastern countries, there is no doubt that many animals are still abandoned by their owners in shelters, because they can no longer provide for them.

animals-islam-arabic

If you want to make Earth a better place, start by adopting a pet that needs love and affection instead of spending small fortunes on pure-breed cats and dogs. Remember that whenever you’re adopting from a shelter, you save a life and you gain a new friend or a family member.

Adopting is an economic-friendly solution for all animal lovers, and we assure you there are plenty of adorable kittens and puppies waiting for their forever home.

Opt for sustainable pet food

We know that you want your best for your pet, and this includes paying extra for organic food but why settle for small packages that only add to the global plastic waste? Choose food brands that are committed to making a positive change, and this includes selling their products in environmentally-friendly and biodegradable packages. Check out Nutra Thrive Cat reviews to find the best nutrition for your pet.

If that’s not possible, another way to reduce waste would be to buy larger quantities. Store the extra food in glass recipients or paper bags, in cool and dry places. This will help preserve the flavor and the taste of the food as months pass by. The same goes for resealable bags that won’t alter the food’s properties.

Also Read: How to Read Pet Food Labels

Bake your own treats

Why spend hundreds of dollars on pet treats and contribute to more waste when you can bake or make your own? Various online tutorials will teach you how to make delicious snacks, step-by-step.

What’s even better is that you can bake tasty recipes with ingredients that you already have at home and use for your regular meals. As long as the ingredients are organic and designed for dog or cat consumption, you can create a wide array of treats for any occasion.

If spending extra time in the kitchen isn’t your thing, you can always adapt your dinner recipes to the needs of your pet. Steaks are a delicious meal for all your family members and, as long as you don’t use any seasoning or sauces for your dog’s piece, you will have its snack ready in a minute.

Cats love tuna and any other type of fish, so make sure to grill one for them. The same goes for poultry, turkey, and any other type of meat. Grilled, baked or steamed meat represents a healthy choice for all your family members, including your pawed friends.

Eco-friendly accessories and grooming products

If you want to reduce plastic waste, you should also consider opting for green and eco-friendly pet grooming products packaged in biodegradable bottles. As for leashes, collars, kennels, and even outfits, why not opt for second-hand products?

Many animal lovers tend to buy all the accessories and products they can find for their pets but don’t end up using more than 20-30% of them. Luckily, there are plenty of online forums and even physical stores where you can shop for unused products at discount prices. Reusing and recycling are two of the main principles for a cleaner world, so why not adopt this lifestyle?

Apart from finding unique accessories and cool new outfits for your pooch, you will also save money and prevent waste

Invest in pet-proof products

Cats, dogs, and ferrets are all wonderful creatures but they can end up tearing your house apart and breaking your most valuable belongings. If you’re serious about adopting a new pet, you must know how to “animal-proof” your house to prevent buying new shoes, clothes, electronics, and accessories every other month.

Keep all your shoes and clothes in the closet, on high shelves where your pet cannot reach them and replace some of your tableware with plates, glasses, and cups made of metal or other strong materials. You should do the same with your trash bin if you don’t want your animals to move it from one place to another and spill all its content on the floor.

New and Larger Wave of Locusts Threaten East Africa and Beyond

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Before the current pandemic that the world is battling, East Africa and neighbouring regions of the globe experienced the biggest locust infestation in the past 70 years. That event was devastating. Then the Covid-19 pandemic started to move across the globe. And just as a viral plague can resurface if adequate measures are not taken and sustained for a long enough period of time to interrupt the spread of the virus, the locusts have returned. The locust plague has reappeared in East Africa and is said to be 20 times the strength of the earlier infestations.

The Fight for Food

Billions of young, hungry locusts are swarming across the continent from their breeding grounds in Somalia. As the summer season is fast approaching, fresh, young vegetation is starting to flourish with the help of the seasonal rains.

Rural people are in a double whammy situation, needing to protect their crops by whatever means are available while the spread of coronavirus is over-shadowing them as well. The fight for food will win out over the fight for prevention of the virus. Its another catch-22 where humanity suffers from infection or dies of starvation. These are impossible situations in which to have to make choices. The most destructive impact obviously wins out.

The nations affected include Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan. The swarms have also been sighted in Djibouti, Eritrea, Tanzania and the Congo.

Village farmers have very limited means of defeating the locusts and driving the swarms off their lands onto neighbouring lands. The farmers even resort to bang metal pots and pans, throwing stones, and whistling and shouting. Others merely watch and stare. Their main crop is a starch-food, cassava that helps ward off the village people from starvation.

The Role of Climate Change

The UN Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) attributes the locust infestations partly due to the change in the regional climate. In other words, climate change. New swarms keep appearing because of the ideal breeding conditions. These favourable conditions could last through May, meaning that more swarms of the locusts could appear during the harvest months, June and July.

To counterattack the locust swarms, the UN is appealing for financial aid to be freed up and made available for combat measures. The young or juvenile locusts are far more voracious that the mature adult locusts. The scientists, satellite information analysts to be precise, at the Nairobi-based Climate Prediction and Application Centre are analyzing satellite imagery.

The Difficult Fight Against Locust Swarms

The ability to fight the swarms with the spraying of pesticide is severely restricted by the Covid-19 regulations that have significant restrictions on travel and delivery of the much needed pesticides. The dilemma is which infestation takes precedence. Field verification of the severity of the locust swarms is also hampered majorly. Overall, the world is stretched to its limits dealing with the global pandemic that other regional plagues are not receiving the attention that they also need in terms of combating the devastating situation.

The extent of these swarms is vast, that aerial top-spraying is the best option but there are border control issues as well as the challenges of securing aerial flight crews and delivery of pesticides via road or air. There is major concern, that the importation of pesticides from suppliers around the globe is also hampered by the interruptions in international cargo shipments during this pandemic.

Bottom Line

The food security in East African nations are seriously threatened by crop devastation, loss of pasture cover used as fodder for livestock and forest cover could also be denuded. The final note of gloom is that these swarms are appearing in regions previously not subjected to locusts.

The solutions are not obvious while the situation is dire for all concerned individuals. Researchers prefer to write on situations and propose solutions or at least recommendations. In this case, nature is proving stronger humankind in its ability, not to control, but even to work with nature.

نصائح لتقليل النفايات الغذائية

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food-waste-arabتبذير الطعام له آثار بيئية واقتصادية وكذلك الاجتماعية.  ارتفاع نصيب الفرد من الدخل والإنفاق، ومستويات المعيشة، القدرة على تحمل التكاليف و اللامبالاة تجاه الطعام كلها عوامل لها تأثير سلبي كبير على مواردنا المحدودة. في مراكز التسوق والمطاعم على سبيل المثال ، من الشائع أن نرى كميات متراكمة من الطعام غير المستهلك كليا أو جزئيا. للأسف، الرفاهية تؤدي إلى تفشي  توليد النفايات الغذائية في جميع أنحاء الشرق الأوسط، وخاصة دول مجلس التعاون الخليجي.

خطورة الوضع يمكن قياسها من كون أن أكثر من 300 طن من النفايات الغذائية يتم توليدها يوميا  في البحرين وهذا يشكل حوالي 11٪ من إجمالي  نفايات البلدية . كل هذه النفايات يتم تفريغها   في حاويات و جمعها من قبل عمال البلدية ونقلها إلى مكب عسكر الواقع على بعد نحو 25 كيلومترا من المدينة.

الناس في الشرق الأوسط يجب أن  تعي  أننا نستورد معظم  المواد الغذائية ,ورميها بلا مبالاة في القمامة غير مقبول بتاتا. تشير التقديرات إلى أن حوالي ربع المواد الغذائية التي يتم شراؤها تتعفن وتجد طريقها إلى سلة المهملات حتى قبل استخدامها أو تناولها.

الناس يميلون إلى شراء أكثر مما يحتاجون أو ما يمكنهم استهلاكه وغالبا ما تترك الوجبات نصف مأكولة، و هذا سلوك غير لائق. ترك الطعام هو عادة سيئة تؤدي إلى المزيد من الهدر حيث أن المواد الغذائية  لا يتم الاستفادة منها بشكل كامل وفعال وينتهي بها المطاف في صناديق القمامة. وبالإضافة إلى ذلك، فإن أكثر  مشاهد هدر الطعام نراها في المأدبات و الولائم (البوفيه)، حيث الخيارات من أطباق كثيرة و الكميات غير محدودة. رد فعلنا أو موقفنا من طعامنا يجب أن  يكون “اخذ فقط ما يمكنك أن تأكل.

ارتفعت تكلفة الأطعمة النيئة و المطبوخة بشكل حاد في السنوات الأخيرة، الامر الذي يشكل عبئا إضافيا على ميزانيات البيوت و أرباب الأسر الذين يرزحون تحت تكاليف أخرى مرتفعة من معيشة وسكن ودواء ونقل الخ.  تجنب تبذير الأطعمة هو مهمتنا  الاولى لنساعد على التقليل من كمية النفايات القابلة للتحلل عضويا الذاهبة إلى صناديق القمامة ومن ثم إلى مكب النفايات. وبالإضافة إلى ذلك،  إذا  قمنا بجمع فضلات الطعام، فإننا سنزيل  جزأ كبيرا من نسبة الفضلات القابلة للتحلل من سلة المهملات. ونحن نعلم أيضا أنه عندما يتم إرسال المواد الغذائية إلى المكب فإنها تنتج المزيد من الغازات المسببة للاحتباس الحراري إثر تحللها.

الوضع الراهن يستدعي تطوير عادات غذائية أفضل و تبني مبدئ “خذ فقط ما يمكن أن تأكل” احتراما للطبيعة . “الحل الاجتماعي والثقافي” يكمن في طريقة ذكية للتعامل مع الطعام تجنبا النفايات. دعونا نتبع النصائح التالية للتقليل من النفايات الغذائية في الشرق الأوسط: اقتني  ما تريده على وجه التحديد وبكميات معقولة.

·   شراء المواد الغذائية وخاصة الفواكه والخضروات بكميات صغيرة حسب الحاجة.

·   الحرص على الاستخدام الأمثل للمواد الغذائية وتناول الطعام اللازم وحتى بقايا الوجبات

·   لا تشعر بالخجل من أخذ/تعبئة بقايا الوجبات في الحفلات فإنه لا يؤثر على ثقتك بنفسك وسمعتك.

·   قم يوميا  بجرد المواد الغذائية الخاصة بك في الثلاجة وفي سلة الفاكهة بحثا عن العناصر التي قد تتعفن أو تنتهي صلاحيتها . استفد منها أو تبرع بها قبل أن تصبح نفايات.

ترجمه للعربية يوسف بنغزواني 

Decentralized Brackish Water Desalination as a Catalyst for Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture

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Water scarcity has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges facing the Mediterranean basin, a region characterized by sharp climatic gradients, demographic pressures, and structural inequalities in resource distribution. Agriculture alone accounts for between 64% and 79% of freshwater withdrawals in many Mediterranean countries, particularly in the southern and eastern shores, where irrigation is essential for food security and rural livelihoods [1]. Climate change is intensifying these pressures through increased frequency of droughts, rising temperatures, and declining precipitation, thereby exacerbating groundwater depletion and salinization [2].

In this context, decentralized brackish water desalination is gaining recognition as a promising pathway to enhance water availability while supporting climate-resilient and resource-efficient agricultural systems. However, the success of such approaches depends not only on technological innovation but also on the capacity to bridge scientific, economic, and institutional gaps between the northern and southern shores of the Mediterranean.

brackish water desalination plant

Brackish water desalination offers a strategic alternative to conventional freshwater resources by tapping into underutilized saline aquifers. Compared to seawater desalination, brackish water treatment generally requires lower energy input and operational costs due to its lower salinity levels, making it particularly suitable for decentralized applications in rural and peri-urban areas [3].

Recent advances in membrane technologies, including low-pressure reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, and hybrid systems, have significantly improved efficiency and reduced energy consumption [4]. Studies published in scientific journals have demonstrated that energy requirements for brackish water desalination can be as low as 0.5–2.5 kWh/m³, compared to 3–4 kWh/m³ for seawater desalination, depending on feedwater characteristics and system design [5]. These improvements create new opportunities for integrating desalination into agricultural practices, particularly when combined with renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaics.

The integration of renewable energy with desalination technologies is a critical factor in reducing the carbon footprint of irrigation systems and aligning with global climate targets. The Mediterranean region, especially its southern part, has significant solar energy potential, which can be harnessed to power decentralized desalination units [6]. Hybrid systems combining solar energy with battery storage or grid backup have shown promising results in ensuring continuous operation and adapting to seasonal variations in water demand [7]. According to recent technical reports by international agencies, renewable-powered desalination can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70% compared to fossil-fuel-based systems [8]. This aligns with broader policy frameworks such as the European Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6, SDG 7, and SDG 13.

Despite these technological advancements, several barriers continue to hinder the widespread adoption of decentralized desalination systems in Mediterranean agriculture. High initial capital expenditures, limited access to financing, and lack of technical capacity among farmers remain significant challenges [9]. Moreover, the management of brine, a concentrated by-product of desalination, poses environmental risks if not properly handled. Recent research emphasizes the need for circular approaches to brine management, including the recovery of valuable minerals and nutrients, as well as the development of zero-liquid discharge systems [10]. These approaches not only mitigate environmental impacts but also enhance the economic viability of desalination projects.

The socio-economic dimension of water management is particularly critical in the Mediterranean context, where disparities between northern and southern countries are pronounced. Northern Mediterranean countries generally benefit from stronger institutional frameworks, higher levels of technological development, and better access to financial resources. In contrast, southern and eastern countries often face constraints related to governance, infrastructure, and investment capacity [11]. Bridging these gaps requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach that fosters collaboration, knowledge transfer, and co-development of solutions tailored to local conditions.

One of the most effective mechanisms for achieving this is the implementation of multi-actor approaches that actively involve farmers, researchers, technology providers, policymakers, and financial institutions. Living Labs, as highlighted in recent European research initiatives, provide a dynamic platform for co-creation, testing, and validation of innovative solutions in real-world settings [12]. These participatory frameworks ensure that technologies are not only technically sound but also socially acceptable and economically viable. Evidence from pilot projects across the Mediterranean indicates that stakeholder engagement significantly enhances adoption rates and long-term sustainability of water management solutions [13].

Digital technologies are also playing an increasingly important role in optimizing desalination and irrigation systems. The use of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, artificial intelligence, and digital twins enables real-time monitoring and predictive management of water and energy flows [14]. For instance, AI-driven optimization algorithms can adjust desalination parameters based on feedwater quality and energy availability, thereby improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. Recent studies have shown that digitalization can lead to energy savings of up to 20% and water use efficiency improvements of 15–25% in agricultural systems [15]. These innovations are particularly relevant in decentralized contexts, where resource constraints necessitate smart and adaptive management strategies.

schematic of brackish water desalination

The concept of the water-energy-food-ecosystem (WEFE) nexus provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the interdependencies between different resource systems and for designing integrated solutions. In the Mediterranean region, where water scarcity directly impacts agricultural productivity and energy use, adopting a nexus approach is essential for achieving sustainability [16]. Decentralized desalination systems powered by renewable energy and coupled with efficient irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation can significantly enhance water productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. Moreover, the recovery of nutrients from brine streams can contribute to soil fertility and reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers, thereby supporting circular economy principles [17].

Bridging the gaps between the two shores of the Mediterranean is not only a matter of technology transfer but also of building mutual trust, shared governance structures, and aligned policy frameworks. Collaborative research and innovation programs, such as those funded under regional partnerships, play a crucial role in facilitating cross-border cooperation. These initiatives enable the exchange of best practices, harmonization of standards, and development of joint strategies for addressing common challenges [18]. For example, joint pilot projects involving partners from both northern and southern countries have demonstrated the feasibility of scaling up decentralized desalination solutions while adapting them to diverse agro-ecological conditions [19].

Financial mechanisms are another key element in bridging these gaps. Innovative financing models, including public-private partnerships, blended finance, and microcredit schemes, can help overcome investment barriers and support the deployment of decentralized systems at scale [20]. In particular, engaging local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of desalination units can stimulate economic development and create job opportunities in rural areas. Evidence from recent case studies suggests that localized value chains significantly enhance the resilience and sustainability of water infrastructure projects [21].

Policy coherence and regulatory support are equally important in enabling the adoption of non-conventional water resources. Clear guidelines on water quality standards, environmental protection, and resource allocation are necessary to ensure the safe and efficient use of desalinated water in agriculture. Furthermore, integrating desalination into national water management strategies and agricultural policies can provide a strong foundation for scaling up innovative solutions [22]. Cross-border policy dialogue and cooperation can also facilitate the alignment of regulatory frameworks and promote the adoption of best practices across the region.

Bottom Line

The success of decentralized brackish water desalination in the Mediterranean depends on the ability to create synergies between technological innovation, socio-economic development, and environmental sustainability. Bridging the gaps between the northern and southern shores is a critical step in this process, as it enables the sharing of knowledge, resources, and experiences that can drive collective progress. By fostering collaboration, promoting inclusive governance, and investing in capacity building, the Mediterranean region can transform water scarcity from a constraint into an opportunity for sustainable development.

Decentralized brackish water desalination represents a transformative solution for addressing water scarcity and enhancing agricultural resilience in the Mediterranean. Its successful implementation requires not only technological advancements but also a holistic approach that integrates renewable energy, digital innovation, circular economy principles, and stakeholder engagement. Bridging the gaps between the two shores of the Mediterranean is essential for unlocking the full potential of these solutions and for ensuring equitable and sustainable development across the region. Through coordinated efforts and shared commitment, the Mediterranean can serve as a model for climate-resilient water management and sustainable agriculture in water-scarce regions worldwide.

References

[1] FAO, AQUASTAT Main Database, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, 2016.

[2] Ž. Malek, P.H. Verburg, Adaptation of land management in the Mediterranean under scenarios of irrigation water use and availability, Mitig. Adapt. Strateg. Glob. Change 23 (2018) 821–837.

[3] N. Ghaffour, T.M. Missimer, G.L. Amy, Technical review and evaluation of the economics of water desalination: Current and future challenges, Desalination 309 (2013) 197–207.

[4] A. Alkhudhiri, N. Darwish, N. Hilal, Membrane distillation: A comprehensive review, Desalination 287 (2012) 2–18.

[5] E. Jones, M. Qadir, M.T.H. van Vliet, V. Smakhtin, S. Kang, The state of desalination and brine production: A global outlook, Sci. Total Environ. 657 (2019) 1343–1356.

[6] IRENA, Renewable Energy for Desalination: Technology Brief, International Renewable Energy Agency, Abu Dhabi, 2022.

[7] S. Caldera, A. Bogdanov, C. Breyer, Local cost of seawater RO desalination based on solar PV and wind energy: A global estimate, Desalination 385 (2016) 207–216.

[8] IEA, Water-Energy Nexus Report, International Energy Agency, Paris, 2023.

[9] M. Elimelech, W.A. Phillip, The future of seawater desalination: Energy, technology, and the environment, Science 333 (2011) 712–717.

[10] A. Panagopoulos, K. Haralambous, M. Loizidou, Desalination brine disposal methods and treatment technologies – A review, Sci. Total Environ. 693 (2019) 133545.

[11] World Bank, Beyond Scarcity: Water Security in the Middle East and North Africa, World Bank, Washington DC, 2018.

[12] T. Bernstein et al., The Societal Readiness Thinking Tool, Sci. Eng. Ethics 28 (2022) 1–20.

[13] J. Hoolohan et al., Engaging stakeholders in water-energy-food nexus research, Environ. Sci. Policy 90 (2018) 106–117.

[14] L. Zhang, J. Wang, Smart water management systems: A review, J. Clean. Prod. 255 (2020) 120243.

[15] A. Kamilaris, F.X. Prenafeta-Boldú, Deep learning in agriculture: A survey, Comput. Electron. Agric. 147 (2018) 70–90.

[16] R. Bleischwitz et al., The water-energy-food nexus: A systematic review, Environ. Res. Lett. 13 (2018) 033001.

[17] M. Qadir et al., Economics of salt-induced land degradation and restoration, Nat. Resour. Forum 38 (2014) 282–295

[18] European Commission, Water Resilience Strategy, Brussels, 2025.

[19] PRIMA Foundation, Programme Annual Report, Barcelona, 2024.

[20] OECD, Financing Water Supply, Sanitation and Flood Protection, OECD Publishing, Paris, 2020.

[21] UNIDO, Industrial Development Report, Vienna, 2022.

[22] European Commission, Circular Economy Action Plan, Brussels, 2020.

Your Air Conditioner Could Save a Bird’s Life

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Birds are not decorative extras in the urban frame. They are part of the living mechanism that keeps cities functioning — regulating insects, spreading seeds, supporting pollination, and holding together the fragile web of biodiversity that still survives between roads, towers, and heat‑soaked concrete.

Today, as extreme heat becomes a defining reality for cities around the world, this balance is under growing threat.

drops of life

Rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves are making urban environments harsher not only for people, but for wildlife struggling to survive in spaces built almost entirely for human comfort. When birds begin to disappear, the whole urban ecosystem starts to fail. Insects multiply unchecked. Biodiversity weakens. Cities become less stable, less resilient, less alive.

That is what makes Drops of Life so powerful.

It doesn’t promise a distant technological breakthrough. It reveals a solution already flowing through our cities every day — unnoticed, unused, and wasted.

Air conditioners produce condensed water as they cool the air. In most buildings, this clean water simply drips onto pavement and disappears. Drops of Life captures that condensation and redirects it into small drinking points for birds and other urban animals.

A tiny intervention. A massive meaning.

Because this is not just about hydration.

It is about restoring ecological balance where people actually live.

It is about rethinking waste as care.

It is about turning everyday urban infrastructure into an act of shared responsibility.

Most importantly, Drops of Life is not an idea meant to live on a website or inside environmental reports. It is designed to be repeated, copied, and adopted anywhere.

Residents, cafés, offices, schools, property managers, architects, maintenance teams, developers, and city communities: this is your cue. If your building has air conditioners, it already has untapped potential. If your city faces heat and water stress, it already has a reason to act.

Ask how condensation can be collected. Suggest simple dispensers.

Make small water points part of everyday urban life.

That is how real environmental change spreads — not only through awareness, but through simple actions that anyone can repeat. The 3D‑printable model of the water dispenser is openly available at https://dropsoflife.city. Install it. Share it. Improve it.

drops of life

Drops of Life turns an overlooked urban by‑product into a shared environmental gesture.

A drop that once vanished into concrete can now help birds survive, support biodiversity, and maintain the fragile rhythm between species that keeps cities livable.

The sky is already giving us the water.

Every city now has a choice what to do with it.

Catch the drop before it disappears.