Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Waste Management Takes Action for a Clean Hajj
As the Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Waste Management (MWAN) is rolling out initiatives to ensure a healthy and clean environment for pilgrims.
Sultan Al-Harthi, a spokesperson for the center, shared that these initiatives aim to enhance waste management practices during Hajj, while also preserving natural resources for future generations.
Turning Food Waste into Fertilizer
One of the key initiatives involves a revolutionary machine that transforms food waste into fertilizer. This eco-friendly process not only eliminates emissions but also prevents any unpleasant odors during recycling, making it ideal for use within sacred sites.
Sustainable Ihram Initiative
Under the “Sustainable Ihram” initiative, pilgrims are educated on the significance of recycling and environmental conservation. Textile waste such as ihrams, pillows, blankets, and mattresses will be collected, sorted, recycled, and distributed. Pilgrims can contribute their clothing in designated containers at Mina camps and hotels in Makkah.
Preparing for Waste Disposal
The center anticipates collecting around 50 tonnes of ihrams and over 300,000 pillows in collaboration with relevant authorities. An outreach team is currently inspecting Mina camps to ensure the smooth implementation of the initiative.
Safe Disposal of Slaughterhouse Waste
With an estimated 12,000 tonnes of waste from slaughterhouse carcasses expected this year, a specialized team will oversee the safe disposal process starting on the first day of Eid Al-Adha.
Training Hajj Service Providers
MWAN is conducting training courses on sustainable waste management for 121 service providers to enhance their skills, raise awareness about waste reduction, and promote the use of environmentally friendly materials. The monitoring team has been actively inspecting facilities to improve operational efficiency.