be’ah is committed to transitioning to a circular economy (CE) model to replace the traditional linear economy (LE) model. The CE model emphasizes extending the lifecycle of materials and fully utilizing resources, which helps to minimize waste generation and its associated environmental impacts. This approach includes reducing waste at the source, reusing products, recycling materials, recovering energy from waste, and safely disposing of any remaining waste. By implementing innovative material and energy recovery projects, be’ah aims to extract maximum value from waste while reducing its environmental footprint. These efforts are aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040 targets and are developed in collaboration with diverse stakeholders to ensure commercial viability and technical soundness.
Moreover, be’ah has embedded waste reduction strategies such as redesigning products and processes to minimize waste at the source. This involves altering the design, manufacture, and purchase of materials and goods to ensure that waste is designed out of the value chain.
Additionally, be’ah collaborates with various stakeholders to support the efforts of formulating policies and legislations that are aligned with CE principles. Among these stakeholders are the Center for Sustainability and Excellence (CSE), with whom be’ah delivers training courses and the Oman Sustainability Index national initiative; MSCI Inc., enhancing sustainability and ESG practices in Oman through Provisional ESG Rating and Peer Benchmarking services; the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), providing the Pathways to Net Zero training course; and Inspired Solutions, delivering the Eco-innovate Oman (EiO) accelerator program.
The WtE plant supports Oman’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, aiming to reduce carbon emissions from landfills by 50 million tonnes. What is the current stage of the plan and what are the opportunities for the MENA companies to join this project?
The Waste-to-Energy (WtE) plant in Oman is a major initiative aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, reducing carbon emissions from landfills by 50 million tonnes. Currently, the project is in the implementation phase, with environmental impact assessments confirming that the WtE plant will produce significantly fewer greenhouse gases compared to landfilling. The plant will treat 4,500 tons of municipal solid waste per day, generating 130-150 MWh of electricity, thereby supporting Oman Vision 2040 by diverting 80% of MSW from landfills. The CAPEX is estimated between USD 700 – 900 million, and the plant is designed to operate for 35 years, making it an attractive investment for green investors due to its emission-reducing potential. It complements other renewable energy sources by providing clean energy from non-fossil origins and reducing waste management liabilities. Opportunities for MENA companies include investment in green technologies, waste management, recycling, and value recovery processes. The plant will also utilize byproducts such as bottom ash for construction and landfill cover, while fly ash will be managed at be’ah’s Industrial Waste Treatment Facility (IWTF). Ensuring a consistent waste supply and adhering to strict emission regulations are key challenges, but the project’s overall positive impact on reducing GHG emissions and supporting sustainable practices presents a significant advancement in Oman’s environmental strategy.
Waste recycling is crucial for environmentally friendly economies.How important is it for be’ah to raise awareness about waste recycling in Oman? Are you planning to promote recycling nationwide or establish special initiatives for managing recycled waste?
Waste recycling is crucial for environmentally friendly economies, and raising awareness about this issue is of paramount importance for be’ah. The company is committed to promoting recycling nationwide through various public awareness campaigns and practical initiatives. For instance, the “Oman Tistahil” campaign, now in its fourth year, educates the public on the negative impacts of littering and the importance of proper waste disposal. Similarly, the Ramadan campaigns which focuses on reducing food waste, highlighting sustainable practices during the holy month.
be’ah also engages communities through our mobile awareness units, which provides interactive educational experiences about recycling and sustainability at various locations and events. Participation in major events like Oman Sustainability Week and the Oman Science Festival further underscores be’ah’s dedication to public education on recycling.
In addition to raising awareness, be’ah has implemented practical measures to manage recycled waste efficiently. The deployment of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and the Blue Bins project aims to segregate and recycle PET waste, integrating these efforts into a broader strategy to optimize waste management infrastructure across Oman.
Through these comprehensive efforts, be’ah demonstrates its unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of sustainability and responsible waste management in the Sultanate, aligning with national goals for environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
Additionally, be’ah manages several other waste streams, including special waste streams (SWS) like green and bulky waste, construction and demolition waste, and end-of-life tires; healthcare waste (HCW) from medical facilities; and industrial waste (IW) from industrial processes, mining, oil & gas, and water & electricity activities, all handled with specific collection, management, and treatment processes to ensure environmental and health safety.
Among the various waste management methods, we can utilize waste for energy production or even carbon capture. What should be prioritize in terms of the waste management to gain the most benefit from this process?
To gain the most benefit from waste management processes, be’ah should prioritize a hierarchy focusing on waste reduction, reuse, and recycling before considering other methods such as carbon capture. The most effective way to manage waste is to prevent its generation in the first place through public awareness campaigns, education, and policies that encourage minimal waste production and sustainable consumption patterns. Encouraging the reuse of products and materials extends their life cycle and reduces the need for new resources, facilitated by programs promoting repairing, refurbishing, and repurposing items. Recycling should be a key focus, allowing materials to be processed and used again, reducing the demand for virgin resources and minimizing environmental impact. Enhancing recycling efforts involves improving collection systems, investing in advanced sorting and processing facilities, and collaborating with industries to create markets for recycled materials. Composting organic waste such as food scraps and yard trimmings can turn waste into valuable compost for agricultural and landscaping use, thereby reducing landfill waste and contributing to soil health and carbon sequestration. Establishing and optimizing Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) can increase the efficiency of waste sorting and the recovery of valuable materials. Carbon capture technologies can be integrated into various stages of waste management to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, such as capturing methane emissions from landfills or anaerobic digestion facilities. Additionally, improving landfill management through advanced designs, monitoring systems, and post-closure care ensures long-term environmental safety. By focusing on these priorities, be’ah can maximize the environmental and economic benefits of its waste management processes, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy in Oman.
The Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 presented by the UN Environment Programme and the ISWA International Solid Waste Association that provides the current state and future trends of waste management around the world.What are your thoughts over this report and what trends are curial to implement in the waste management strategies in the region?
The Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 by the UN Environment Programme and the ISWA International Solid Waste Association provides a comprehensive overview of the current state and future trends in waste management globally. This report is crucial for informing and guiding waste management strategies in the region. One of the key takeaways is the emphasis on transitioning to a circular economy, which aligns perfectly with be’ah’s strategic goals. Implementing circular economy principles, such as reducing waste at the source, reusing materials, and enhancing recycling efforts, is essential for sustainable waste management.
The report highlights the importance of advanced waste management technologies and infrastructure. For the region, this means investing in state-of-the-art sorting and recycling facilities, promoting the use of digital technologies for waste tracking and management, and enhancing the efficiency of waste collection systems. Another critical trend is the integration of waste management with broader environmental and climate policies. This includes adopting measures for carbon capture, improving landfill management to minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and exploring innovative waste-to-resource initiatives.
Furthermore, the report underscores the need for robust regulatory frameworks and effective enforcement to ensure compliance with waste management standards. This is particularly relevant for the region, where strengthening regulations and enhancing public awareness about proper waste disposal practices can significantly improve waste management outcomes. Collaboration and partnerships with international organizations, private sector entities, and local communities are also vital to drive innovation and share best practices.
In line with the current trends, be’ah is also keeping abreast of advancements through capacity building and research and development (R&D) initiatives. These efforts are crucial for maintaining cutting-edge waste management practices and fostering innovation. The company is dedicated to developing and enhancing the skills and knowledge of its human resources, recognizing them as key to achieving success. Additionally, be’ah’s commitment to R&D allows it to explore new technologies and methodologies that improve waste management efficiency and sustainability.
Overall, the Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 provides valuable insights and recommendations that can help shape effective and sustainable waste management strategies in the region. By prioritizing circular economy principles, investing in advanced technologies, integrating waste management with climate policies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and focusing on capacity building and R&D, the region can achieve significant environmental, economic, and social benefits.
