logo
Oman enhances vet waste management with Beah

Oman enhances vet waste management with Beah

Observer22-03-2025

MUSCAT: In a strategic move to enhance environmental sustainability and ensure the safe management of hazardous waste, Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (Beah) has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. The agreement focuses on the collection, transportation and treatment of healthcare waste generated by government veterinary clinics affiliated with the ministry.
The agreement was signed by Dr Ahmed bin Nasser al Bakri, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources for Agriculture and Jassim bin Mohammed al Wahaibi, General Manager of Healthcare Waste Management at Beah. The collaboration aligns with national efforts to establish a more efficient and environmentally responsible waste management system, particularly for veterinary clinics handling biohazardous materials.
Under this agreement, Beah will implement advanced waste management solutions to handle veterinary healthcare waste in compliance with the highest approved environmental and safety standards. The initiative is expected to reduce ecological risks and enhance public health by ensuring the proper disposal of hazardous materials.
Jassim al Wahaibi emphasised that this agreement reinforces Beah's commitment to providing integrated waste management solutions. He noted that the company remains dedicated to adopting cutting-edge technologies and best practices to manage healthcare waste efficiently, in alignment with global environmental standards.
Dr Al Bakri highlighted the Ministry's commitment to implementing sustainable environmental practices within the veterinary sector. He stressed that this partnership would play a crucial role in protecting human and animal health while ensuring the highest levels of operational efficiency in veterinary services across the Sultanate of Oman.
This agreement represents a significant step forward in Oman's ongoing efforts to achieve environmental sustainability and aligns with the nation's Oman Vision 2040 goals. Through this collaboration, the country continues to prioritise responsible waste management strategies that benefit both the environment and public health. — ONA

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

EID CELEBRATIONS — ENSURE SAFE AND DELICIOUS BBQ
EID CELEBRATIONS — ENSURE SAFE AND DELICIOUS BBQ

Observer

time2 days ago

  • Observer

EID CELEBRATIONS — ENSURE SAFE AND DELICIOUS BBQ

Every year, Eid Al Adha arrives to bring Omani families together in a moment filled with warmth and togetherness around tables laden with delicious dishes, most notably the Omani barbecue namely shuwa and mashakeek. Courtyards and yards across Oman come alive with the crackling sounds of burning charcoal and the fragrant aroma of spices. However, amidst these beautiful moments, some incorrect habits may lurk that could turn the joy of Eid into hidden health hazards, especially during barbecue preparation. To ensure you enjoy every bite without worry, experts at the Food Safety and Quality Center at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources have provided essential tips to consider. Many people use aluminium foil to wrap and grill meat, unaware of the potential health risks when it's exposed to high heat, particularly if the meat is marinated with vinegar, lemon, or spices. Aluminium may react with these ingredients and leach into the food. Some studies indicate that the accumulation of aluminium in the body could be linked to long-term health problems. To avoid this, experts recommend using safer alternatives like natural plant leaves (such as banana leaves) or parchment paper, which not only add unique flavour but also protect the food from harmful reactions. Heat-resistant cooking bags or glass or ceramic dishes are also recommended, especially if cooking in the oven, as they provide both safety and flavour. No Eid celebration in Oman is complete without grilled mashakeek and lamb chops, which families prepare with various spices. But that enticing sight of meat turning a delicious golden brown on the grill can hide health hazards. When meat burns at high temperatures, dangerous compounds like heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can form and these have been linked to increased risks of diseases like cancer over the long term. To reduce these risks, experts advise raising the grill grate slightly to avoid direct flames and marinating the meat with antioxidants such as garlic and rosemary, which help reduce the formation of these harmful compounds. It's also recommended to flip the meat regularly to cook it evenly without burning the edges. Additionally, removing excess fat before grilling can help reduce smoke production. HIDDEN ENEMY Sometimes, fat drips onto the charcoal during grilling, producing smoke laden with chemicals that can settle on the food unnoticed, especially if the charcoal contains synthetic additives or chemicals. This smoke can introduce harmful substances to the meat, which might then enter the body. To reduce these risks, experts recommend using natural, additive-free charcoal and avoiding intense flames, as the resulting smoke may carry harmful pollutants. It's also best to maintain a reasonable distance between the meat and the burning charcoal to minimise contact with rising smoke. Experts also advise allowing the charcoal to burn thoroughly until it becomes ember-like, free of flames, to reduce smoke to the lowest level possible. Dr Reem al Zaabi emphasised that grilling is one of the preferred methods for cooking meat, as it helps remove some of the fat in the meat, making it a healthier option if prepared correctly. However, she also cautioned against letting the meat reach the point of burning, as this could pose significant health risks. She stressed the importance of careful grilling to avoid these dangers. She added that a balanced meal is essential to reduce potential harm from consuming grilled meat, through side dishes like fiber-rich salads, which should be a staple on the Eid table. She also urged people to limit their intake of carbonated drinks and replace them with water flavoured with lemon slices, as this can help reduce cholesterol levels in the body. She further recommended drinking green tea, which has benefits for digestion and helps lower cholesterol, making it a healthy choice after Eid meals. BLURB No Eid celebration in Oman is complete without grilled mashakeek and lamb chops, which families prepare with various spices. But that enticing sight of meat turning a delicious golden brown on the grill can hide health hazards.

The community spirit: The new now of residential developments
The community spirit: The new now of residential developments

Observer

time3 days ago

  • Observer

The community spirit: The new now of residential developments

MUSCAT, JUNE 4 Today, the idea of "live, work, and thrive" is more than just a lifestyle trend—it's a driving force behind modern residential developments. Homebuyers are no longer just looking for a place to live; they're seeking vibrant, self-contained communities that offer everything they need within easy reach. From wellness spaces and parks to schools, retail, and healthcare facilities, integrated living has become a top priority. At the same time, sustainability has taken centre stage, making developments like The Sustainable City – Yiti among the most desirable in the region. Three key factors are fueling this shift toward sustainable community living in the Middle East. First, the region's deep-rooted culture of hospitality and strong community values naturally aligns with the concept of interconnected, supportive neighborhoods. Second, the pandemic reshaped lifestyles and priorities, prompting a growing desire for resilient, self-sufficient communities where basic needs are within walking distance. Third, national visions across the region—such as Oman Vision 2040—are putting sustainability in the spotlight, increasing demand for green spaces, energy-efficient homes, and wellness-focused living. Today's residents are looking for more than just convenience—they want connection and quality of life. That means easy access to retail and dining, schools, healthcare, and a wide range of recreational and wellness amenities. Parks, sports facilities, and community centers are no longer add-ons; they are essentials. People want to move freely, whether by walking, biking, or using electric transport. Pedestrian-friendly design, mixed-use developments, and co-living spaces are now key components of truly livable communities. Sustainability, too, goes far beyond having solar panels. Homeowners are increasingly seeking communities that help reduce energy bills through renewable energy sources, provide clean transportation options, ensure water availability, and feature smart technologies that make daily living easier and more eco-friendly. With growing awareness of climate change and resource scarcity, many now view sustainable living not just as a moral choice, but as a smart investment in the future. Oman is especially well-suited for this new era of sustainable communities. With its natural beauty, strategic location, and strong commitment to environmental goals through Vision 2040, the country offers fertile ground for projects like The Sustainable City – Yiti. Set against Oman's scenic landscape, The Sustainable City – Yiti combines the spirit of community living with world-class sustainable design. Residents can take part in community gardening, ride shared e-bikes, or hop into electric buggies—initiatives that promote both wellness and environmental care. Facilities like gyms, equestrian clubs, and walking and cycling tracks encourage an active, connected lifestyle, while smart technology integrates sustainability into every aspect of daily life. Developed by Diamond Developers—a subsidiary of SEE Holding—in collaboration with Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran), this pioneering project aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, a full decade ahead of the UN's global target. The Sustainable City – Yiti stands as an international benchmark for what's possible when vision, innovation, and environmental stewardship come together. As cities across the Middle East reimagine urban planning, demand for community-focused, sustainable developments will only grow. Governments, developers, and investors all have a role to play in shaping this new reality. With its cultural richness and natural splendor, the region has a unique opportunity to lead the way—and projects like The Sustainable City – Yiti provide a blueprint for creating healthy, resilient, future-ready communities for generations to come.

MAFWR moves to boost honey industry
MAFWR moves to boost honey industry

Muscat Daily

time4 days ago

  • Muscat Daily

MAFWR moves to boost honey industry

Muscat – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) held a high-level meeting in Muscat on Tuesday to discuss the development of Oman's beekeeping sector and ways to increase the added value of locally produced honey. The session was chaired by H E Dr Ahmed bin Nasser al Bakri, Undersecretary for Agricultural Resources in MAFWR, and attended by beekeepers, officials from honey export and import companies, and representatives from the ministry. Participants reviewed key economic indicators, identified sector challenges, and discussed proposals to improve production and raise the quality of Omani honey for better competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. H E Bakri described the beekeeping sector as an important part of national food security and a potential contributor to economic diversification. He called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure sustainability and implement best practices in honey production and marketing. Omani honey, particularly Sidr and Samr varieties, is valued for its quality, attributed to the country's biodiversity and unique flora in the region.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store