International Day of Zero Waste: turning waste into opportunities
https://arab.news/zpyrc
For the third consecutive year, the world is observing International Day of Zero Waste, marked annually on March 30.
This year's day, themed 'Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles,' emphasizes the importance of reducing the impact of the clothing sector's waste, and promotes sustainability and circularity.
Textile waste: a growing crisis
The textile industry is taking a heavy toll on the planet. It is responsible for 2 to 8 percent of global planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions and 9 percent of annual microplastic pollution ending up in oceans. The industry also consumes 215 trillion liters of water per year and uses about 3,500 chemicals in production, many of which are toxic for both humans and the environment, including soil, water, animal health, and plant life.
The linear business model of fashion and textile sector is fueling overproduction and overconsumption. Driven by an effective marketing machine that is being replicated by other sectors, coupled with lower prices, and the efficiency of online shopping, this trend is contributing to the global waste and pollution crises.
Each year, 92 million tons of textile waste are generated worldwide with an estimate that every second, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of clothing is disposed of around the world. Only 8 percent of textiles fibers in 2023 were made from recycled sources, with less than 1 percent of the total fiber market coming from textile-to-textile recycling and around 13 percent of clothing being recycled to mostly lower-value uses such as insulation and cleaning cloths. This lack of fiber recycling practices is estimated to equate to an annual material value loss of more than $100 billion.
Circularity is key
Through its Textile Initiative, the UN Environment Programme is focused on accelerating the transition toward a sustainable and circular textile value chain. The program has set out a roadmap for stakeholders to transform the sector using the life cycle approach, with the aim to generate business revenue from circular business models such as reuse, repair, and circular products, instead of selling products produced from virgin fibers.
UN Environment Programme looks to reduce impact of textile waste, and promote sustainability.
Sami Dimassi
Moreover, consumer awareness and behavioral change is essential to turn the tide on overconsumption and overproduction, along with transparency in information sharing as to what goes into each product, covering both environmental and social issues. To that end, UNEP has also developed a Sustainable Fashion Communication Playbook whereby it calls for a commitment to all communication to be evidence-based and data-driven.
In West Asia, UNEP established the West Asia Sustainable Fashion Academy in 2021, as an influential regional platform within the fashion industry to drive sustainability and circularity across the textile value chain in the region. WASFA has engaged with different stakeholders through capacity-building initiatives, behavioral change campaigns, as well as research.
Composting: a sustainable solution for organic waste
Zero waste is not limited to textile waste. In West Asia, over 50 percent of the municipal solid waste destined for land disposal is made of organic waste, 85 percent of which is food waste. Uncontrolled decomposition emits methane, a greenhouse gas, and waste is estimated to account for 20 percent of global methane emissions.
This is where composting offers a solution. It consists of transitioning organic waste away from landfill disposal, and turning it into economic opportunities, transforming it through a natural recycling process into organic fertilizers improving soil quality and returning nutrients back to the soil.
Guide on composting promotes recycling of organic waste through locally tailored techniques.
Sami Dimassi
The UNEP Regional Office for West Asia has developed a guide on 'Composting Solid Organic Waste from Municipal Sources in West Asia' to promote the recycling of organic waste through locally tailored composting techniques, from planning, design, and operation of composting facilities.
Way forward
Managing waste requires a multi-stakeholder approach. Governments have a duty to enact stricter regulations to prevent waste generation and limit its production, while investing in sustainable infrastructure.
Businesses must adopt circular economy principles, reducing waste through recycling and repurposing.
Individuals must shift their mindset and embrace zero-waste by taking conscious and sustainable choices in their daily lives.
Our aim for the future is not to commemorate the International Day for Zero Waste by covering problems, but we hope to highlight achievements that will 'build a fairer, and more sustainable planet.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
30-03-2025
- Arab News
International Day of Zero Waste: turning waste into opportunities
For the third consecutive year, the world is observing International Day of Zero Waste, marked annually on March 30. This year's day, themed 'Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles,' emphasizes the importance of reducing the impact of the clothing sector's waste, and promotes sustainability and circularity. Textile waste: a growing crisis The textile industry is taking a heavy toll on the planet. It is responsible for 2 to 8 percent of global planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions and 9 percent of annual microplastic pollution ending up in oceans. The industry also consumes 215 trillion liters of water per year and uses about 3,500 chemicals in production, many of which are toxic for both humans and the environment, including soil, water, animal health, and plant life. The linear business model of fashion and textile sector is fueling overproduction and overconsumption. Driven by an effective marketing machine that is being replicated by other sectors, coupled with lower prices, and the efficiency of online shopping, this trend is contributing to the global waste and pollution crises. Each year, 92 million tons of textile waste are generated worldwide with an estimate that every second, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of clothing is disposed of around the world. Only 8 percent of textiles fibers in 2023 were made from recycled sources, with less than 1 percent of the total fiber market coming from textile-to-textile recycling and around 13 percent of clothing being recycled to mostly lower-value uses such as insulation and cleaning cloths. This lack of fiber recycling practices is estimated to equate to an annual material value loss of more than $100 billion. Circularity is key Through its Textile Initiative, the UN Environment Programme is focused on accelerating the transition toward a sustainable and circular textile value chain. The program has set out a roadmap for stakeholders to transform the sector using the life cycle approach, with the aim to generate business revenue from circular business models such as reuse, repair, and circular products, instead of selling products produced from virgin fibers. UN Environment Programme looks to reduce impact of textile waste, and promote sustainability. Sami Dimassi Moreover, consumer awareness and behavioral change is essential to turn the tide on overconsumption and overproduction, along with transparency in information sharing as to what goes into each product, covering both environmental and social issues. To that end, UNEP has also developed a Sustainable Fashion Communication Playbook whereby it calls for a commitment to all communication to be evidence-based and data-driven. In West Asia, UNEP established the West Asia Sustainable Fashion Academy in 2021, as an influential regional platform within the fashion industry to drive sustainability and circularity across the textile value chain in the region. WASFA has engaged with different stakeholders through capacity-building initiatives, behavioral change campaigns, as well as research. Composting: a sustainable solution for organic waste Zero waste is not limited to textile waste. In West Asia, over 50 percent of the municipal solid waste destined for land disposal is made of organic waste, 85 percent of which is food waste. Uncontrolled decomposition emits methane, a greenhouse gas, and waste is estimated to account for 20 percent of global methane emissions. This is where composting offers a solution. It consists of transitioning organic waste away from landfill disposal, and turning it into economic opportunities, transforming it through a natural recycling process into organic fertilizers improving soil quality and returning nutrients back to the soil. Guide on composting promotes recycling of organic waste through locally tailored techniques. Sami Dimassi The UNEP Regional Office for West Asia has developed a guide on 'Composting Solid Organic Waste from Municipal Sources in West Asia' to promote the recycling of organic waste through locally tailored composting techniques, from planning, design, and operation of composting facilities. Way forward Managing waste requires a multi-stakeholder approach. Governments have a duty to enact stricter regulations to prevent waste generation and limit its production, while investing in sustainable infrastructure. Businesses must adopt circular economy principles, reducing waste through recycling and repurposing. Individuals must shift their mindset and embrace zero-waste by taking conscious and sustainable choices in their daily lives. Our aim for the future is not to commemorate the International Day for Zero Waste by covering problems, but we hope to highlight achievements that will 'build a fairer, and more sustainable planet.'
Asharq Al-Awsat
11-02-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Somalia Finance Minister to Asharq Al-Awsat: We Settled $4.5 Bln in Debt with Saudi Support
Somalia's Minister of Finance Bihi Iman Egeh announced that the country has successfully settled around $4.5 billion in debt under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative led by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He attributed this milestone to major institutional and financial reforms, as well as increased domestic revenue mobilization. In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Egeh emphasized that Mogadishu views Riyadh as a key strategic partner in fostering economic growth and enhancing security and stability. He also praised Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in facilitating Somalia's debt relief efforts. Egeh outlined Somalia's priorities for the next phase, with a strong focus on attracting investments, particularly from Saudi Arabia, in key sectors such as livestock, renewable energy, the blue economy, and natural resources, including gold and minerals. He said that in December 2023, Somalia reached the completion point of the HIPC Initiative—a process nearly a decade in the making. This achievement followed a series of reforms aimed at rebuilding state institutions, improving public financial management, and implementing broad economic policies. As a result, Somalia successfully restructured its debts, particularly those owed to members of the Paris Club and other international creditors. Saudi Arabia's role Egeh confirmed that Arab financial institutions were part of the Paris Club negotiations and that Somalia had settled its obligations, including debts owed to the Saudi Fund for Development. He acknowledged Saudi Arabia's critical role in facilitating and supporting the restructuring of Somalia's debt. The minister underscored the strong and ongoing coordination between Mogadishu and Riyadh, particularly in security matters. He revealed that a Somali delegation, including security officials, was currently in Saudi Arabia discussing strategies for combating terrorist groups. Additionally, Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has a mission in Jeddah to strengthen bilateral cooperation beyond financial matters, extending into military and intelligence coordination. Egeh stressed his country's commitment to expanding this partnership to effectively respond to security threats, noting that terrorist groups operate across borders, posing a shared threat to regional and global stability. Boosting investment and economic growth Following its debt relief success, Somalia is now focused on economic development and attracting foreign investments. The government is preparing to sign a new program with the IMF to build on the progress made through debt relief and solidify economic reforms. Egeh stated that Mogadishu has taken significant steps to improve the investment climate and regulatory framework, offering incentives to investors. He emphasized Saudi Arabia's importance as a historical and geographical partner in the Red Sea region, positioning it as a priority market for Somali investments. Key investment sectors Somalia, home to Africa's longest mainland coastline, offers vast opportunities in the blue economy, fisheries, and untapped natural resources. Egeh pointed to agriculture and livestock as particularly promising sectors for investment. Saudi Arabia is Somalia's largest trade partner, importing between three and five million livestock annually. The minister highlighted opportunities to modernize and expand this trade by upgrading the agricultural and livestock sectors. He also pointed to significant potential in renewable energy, which could have a transformative impact on industries such as livestock farming and cold-chain logistics within the blue economy. Additionally, Somalia's vast mineral wealth—including gold and other valuable minerals—positions the country as an attractive destination for investors. General view of the Somali capital, Mogadishu. (Reuters) Security concerns Egeh noted Somalia's history of security challenges, but stressed that over the past 15 to 20 years, the country has been on a steady path toward rebuilding its economy and strengthening security. The Somali government has launched an aggressive military campaign against the extremist Al-Shabaab group, liberating more than 80 villages. Egeh stated that these security gains create a significant opportunity to attract investments and revitalize the economy. According to the minister, Somalia has adopted a three-pronged strategy to combat Al-Shabaab and other extremist groups. The first involves countering their ideological influence by educating communities about the false narratives promoted by these organizations. The second targets their financial networks by cutting off funding sources. The third focuses on direct military engagement to dismantle their operational capabilities. Egeh noted that his country has made significant progress in disrupting terrorist financing, shutting down thousands of suspicious accounts on electronic money platforms and in traditional banks. These measures have severely weakened Al-Shabaab's ability to generate revenue through extortion and illegal taxation. He pointed out that before the current Somali government took office, Al-Shabaab had access to substantial financial resources, posing a regional threat across Africa and the Middle East. However, recent countermeasures have significantly diminished the group's ability to fund operations, both within Somalia and beyond. Somalia is also engaged in a campaign against ISIS militants operating in the country, particularly in the northeastern regions. Egeh revealed that government forces have reclaimed significant territory and destroyed ISIS strongholds. Potential Al-Shabaab links with Houthis When asked about possible ties between Al-Shabaab and Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militias, Egeh said that while no direct connections have been confirmed, Somalia remains vigilant against any emerging alliances between terrorist groups. He reiterated that his country's primary goal is the complete eradication of both Al-Shabaab and ISIS to prevent them from destabilizing the broader region.
Saudi Gazette
18-11-2024
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia to host first-ever UNCCD COP16 Green Zone
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia is set to make history at the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) by introducing a Green Zone and thematic days for the first time in the event's program reflects the Kingdom's determination to lead global efforts in combating land degradation, drought, and desertification while galvanizing international collaboration to achieve lasting solutions. The Green Zone will provide a platform to raise global awareness about land degradation and foster dialogue among key stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, NGOs, businesses, and at-risk Osama Faqeeha, Deputy Minister for Environment at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and Advisor to the UNCCD COP16 Presidency, emphasized the pressing need for collective action to address these challenges. 'Land degradation, desertification, and drought impact almost every corner of the planet and every living being on it,' Dr. Faqeeha said.'Saudi Arabia will host the first-ever UNCCD COP16 Green Zone to mobilize the international community and maximize the opportunity for delivering lasting global change. Whether as a visitor engaging in critical conversations or an exhibitor showcasing innovation, I encourage everyone to register and be part of the solution.' The Green and Blue Zones will host seven thematic days, each designed to drive meaningful action on critical days will focus on themes such as land restoration, sustainable finance, and agri-food systems, fostering dialogue between stakeholders to address global priorities. Among the highlights, Land Day will showcase restoration initiatives and nature-based solutions, while Finance Day will address the financing gap for sustainable land UN Environment Programme estimates that $7 trillion is invested annually in activities that negatively impact nature, equivalent to about 7% of global will aim to redirect these funds towards sustainable practices, complemented by a special ministerial dialogue and innovation showcases. Governance Day will focus on improving women's land rights and addressing key policy issues related to land tenure and resource Agri-Food Systems Day will tackle food security, crop resilience, and sustainable agricultural practices. Resilience Day will spotlight solutions for water scarcity, drought resilience, and early warning systems for sand and dust storms, while People's Day will bring together youth and gender caucuses to emphasize the role of young people and vulnerable UNCCD estimates that one billion people under the age of 25 live in regions directly dependent on land and natural resources for their livelihoods. The Science, Technology, and Innovation Day will highlight the critical role of research and innovation in land restoration, ensuring synergies with climate and biodiversity goals while addressing funding gaps. The COP16 program also includes the Business for Land Forum, which will convene global leaders to explore the economic imperative of sustainable land practices. The forum aims to underscore the necessity of aligning economic priorities with sustainable land management to mitigate environmental challenges. — SG
