Latest news with #NCEC
Arab News
7 days ago
- Health
- Arab News
New environmental monitoring technologies used for this year's Hajj
Jeddah: Saudi Arabia's National Center for Environmental Compliance has begun using new satellite monitoring technologies to protect the environment for this year's Hajj. The NCEC uses satellite data to monitor and analyze environmental media, including air, water and soil quality. The center relies on satellites to monitor environmental challenges across wide geographic areas at high speed, enabling emergency teams to quickly reach affected sites. Hani Al-Subhi, director-general of the Makkah Region branch, spoke to Arab News about the center's use of satellite technology. 'These technologies help pinpoint the precise locations of environmental challenges, facilitating a rapid response and enhancing the provision of a healthy, pollutant-free environment for pilgrims,' he said Meanwhile, Abu Talib Zaki, a technical expert in monitoring, spoke about how the center cooperates with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology to collect two types of satellite imagery. The first is passive remote sensing, which measures reflections of light emitted from other objects. The second is active remote sensing, which uses light from the satellite itself to create images. The spatial resolution of the images used reaches 30 cm, meaning that each pixel of the image covers 30x30 cm, allowing for high-precision monitoring of environmental phenomena. The National Center for Environmental Compliance earlier this week completed 90 percent of the preemptive inspections to ensure the safety of water, air, and soil for Hajj. Monitoring efforts will continue until pilgrims complete their rituals in a healthy, pollutant-free environment. The center also uses nine air quality monitoring stations — six located in Makkah and the holy sites and three in Madinah. These stations operate around the clock to measure air quality, and if any pollutant is detected, field teams are dispatched immediately to the site to identify the source and coordinate with the authorities to eliminate the cause of pollution.
The Sun
09-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
NCEC approves EPR policy framework, mandatory eco-design implementation
PUTRAJAYA: The National Circular Economy Council (NCEC) meeting today approved in principle the proposed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Policy Framework and agreed to the mandatory implementation of eco-design. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said EPR was among the key focus areas of the ministry this year, emphasising the concept of government-private joint responsibility in managing solid waste. 'EPR is a crucial instrument in the circular economy, establishing joint responsibility between the government and industry to manage waste sustainably and responsibly, thus reducing the financial burden on the government in handling solid waste,' he said in a statement after chairing the NCEC meeting here today. Nga said the EPR Policy Framework developed by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) was the result of an engagement session with various stakeholders, particularly industry players. He added that the framework included key elements such as the EPR model, the determination of obligated companies, procurement targets, types of materials, implementation phases, and the roles and responsibilities of relevant stakeholders. Nga said the NCEC also approved four new policies aimed at driving the circular economy, including a proposal for the mandatory implementation of eco-design submitted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). He said this proposal included the development of mandatory policies, regulations, frameworks, guidelines, and eco-design standards. 'These eco-designed products will foster a culture of sustainable product use and boost consumer confidence,' he said. Nga also said the NCEC had agreed that, effective Jan 1, 2026, all shopping complexes must provide recycling facilities or drive-through recycling centres as a condition for local authority (PBT) premises licences. He said the council also took note of the 'KITAR: Peranti Lama, Nafas Baharu' initiative, implemented by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which emphasised the importance of managing e-waste efficiently and effectively through recycling and remanufacturing processes. In addition, Nga said PR1MA Corporation Malaysia (PR1MA) had launched the Recycling Programme at Komuniti PR1MA residences, in collaboration with the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleaning Corporation (SWCorp). He said the programme involved the purchase of used cooking oil, recycled goods, and activities aimed at raising public awareness of recycling. 'This initiative serves as an example that supports the blueprint for housing developers to provide facilities that support the circular economy and collaborate with the government in the transformation towards a low-carbon society,' he said. Nga said all outcomes of the NCEC meeting were in line with the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and the Circular Economy Blueprint for Solid Waste 2025–2035, which aimed to realise the national agenda for transforming solid waste management in accordance with the circular economy model. 'The KPKT will present the outcomes of this meeting for the Cabinet's consideration and approval,' he said. Nga also announced that Malaysia Cleanup Day would be celebrated on Sept 27 in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, with 100,000 participants representing various sectors, including ministries, government departments, industries, non-governmental organisations, educational institutions, security personnel, and the public. The programme is an annual event aimed at raising awareness among Malaysians about the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness.
The Sun
09-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
NCEC approves EPR policy framework
PUTRAJAYA: The National Circular Economy Council (NCEC) meeting today approved in principle the proposed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Policy Framework and agreed to the mandatory implementation of eco-design. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said EPR was among the key focus areas of the ministry this year, emphasising the concept of government-private joint responsibility in managing solid waste. 'EPR is a crucial instrument in the circular economy, establishing joint responsibility between the government and industry to manage waste sustainably and responsibly, thus reducing the financial burden on the government in handling solid waste,' he said in a statement after chairing the NCEC meeting here today. Nga said the EPR Policy Framework developed by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) was the result of an engagement session with various stakeholders, particularly industry players. He added that the framework included key elements such as the EPR model, the determination of obligated companies, procurement targets, types of materials, implementation phases, and the roles and responsibilities of relevant stakeholders. Nga said the NCEC also approved four new policies aimed at driving the circular economy, including a proposal for the mandatory implementation of eco-design submitted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). He said this proposal included the development of mandatory policies, regulations, frameworks, guidelines, and eco-design standards. 'These eco-designed products will foster a culture of sustainable product use and boost consumer confidence,' he said. Nga also said the NCEC had agreed that, effective Jan 1, 2026, all shopping complexes must provide recycling facilities or drive-through recycling centres as a condition for local authority (PBT) premises licences. He said the council also took note of the 'KITAR: Peranti Lama, Nafas Baharu' initiative, implemented by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which emphasised the importance of managing e-waste efficiently and effectively through recycling and remanufacturing processes. In addition, Nga said PR1MA Corporation Malaysia (PR1MA) had launched the Recycling Programme at Komuniti PR1MA residences, in collaboration with the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleaning Corporation (SWCorp). He said the programme involved the purchase of used cooking oil, recycled goods, and activities aimed at raising public awareness of recycling. 'This initiative serves as an example that supports the blueprint for housing developers to provide facilities that support the circular economy and collaborate with the government in the transformation towards a low-carbon society,' he said. Nga said all outcomes of the NCEC meeting were in line with the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and the Circular Economy Blueprint for Solid Waste 2025–2035, which aimed to realise the national agenda for transforming solid waste management in accordance with the circular economy model. 'The KPKT will present the outcomes of this meeting for the Cabinet's consideration and approval,' he said. Nga also announced that Malaysia Cleanup Day would be celebrated on Sept 27 in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, with 100,000 participants representing various sectors, including ministries, government departments, industries, non-governmental organisations, educational institutions, security personnel, and the public. The programme is an annual event aimed at raising awareness among Malaysians about the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness.
Leaders
03-05-2025
- Science
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Launches 1st Smart Buoy for Marine Protection in Arabian Gulf
The National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC) has operated the first smart buoy in the Arabian Gulf at King Fahd Industrial Port in Jubail, according to the Saudi Press Agency. As part of the National Program for the Protection of the Marine and Coastal Environment, the new initiative seeks to activate 35 smart buoys in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf during the current year. NCEC General Manager of Monitoring Operations Anwar Alnahdi stated that the operation of these smart buoys has been witnessing unprecedented progress. The center has launched the first buoy in the Red Sea off Jeddah Islamic Port, followed by deployments in Yanbu and Jizan. Currently, they are extending to the Arabian Gulf with a bold goal to operate 35 buoys by the end of 2025. In the light of this ambitious vision, Alnahdi stressed that the Arabian Gulf's first buoy marks a significant milestone in environmental monitoring. Promisingly, it allows real-time data transmission from both the Kingdom's eastern and western coasts to its major ports. Moreover, the buoy will provide crucial data to boost environmental oversight and informed decision-making. Through smart sensors, the solar-powered buoys are capable of measuring various parameters, such as temperature, salinity, oxygen levels, dissolved solids, and specific chemicals. With a wireless system for real-time data transmission, the buoys provide swift detection and early response to pollutants. Related Topics: Saudi Arabia, UK Collaborate on Marine Biodiversity Projects KAUST Secures Japan Prize for its Advanced Marine Ecosystem Research Saudi Arabia Launches First Coastal Tourism Insurance to Boost Marine Activities Short link : Post Views: 25
Leaders
04-04-2025
- Politics
- Leaders
Saudi NCEC Boosts Environmental Quality with 670 Inspections in Ramadan
The National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC) announced that over 670 rigorous inspections were conducted in Makkah and Madinah during Ramadan 1446 AH to ensure air, water, and soil quality. These efforts aimed to safeguard the health of residents and millions of visitors to the Two Holy Mosques. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the NCEC reported an 88% compliance rate among environmentally impactful establishments, up from 74% in previous years. This milestone aligns with the center's mission to strengthen environmental accountability and enhance quality of life. Increased Compliance Rates The surge in compliance underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainable practices, a priority under its economic diversification strategy. Non-oil sectors now contribute over 50% to GDP, reflecting broader efforts to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons. NCEC's proactive approach ensures these goals remain on track. NCEC General Manager Omar Taha emphasized that inspections began before Ramadan and continued throughout the holy month. Advanced monitoring tools and national experts track environmental indicators 24/7, while collaboration with authorities ensures standards are met. 'These measures guarantee a healthy environment for all,' Taha stated. Saudi Arabia's Economic, Environmental Vision The inspections exemplify Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's leadership in advancing reforms, as highlighted by his recent appointment as prime minister in 2022. Environmental sustainability remains a pillar of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, with 2023 GDP growth showing resilience amid global challenges. By prioritizing environmental safety during Ramadan, Saudi Arabia reinforces its role as a global leader in sustainability and hospitality. These efforts ensure the holy cities remain safe and welcoming for generations to come. Short link : Post Views: 24
