How Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector is tackling medical waste to align with the Kingdom’s green vision

Special How Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector is tackling medical waste to align with the Kingdom’s green vision
Medical facilities generate large amounts of non-biodegradable and hazardous waste, which are harmful to the environment. (Shutterstock photo)
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Updated 07 September 2024
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How Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector is tackling medical waste to align with the Kingdom’s green vision

How Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector is tackling medical waste to align with the Kingdom’s green vision
  • Private medical facilities in Saudi Arabia are adopting sustainable waste management practices to minimize their environmental impact
  • Efforts to reduce, reuse, and responsibly dispose of medical waste are essential for achieving the Kingdom’s sustainability goals

RIYADH: When one imagines the worst culprits for commercial waste, many would rightly think of fast fashion, obsolete technology, and food retail. However, one surprisingly prolific offender is the medical community — responsible for vast amounts of non-biodegradable and often hazardous waste.

Mindful of their environmental footprint, private medical facilities in Saudi Arabia are doing their bit to help cut waste by encouraging the reduction, reuse, and recycling of packaging, using materials that are biodegradable, and responsibly disposing of dangerous substances.

Furthermore, many medical facilities are adopting technologies to improve energy efficiency and conserve water in line with the Kingdom’s promotion of corporate social responsibility and its commitment to sustainable development.




Dr. Rosanna Cavalletto. (Supplied)

Dr. Rosanna Cavalletto, who heads the Strategic Development Department at the Sijam Dental Clinic in Riyadh, became aware of the issue when she noticed the huge amount of waste produced by her profession.

“General waste dumpsters were filled with various types of possible recycling materials, such as plastic bottles, coffee cups, and disposable items used in our everyday practice,” Cavalletto told Arab News.

However, she was also aware that medical waste was not always being disposed of properly, including “specific types of hazardous wastes, such as dental amalgam,” she said.

Indeed, dental amalgam — a material used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay — consists of a powdered alloy made up of silver, tin, and copper, combined with liquid mercury.

“We cannot forget that mercury is one of the most toxic global non-radioactive pollutants worldwide,” said Cavalletto. “All amalgam waste must be properly disposed of to avoid air, water and soil pollution thereafter.

“Dental practices generate large quantities of waste, including household (non-food) waste, improper hygiene, clinical, hazardous, and food waste, which should be managed appropriately.”

Cavalletto, who authored the book “Save Your Health, Save the Planet: Dentistry for a Bright, Green Future,” launched the “non-medical waste separation” initiative in 2022 to encourage environmental responsibility among medical and cosmetic practitioners.

By mid-2023, the initiative had succeeded in getting new bins installed at Cavalletto’s dental practice, providing different compartments to separate different kinds of waste. But the waste management firm that collected them had another trick up its sleeve.

“The contractor for Sijam Clinics collects our waste full of recyclables weekly and provides us with data to measure the quality of our initiative, which drives us towards reducing environmental pollution,” said Cavalletto.

DID YOUKNOW?

• Medical facilities generate large amounts of non-biodegradable and hazardous waste, which are harmful to the environment.

• The Kingdom’s clinics are embracing waste reduction, reuse, and recycling, aligning with the Saudi Green Initiative.

• Innovative waste management initiatives encourage environmental responsibility and pollution reduction.

• Financial incentives and awareness campaigns are crucial for improving waste management in the medical sector.

The transition to better waste management among clinics has not been easy, however. “It was a difficult process with slow steps,” said Cavalletto.

“The truth is there is not enough knowledge about waste separation in dentistry. Making waste separation more convenient and accessible at clinics can encourage proper disposal habits and create a culture of environmental awareness.”

The picture is similar elsewhere in the Saudi medical sector. Abdulrahman Al-Rifai, an environmental engineer at the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority, said clinics are gradually improving their sustainability practices.




Abdulrahman Al-Rifai. (Supplied)

“In line with the Saudi Green Initiative, which focuses on reducing emissions, the sector can contribute significantly by adopting environmentally friendly technologies and waste management strategies,” Al-Rifai told Arab News.

“In recent times, companies have increasingly cooperated in the recycling process within the Kingdom to promote efficiency and resource recovery. However, coordination and infrastructure development remain critical for optimal performance.”

The Saudi Green Initiative, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2021, pays close attention to circular economy principles, promoting partnerships and innovation in the recycling industry.




Integrating recycling into waste management systems, boosting research and development, and encouraging public participation are essential steps to achieving the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, says Abdulrahman Al-Rifai, an environmental engineer. (Shutterstock) 

Al-Rifai, who worked in environmental engineering at Panasonic for four years, believes the medical sector requires strong government support, including financial incentives and awareness campaigns, if it is to improve its waste management.

He believes integrating recycling into waste management systems, boosting research and development, and encouraging public participation are essential steps. The Saudi Green Initiative provides a clear road map for achieving a more sustainable economy, he added.

Abdullah Aljumah, general manager at the Riyadh-based First Saudi Contracting Co., says environmental initiatives in the medical sector are integral to sustainable development and social responsibility.

The use of environmentally friendly materials, especially those that are biodegradable and low-toxic, also contributes to reducing negative environmental impacts, he told Arab News.

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Aljumah wants to see more support for research aimed at improving medical technologies and reducing their environmental impacts. Such initiatives, he says, are critical to balancing effective healthcare and environmental conservation.

To make these ambitions a reality, however, waste management firms will require sufficient investment and proper regulation.

Sultan Al-Harthi, executive director of corporate communications at Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Waste Management, known as MWAN, said that the center is promoting investment opportunities in the waste management sector.




Sultan Al-Harthi. (Supplied)

“MWAN aims to enable investors to access hundreds of lucrative investment opportunities in the waste management sector and to familiarize them with the regulatory and economic enablers provided by MWAN and other stakeholders to support the feasibility and success of these projects,” Al-Harthi told Arab News.

Over the past three years, MWAN has developed a comprehensive strategic master plan for the waste sector to build the required infrastructure based on fundamental circular economy principles.

“We’re encouraging innovative initiatives and building the necessary capacities to achieve the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives,” said Al-Harthi.




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“This is accomplished through extensive training programs, awareness campaigns, and initiatives promoting sustainable and circular waste management practices.”

He added: “We’ve focused on capacity building for workers across the waste management system in all sectors — government, private, and non-profit. Simultaneously, we’re increasing public awareness to achieve the sector’s objectives.

“We’re working side by side with our partners to offer integrated waste management solutions. Our goal is to enhance the capacity of private sector companies to channel investments towards environmental, economic, and social sustainability.”
 

 


Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season

Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season
Updated 23 November 2024
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Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season

Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season
  • Unique taste, aroma make it popular locally, internationally

RIYADH: The Asir region is currently in the midst of the Sidr honey season, with local markets flooded with high-quality honey produced from the nectar of Sidr trees.

The recent heavy rainfall in the region has led to a prolific flowering of Sidr trees, providing ideal conditions for bees to produce abundant and flavorful honey, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Sidr honey, which is renowned for its health benefits, is particularly prized for its antioxidant properties and ability to strengthen the immune system.

The unique taste and aroma of the honey have made it a sought-after commodity, both locally and internationally, the SPA reported.

Beekeepers in Tihama Asir have been busy harvesting the golden nectar, with prices ranging from SR350 to SR500 ($93-133) per kg.

The region’s diverse ecosystem, characterized by its fertile valleys and abundant flora, provides an optimal environment for beekeeping.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is actively supporting the development of the beekeeping industry. Initiatives such as the beekeeping and honey production development initiative improve practices, protect bee populations, and enhance the quality of honey.

By promoting sustainable beekeeping and preserving the natural habitats of bees, the Kingdom seeks to strengthen its position as a leading producer of high-quality honey while contributing to the global market.


Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability

Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability
Updated 23 November 2024
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Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability

Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability
  • Al-Ahsa event to promote communities’ role in economic growth

RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture will host the 1st International Forum for Saudi Reef in Al-Ahsa from Dec. 16-18, aiming to strengthen rural communities, and promote their role in driving sustainable development.

Maha Aldhahi, head of the forum’s executive committee, said: “The forum is pivotal in advancing rural development, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030. It will support rural communities, while contributing to global efforts and research on sustainable agriculture.”

Aldhahi said that the forum will unite regional and international experts to address the challenge of rural-to-urban migration, a widespread issue. To counter this, the forum will propose practical solutions to ensure rural areas remain economically viable, vibrant, and sustainable.

Additionally, it will explore innovations in agriculture and rural development, fostering economic growth and social cohesion through job creation and investment promotion, she added.

Aldhahi said that the forum builds on the Saudi Reef Program, recognized by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization as the world’s largest development initiative of its kind.

The program has supported over 77,000 agricultural projects, achieved a self-sufficiency rate exceeding 65 percent in vital sectors, and provided upskilling and career opportunities for rural communities.

Ghassan Bakri, secretary-general of the Saudi Reef Program, said: “The program is a model of sustainable growth, addressing food security and job creation while preserving cultural heritage. By hosting this forum, we aim to attract global partnerships and exchange cutting-edge solutions for rural empowerment.”

Bakri added that the forum will feature dynamic discussions on key topics, including sustainable agricultural practices, rural entrepreneurship, and the role of modern technology in agriculture.

The three-day event will also include an exhibition showcasing unique rural practices, handicrafts, and the work of local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. It will highlight how traditional techniques integrate with modern innovations to create sustainable livelihoods.


Kingdom arrests 19,696 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 19,696 illegals in one week
Updated 23 November 2024
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Kingdom arrests 19,696 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 19,696 illegals in one week
  • A total of 11,336 people were arrested for violations of residency laws

Riyadh: Saudi authorities arrested 19,696 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 11,336 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 5,176 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,184 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,547 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 65 percent were Ethiopian, 32 percent Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 71 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 22 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


Gaza victims praise Saudi Arabia’s lifesaving humanitarian efforts

Gaza victims praise Saudi Arabia’s lifesaving humanitarian efforts
Updated 23 November 2024
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Gaza victims praise Saudi Arabia’s lifesaving humanitarian efforts

Gaza victims praise Saudi Arabia’s lifesaving humanitarian efforts

Riyadh: Palestinians in Gaza who received Saudi aid have expressed gratitude to the Kingdom for its humanitarian support through aid agency KSrelief.

They likened the Saudi assistance to rain that quenches their thirst for hope, alleviates suffering and rekindles optimism amid immense challenges, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Samaher Eid Awkal, 47, said she struggled with health issues while living in Khan Younis with her blind mother in a basic tent. She thanked KSrelief for providing her family with a suitable tent, which has eased their hardship and restored hope.

A Gaza mother who endured freezing conditions with her children without shelter also expressed appreciation after receiving essential aid. She described the support as a source of joy and hope during difficult times.

Mahmoud Nabil Abu Alwan, displaced from Rafah to Mawasi in Khan Younis, thanked KSrelief after he received a new tent. He previously lived in a dilapidated tent borrowed from relatives amid shelling and harsh displacement conditions.


Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says

Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says
Updated 23 November 2024
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Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says

Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says

TOKYO: The Saudi National Orchestra’s performance in Tokyo is “bridging cultural boundaries” as part of Vision 2030, the CEO of the Kingdom’s top music body has said.

Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, added that music has a “very important part to play in each of the three main pillars of Vision 2030” as it represents a proud nation, a vibrant society and diversified economy.

Bringing the Saudi National Orchestra to Tokyo has given people the opportunity “to communicate with our language and it allows everybody to come together and share an experience that allows us to appreciate each other’s cultures, and really to be in harmony,” Pacifico said.

“And that’s why I think it’s so special that the orchestra is here for the first time.”

The program for the performance last night included traditional music directed by Saudi director Reab Ahmed, as well as the Japanese Imperial Court Orchestra “Gagaku.”

Pacifico said: “We’re able to show Saudi culture on one of the most prestigious stages in one of the world’s great cultural capitals here at Tokyo Opera City, and we’re doing that with authentic Saudi music, and authentic traditional Japanese music with Gagaku.

“But also with that great fusion between the two sets of musicians coming together and doing something really unique and beautiful.

“The Saudi National Orchestra and choir is really at the vanguard of developing the music landscape in Saudi Arabia as it builds the depth and richness and uniqueness of its beautiful culture, both traditional and modern.”

Pacifico said it was “an honor” to share the stage with the Japanese Imperial Orchestra performers. “It also shows how our cultures are different and yet similar: The regard for tradition and modernity, the appreciation of music, the sense of formality in public, but warmth and a sense of fun as well in private.”

He hoped that Friday’s performance was not a one-off but the foundation of a rich and longstanding collaboration with “our Japanese friends, the Tokyo College of Music, who we’re collaborating with on this concert.

“We hope that Saudi artists will start to have opportunities to play on stages here in Tokyo, like the Blue Note and Billboard Live and the Cotton Club, or festivals like Summer Sonic or Fuji Rock. And equally, we’d love to see Japanese artists playing more in Riyadh and all over the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“Saudi Arabia has a very exciting story to tell.”

This article originally appeared on Arab News Japan