Egypt’s environment minister showcases major strides in sustainability, waste management

Egypt’s Prime Minister Mustapha Madbouly met with Environment Minister Yasmin Fouad to review significant progress in the country’s sustainability and waste management initiatives. Fouad outlined the ministry’s ongoing commitment to environmental protection, waste recycling, and promoting sustainable development across various sectors.

Between January 1 and September 16, 2024, the ministry issued 1,682 environmental permits, supporting investors and fostering green industry practices. In her briefing, Fouad emphasized efforts to promote green industrial standards by collaborating with the Industrial Development Authority, conducting inspections, and finalizing a sustainable green industry project aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

“We are actively working to integrate sustainability into Egypt’s industrial sector while ensuring environmental protection through better waste management and green energy projects,” Fouad said.

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Significant strides have also been made in waste management. Over 6 million tons of non-hazardous municipal waste were removed from 54 locations across 10 governorates. Fouad highlighted the establishment of 25 intermediate waste treatment facilities and 12 recycling lines across various governorates, as well as the operation of 28 sanitary landfills. More than 590 companies have been licensed for waste collection and transportation, further boosting local green businesses.

The minister also updated the Prime Minister on waste-to-energy projects, noting that initiatives like the conversion of gas to energy at the Salam and Hammam Landfills are underway, with investments totaling $40 million. The Abu Rawash Wastewater Treatment Plant is also set to generate energy from sludge, with initial investments of €220 million.

Fouad detailed Egypt’s air quality improvement efforts, which included the collection of over 48,000 tons of rice straw. This prevented the release of approximately 5,401 tons of pollutants, leading to improved air quality in Greater Cairo and the Delta region. The ministry has conducted vehicle emissions inspections and launched awareness programs to further educate the public on environmental issues.

In terms of natural reserves, Fouad highlighted the development of the Gargana village in the Nabq Protected Area and upgrades to visitor services in the Wadi El-Gemal Protected Area. These projects are aimed at enhancing Egypt’s ecotourism and preserving its rich biodiversity.

“We are making significant progress in both protecting the environment and creating opportunities for sustainable development, ensuring a healthier future for our nation,” Fouad concluded.