Transitioning to a Sustainable Waste Management System in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi

摘要

Well-conceived strategies, policies, infrastructure, environmental and health protection, economic approach, and social engagement are needed for achieving a sustainable solid waste management system. The Emirate of Abu Dhabi is early in the developmental stages of achieving such a system. As the Emirate continues to move toward a sustainable system, its processes and lessons learned can be adopted by other locations in the region to facilitate the transition to modern and sustainable waste management systems. Key lessons learned to date include the importance of: 1. conducting outreach and education campaigns targeting the public and other waste generators about positive waste management behaviors; 2. planning and developing solutions for both immediate needs and long term needs; 3. establishing waste-related policy and proper waste facility operational controls through facility permitting and inspection to minimize health, safety and environmental impacts; and 4. understanding available economic instruments and developing waste management financing strategies to match the increased cost modernizing waste management infrastructure and service provision. Future developments and lessons learned will continue to provide valuable insight and precedent for other locations in the Middle East, and globally, to follow.