A Ramadan conundrum.

It is said that over Ramadan in the Middle East, a further 25% of waste is added to landfills. This fact gave prompt to the pertinent issues that still contribute to the discussion on this thorny topic.

I believe a good barometer to a country’s sustainability record can be gauged on very simple observations - is the use of single-use plastics still habitual and what emphasis is placed on eco-friendly alternatives? Maybe this I can leave for you to ponder and come to your own conclusions. 

My involvement in reusing waste plastics in the Middle East has seen little to motivate and influence this juvenile industry. We lag behind the world in commitment, though we read that sustainability is moving to the forefront with a soon-to-be-hosted major global event claiming this criteria will be observed. Maybe now we will see a few hurdles overcome?

Recycling, especially in plastics has gathered much momentum in parts of the world where there is financial gain through schemes of either reward tokens or relief on rates and taxes. When there is positive impact to the wallet a noticeable reduction is seen at landfills. Another option is a more loaded stance - blanket bans on single-use plastics. People can adapt and change when directives are set and I have witnessed the success of this in parts of Africa.

We must do our part to change as we become more discerning and sympathetic to the green revolution. Policies must be adopted and products and attitudes supported as there are no alternatives to our well-being and that of our planet.