7 Unique Eco-Friendly Gifts For Your Loved Ones

For environmentally-conscious individuals, buying gifts that will either harm the environment or go to waste is cringe-worthy. The waste from overdone wrapping paper, excess packaging, and ribbons or bows can be highly harmful to the environment if not correctly disposed of. By skipping the wrapping paper, avoiding single-use plastic, and reducing food waste, you can better take care of the environment.

Buying gifts for family, friends, colleagues or significant others is how most people celebrate special occasions. This spirit of kindness and generosity makes those occasions even more special. When finding a unique gift for your loved ones, there are several options to consider that are both unique and eco-friendly.

For instance, you can decide to get something beautiful and simple like a bouquet from a bouquet deal of the week offer. Nevertheless, there are plenty of other eco-friendly products that are readily available and a lot less expensive than one might think.

green gift for loved ones

What Eco-Friendly Gifts Would Be Perfect for Your Loved Ones

1. Growable Gifts

Plants and flowers are beautiful and valuable gifts that many people love, and they come at a very affordable price. A potted plant is an excellent eco-friendly gift for a loved one on any given occasion. Nevertheless, when choosing a potted plant, be sure to select a practical plant that comes in an attractive pot and can be used as a home decoration.

2. Coffee Cups

Drinking coffee is a culture that has taken root in the recent past. Although traditional single-use coffee cups are predominantly made from paper, they contain plastic lamination and have plastic lids that can not be composted.

Switching to reusable coffee cups is a great way to cut your plastic footprint. There is a wide range of reusable coffee cup materials such as ceramic cups, stainless steel, and tempered glass for you to choose from. Recycling of used coffee grounds is also a great way to show your concern towards environmental sustainability.

coffee-maker

3. Food Gifts

If you are thinking about getting a gift for someone who is culinary-minded or just loves cooking, you might want to get them homemade jams, a cooking recipe book, a food and fruit basket, a tea kit, or a culinary kit as gifts.

Such gifts would be considered unique since they express your appreciation for something your loved one is passionate about and that you put in the effort and thought into finding a suitable gift.

4. A Zero-Waste Travel Kit

Traveling is a significant part of most people’s lives; therefore, getting your loved one a zero-waste travel kit would come in handy. Making a DIY zero-waste travel kit is easier than you might think. After pulling together a few essential items such as lip butter, soap, a bamboo toothbrush, a handkerchief, and a foldable tote, all that’s left is assembling them in a box or small drawstring.

green-gifts-mom

Choosing to make a zero-waste kit for your loved one is a unique gifting idea that would contribute to a healthier environment and reduce plastic waste.

5. Handmade Gifts

If you are a crafty person, you can decide to make your loved ones handmade accessories and decorative items instead of getting them expensive gifts. You can make these gift items from cheap raw materials or by recycling used items around the house. Some handmade gift suggestions include handmade jewelry, jute crafts, homemade candles, among others.

6. Plant-Based Candles

Everyone would love to experience the sophisticated fragrance of their favorite scented candles or just enjoy the flickering lights. Still, all that color, candle wax, and perfume dissolve into the air you breathe and end up affecting you. Conventional candles such as tea lights and standard taper candles are either made from paraffin or animal fats, which are harmful to you and the environment.

plant based candles as gift

On the other hand, plant-based candles have a longer burn time and are cleaner and safer for your home environment. Plant-based candles are a great eco-friendly gift that your loved one is bound to appreciate.

7. Organic Soaps

When buying gifts for your environmentally conscious loved one, you have to ensure you go for an item that’s devoid of chemicals and is naturally grown. A gift whose ingredients will complement the recipient’s skin is one of the gifts that would be delightfully accepted. An organic soap that works well for different pore types and different skin types is an excellent example of such a gift.

Organic soaps are suitable for ensuring that your skin stays smooth, firm, and rejuvenated, and they contain additional healing properties for skin conditions such as sunburn, eczema, and acne. On the plus side, organic soaps come in a wide variety of scents. Since they are made from natural ingredients, organic soaps are not only good for your loved one’s skin but also completely eco-friendly.

Find a Unique Eco-Friendly Gift for Your Loved One Today

Eco-friendly gifts are both unique and exclusive and can also save you a lot of money while still helping you preserve the environment. By getting your loved one a gift that helps reduce the level of carbon in the environment, you are also encouraging them to develop more eco-friendly habits and preferences.

Consider the list of eco-friendly gift ideas outlined above to get a little inspiration on gifts that can make your loved ones pleased while contributing to a healthier environment.

Using Solar Energy To Bolster Business Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer a luxury for businesses but a necessity for thriving in the modern market. As environmental issues increasingly influence consumer choices and regulatory requirements, companies are looking for creative methods to cut down their carbon emissions and show their dedication to a greener future. Solar energy, with its plentiful supply and clean generation, is becoming a significant contributor to this sustainability movement.

solar energy and business sustainability

No matter the size of your business, whether it’s a small startup or a large corporation, this article offers useful insights and practical strategies to help you harness solar energy. By doing so, you can steer your business toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.

The Benefits of Solar Panels for Business

Switching to solar energy brings a host of benefits for businesses, turning it from just a trend into a crucial corporate energy strategy. Here are the main advantages:

Significant Cost Savings

A key incentive for companies to embrace solar power lies in the significant cost savings they can achieve. By producing your own electricity, you can greatly reduce or even completely cut your monthly energy bills. With electricity rates on the rise, solar energy gives your business a reliable and stable power source, protecting you from unpredictable market changes. Over time, these savings can add up to a significant amount, freeing up resources for other critical investments, highlighting the benefits of solar panels for business.

Energy Independence and Resilience

Solar energy can give a certain level of energy independence, decreasing your dependence on the traditional power grid. This can be particularly valuable during power outages or disruptions, ensuring that your business operations can continue uninterrupted.

Reduced Environmental Impact

By transitioning to solar energy, companies can greatly decrease their carbon footprint while showcasing their dedication to environmental responsibility. This shift not only aids the planet but also boosts your brand’s reputation, appealing to environmentally-conscious customers who value sustainable practices.

Long-Term Financial Gains

Although the upfront cost of installing solar panels may appear significant, it’s crucial to factor in the long-term financial advantages. Solar panels typically last 25 to 30 years and require minimal maintenance, providing consistent electricity and savings over their lifespan. Moreover, government incentives, tax credits, and rebates can greatly reduce the initial expenses, making solar energy a more appealing financial option. The return on investment (ROI) for solar power is generally very favorable, with many businesses recouping their initial expenditure within a few years and benefiting from decades of free or substantially lower energy costs.

tips to choose a solar panel

Implementing Solar Energy in Your Business

Transitioning to solar energy doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By adopting a systematic approach and collaborating with seasoned experts, you can effortlessly incorporate solar power into your business operations.

Assess Your Energy Needs and Feasibility

The first step is to conduct a thorough energy audit to understand your current energy consumption patterns. This assessment will help determine the size and type of solar system required to meet your needs. Additionally, consider the available space on your roof or property for solar panel installation. A solar energy expert can perform a site assessment, examining factors like sunlight exposure, shading, and roof orientation to determine the feasibility and optimal setup for your system.

Partner with Reputable Solar Installation Companies

Research and compare different companies, checking their credentials, experience, and customer reviews. Seek recommendations from other businesses that have successfully implemented solar energy. A reliable installer will assist you throughout the whole process—from designing the system and obtaining permits to installation and activation. They will also help you navigate available incentives and financing options to maximize your return on investment.

Monitoring and Maintenance

Solar panels require minimal maintenance, but regular inspections and cleaning can optimize their performance and longevity. Partner with your solar installer to establish a maintenance schedule and ensure your system is operating at peak efficiency. Many solar setups include monitoring software that lets you track energy production, spot potential issues, and see your overall savings. This data can be invaluable for optimizing your energy usage and maximizing the benefits of your solar investment.

Overcoming Challenges and Misconceptions

Despite the compelling benefits of solar energy, some businesses may hesitate due to common misconceptions or potential challenges. Let’s address some of these concerns head-on:

solar energy and business sustainability

Solar Panels Only Work in Sunny Climates

Although solar panels perform best in direct sunlight, they are still capable of producing electricity on cloudy days and in colder climates. Advancements in solar technology have significantly improved their efficiency in low-light conditions. Furthermore, many regions offer net metering programs, allowing you to sell excess energy back to the grid on sunny days, offsetting your energy consumption during less sunny periods.

Solar Panels Are Too Expensive

The price of solar panels has significantly dropped in recent years, making them a much more viable investment. Businesses can take advantage of various financing options, tax credits, and incentives to help reduce the initial costs. In many cases, the savings on energy bills can quickly outweigh the initial investment, leading to a positive return on investment in a relatively short timeframe.

Limited Roof Space

If your roof space is limited or unsuitable for solar panel installation, consider ground-mounted systems or explore options like solar carports or canopies. You can also investigate community solar programs, which allow you to purchase a share of a larger solar array located offsite.

Wrapping Up

Adopting solar energy is a strategic move for businesses focused on sustainability. Integrating this renewable resource supports environmental goals while offering significant financial and operational benefits. By investing in solar technology, businesses demonstrate leadership in sustainability, ensuring long-term advantages and aligning with corporate social responsibility initiatives. This commitment to renewable energy fosters a resilient and eco-friendly business model, driving both economic success and environmental stewardship.

Why Green Investments Are Crucial For Future-Ready MENA Region

Sustainability is no longer optional – especially in the landscape of business and economic growth. Today, this term has become synonymous with resilient and long-lasting economies, ready to face the future challenges and take preventive steps to safeguard the environment. In the MENA region especially, shifting the focus towards green investments may become essential for the long-term growth of local economies.

middle-east-sustainability-trends

By focusing on eco-friendly practices, countries can mitigate climate risks while securing economic growth. Additionally, green technologies promote energy independence and resource efficiency, attracting vital foreign investments.

Below, we’ll look at how, with sustainability at the forefront, the MENA region has the opportunity to build a future-ready economy that thrives in the face of global challenges.

Mitigating Climate Risks

Given the advancing climate crisis, it is easy to see how businesses in the MENA region must focus on sustainable practices to mitigate climate risks. By investing in green technologies, companies can reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental stewardship – essential steps to also prevent natural disasters in future years. Examples include adopting energy-efficient systems, minimizing waste, and using renewable energy sources.

For instance, rooftop solar panels not only cut down on electricity costs but also reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Similarly, water-efficient processes and recycling programs can minimize resource depletion.

renewable energy in UAE

For profit-focused companies, it is important to remember that these practices not only safeguard the environment but also enhance their reputation and operational efficiency in today’s economic landscape.

Securing Energy Independence

Energy independence means producing sufficient energy locally to reduce reliance on external sources. While complete energy autonomy isn’t always feasible, renewable energy offers a viable path to reducing reliance on other economies, countries, or energy sources which could be compromised due to conflicts and other socio-political events.

Solar power, wind energy, and geothermal resources are just some of the options to generate clean, local energy. In the MENA region in particular, solar energy stands out due to abundant sunlight. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are already pioneering large-scale solar projects, with wind energy farms also holding promise, particularly in coastal areas.

Attracting Foreign Investment

Foreign investments gravitate towards countries prioritizing sustainability. Sustainable FDI, as defined by the International Institute for Environment and Development, refers to investments that maximize sustainable development benefits while minimizing negative impacts.

Investors view this as a marker of stability and long-term viability, which makes them more prone to put capital at risk in areas where foreign investments are necessary for growth. For the MENA region, adopting green initiatives can signal commitment to a sustainable future, thus paving the way to more foreign capital.

When aiming at securing these investments, it is important for countries to choose effective financial instruments. One way is to find the best CDs, which offer secure and profitable investment returns. Selecting the right tools ensures that the influx of foreign capital is both sustainable and beneficial for long-term economic health.

green finance in middle east

Boosting Economic Growth

Sustainability is a critical driver of economic growth in the MENA region. Countries focusing on green investments are seeing substantial impacts.

For example, the UAE’s investment in Masdar City, a sustainable urban project, showcases how green initiatives can create job opportunities, boost technological advancements, and drive GDP growth.

Last but not least, by investing in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and clean transportation, MENA countries can diversify their economies, reducing dependence on volatile oil markets.

Enhancing Resource Efficiency

Enhancing resource efficiency involves optimizing the use of water, energy, and materials to achieve higher productivity with fewer resources – which, in turn, means adopting a sustainability-first approach to economic growth and development.

In the MENA region, in particular, certain challenges – like water scarcity – have become major barriers to full-scale developments. That’s where technologies like drip irrigation in agriculture and water recycling in industries become critical. Similarly, businesses and governments can significantly cut waste and lower operating costs with sustainable practices.

Ultimately, all signs point in one direction: sustainable investments and environment-first economic growth are essential for the long-term success of countries in the MENA region.

Environmental Sustainability in Qatar: Perspectives

In recent years, the concept of environmental sustainability is slowly, but steadily, getting prominence, both in the public and private sectors in Qatar. Mounting environmental pressure has led to the development of new initiatives in several state-owned and private companies. As a major fossil exporter and one of the wealthiest countries, Qatar should do its fair share in reducing domestic greenhouse gas emissions and developing strong climate adaptation plans.

environmental sustainability in qatar

Many companies are investing heavily in replacing old turbines, boilers, and furnaces, minimizing GHG and non-GHG emissions, and wastewater discharge. The new companies that were set up in last decade are adopting the best available technologies, and they are on a par of excellence with the global environmental standards. Because of national targets to minimize flaring emissions, all of the oil and gas companies have been marshalled under the national initiative by setting goals, allocating investment and monitoring the yearly changes. So far, this initiative has been remarkably successful. For example, the direct benefit of flaring reduction resulted in savings of natural gas and emissions.

The government should hasten its steps in developing a comprehensive climate policy framework addressing all sectors, with a special focus on energy-intensive industries. The industrial sector is the major contributor to country’s economy and will continue to retain this status for the next several decades. Therefore, the government and the industrial sector must prepare a comprehensive roadmap and strategic framework under the broader climate policy framework, such as “Industrial Decarbonisation Strategy”. The strategy must assess all possibilities of decarbonising the industry and set ambitious goals to minimize GHG emissions for the short and long-term.

In addition, the framework should focus on potential structural changes in the global market, technological dynamics or deployment of disruptive technologies, domestic institutional reforms, and relevant policies that can support decarbonization. The policy should foster the development and implementation of wide-ranging innovative low-carbon technologies, processes, standards, norms and legislations that enable decarbonisation of the sector by 2050. The legislative instruments should include emission caps, internalizing social and environmental costs and taxation on emissions for the industrial sector. This is also echoed in the first Natural Resource Management Strategy.

The government should press ahead with this proposition; expediting the creation of new regulations, developing a strong support system for large and small/medium sized industries and ensuring transparency and accountability. Methane is the second major source of emission from natural gas production and processing facilities. Many companies fail to measure/monitor methane emissions from their facilities. I suggest that the Ministry of Environment undertake a Methane Monitoring Initiative to measure methane emissions from extraction to delivery and also to prepare a standardization method for estimating and reporting emissions from different sources.

The Ministry must create an effective, well-functioning, transparent and less bureaucratic support mechanism for companies (medium/small scale industries or SMEs) that lack technical and financial capacity. There are several piecemeal initiatives started by different companies that are already helping in this direction. However, they are fragmented, lack coherence, monitoring, and reporting. It is important to compile all of the initiatives and develop key performance indicators and analyse the trend.

So far, there is only one project accredited under the Clean Development Mechanism (Al Shaheen Oil Field Gas Recovery and Utilization Project, started in 2007). The government should exploit all possible opportunities with regard to reducing emissions and increasing economic savings. These are remarkable achievements and these companies must be recognized for their activities. Likewise, policymakers should capitalize on these efforts and raise the bar and set definitive goals and strict timelines for implementation.

accidents-oil-industry

Al Shaheen Oil Field Gas Recovery and Utilization Project is the sole CDM project in Qatar

According to the Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 15 of 2011, the respective agencies must propose policies and action plans to reduce GHG emissions and set up a database within the requirements of the UNFCCC convention and Kyoto protocol. Unfortunately, there was no tangible response to this Resolution. So far, Qatar has published only one national communication. Under the initiative of Qatar Petroleum HSE, many companies started to publish their emission data in their annual sustainability report, however, some companies continue to withhold the data. Since it is a voluntary process, there is no incentive for companies to report.

It is strongly recommended that the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) and Ministry of Energy and Industry (MoEI) issue a joint decree for a mandatory GHG and non-GHG pollution monitoring and disclosure framework. The disclosure framework must include a well-designed surveillance system to ensure transparency and accountability. Additionally, the disclosure framework will be useful in documenting the trend of overall emissions and how the new policies, regulations and technological replacements are shifting the trend.

As a result of documenting emission trends, one can notice the effectiveness of energy management initiatives, which provides opportunities and encourage other companies to learn from best practices. Companies that emit more than 25,000 tonnes CO2eq should quantify, verify and publish in a single-window system that can be accessed by other ministries and the public alike.

منهاج النظام التربوي البيئي في المملكة العربية السعودية

تمت مناقشة المادة السادسة ضمن الإتفاقية الإطارية للأمم المتحدة بشأن تغير المناخ, و التي تُعنى بالتعليم البيئي و بالأمور المناخية ,في مؤتمر بون المناخي2013 و التحضيري لمؤتمر الأعضاء في نسخته التاسعة عشر ببولندا. تنص هذه المادة على نشر ثقافة التصدي لآثار التغييرات المناخية بين الشعوب عبر إدراج مواد مخصصة في المناهج التعليمية و إشراك الطلاب في إيجاد خطط و حلول للتعامل مع هذه العوامل المناخية. بالإضافة إلى ذلك يتم عقد ورشات عمل و ندوات لتنمية المعاهد و المدارس المعنية بهذا المفهوم من حيث تبادل الخبرات, و في تسهيل مهمة إيصال المعلومات و نشرها بين شرائح المجتمع.

يقتصر دور التوعية البيئية في المملكة على جهة حكومية واحدة ألاوهي الرئاسة العامة للأرصاد و حماية البيئة, و في عدة جمعيات متعددة غير حكومية-غير ربحية. و التي .لها أثر فعال .في نشر ثقافة الإستدامة البيئية و كيفية المحافظة على الموارد الطبيعية في المجتمع السعودي.

الرئاسة العامة للأرصاد وحماية البيئة

تولي المملكة حاليآ إهتمامآ شديدآ في مجال حماية البيئة. ويأتي ذلك في لائحة النظام العام و اللائحة التنفيذية الصادرة من الرئاسة العامة للإرصاد و حماية البيئة. تأسست هذه الرئاسة في هيكلها الحالي في عام 1401 هجري, و هي تحت رعاية سمو الأمير تركي بن ناصر بن عبدالعزيز. و يندرج في قوائم عملها أجندة تحمي موارد البيئة, أي من مهامها الترويج لطرق حماية البيئة لجميع القطاعات الخاصة و الحكومية. كوضع لوائح خاصة للتخلص من المخلفات الصناعية و البناء بطرق صديقة للبيئة. فلذلك شكلت الرئاسة العامة ما يسمى بالنظام العام بالإضافة إلى اللائحة التنفيذية. تنص هذه اللائحة على أنظمة تحث على حماية الموارد الطبيعية في المملكة و أيضآ تطبيق خطوات بيئية للقطاعات العاملة مع رفع المستوى البيئي في المجتمع و الذي من شأنه تحقيق مبدآ التنمية المستدامة في المملكة. من جهة أخرى تمثل الرئاسة العامة المملكة في المحافل الدولية المختصة في تطبيق مفهوم التنمية المستدامة.

جمعية البيئة السعودية

تأسست هذه الجمعية الغير ربحية في عام 1427 هجري. و تركز كل جودها في تنمية البيئة السعودية والعمل على تحسين أوضاع سكان المناطق والمحافظات التي تعاني مشاكل بيئية وكذلك في إيجاد برامج تنمية مستدامة. إضافة إلى العمل على تنمية العمل التطوعي وذلك بإيجاد قاعدة عريضة من المتطوعين والمساهمة في تعزيز دور القطاع الخاص لخدمة قضايا بيئية في مجالات المحافظة على الموارد الطبيعية والحياة الفطرية.

الجمعية السعودية للعلوم البيئية

و تأسست هذه الجمعية في عام 1427 هجري. بمبادرة خاصة من الأمير تركي بن ناصر مع جامعة الملك عبدالعزيز. و تهدف هذه الجمعية  إلى الرقي بالعلوم البيئية وتنمية الفكر العلمي في مجالات علوم البيئة ، والعمل على نشر الوعي البيئي وتمهيد سبل الاتصال وتبادل الخبرات بين المختصين والمهتمين ، وتقديم المشورة العلمية والنظرية والتطبيقية في هذا مجال لعديد من مجالات التنمية في المملكة.

دور القطاع التعليمي في نشر الإستدامة البيئية

لا شك أن في إدراج مناهج أو مواد في النظام التعليمي عن أهمية المحافظة على الموارد البيئية, بالإضافة إلى وضع أسس قائمة على بناء أساس جوهري بآثار تغييرات المناخ بين الطلاب قد يساهم و بشكل كبير في زيادة الوعي المعرفي بأهمية الحفاظ على البيئة. ناهيك عن التصدي للتحديات الحالية و المستقبلية في ما يخص بمجال تغيرات المناخ و الطاقة في السعودية. و الجدير بالذكر أن أحد الأمثلة الحالية و الواعدة في المجال التربوي هو برنامج مدارس الحس البيئي في المملكة والذي نفذته جمعية البيئة السعودية بالتعاون مع وزارة التربية والتعليم.

An Introduction to Smart Grid

A smart grid is an electrical grid that uses information and communications technology to gather and act on information, such as information about the behaviors of suppliers and consumers, in an automated fashion to improve the efficiency, reliability, economics, and sustainability of the production and distribution of electricity.

smart grid components

Smart grids are now being used in electricity networks, from the power plants all the way to the consumers of electricity in homes and businesses. The “grid” amounts to the networks that carry electricity from the plants where it is generated to consumers. The grid includes wires, substations, transformers, switches etc. The major benefits are significant improvement in energy efficiency on the electricity grid as well as in the energy users’ homes and offices.

What is a Smart Grid

In a typical smart grid, central management center controls all the units connected to it making sure to operate them at the highest efficiencies. The central management center does not only assist in better energy management inside the facility but also it helps in reducing the electrical consumption during peak times. This reduction is reflected as huge energy savings.

Benefits of Incorporating Solar Energy Technology In Construction

Man examining genaration of solar power plant, holding digital tablet with a chart of electricity production. Concept of online monitoring of the electric station

A smart grid also facilitates switch from conventional energy to renewable energy. In case of having a source of renewable energy in the facility, the grid allows an easy access to integrate it into the grid. Smart grid permits greater penetration of highly variable renewable sources of energy, such as wind power and solar energy.

Smart grid is a new gateway to a green future. It not only provides better energy benefits but also opens up new avenues of employment for youngsters. For example, conversion of normal operating units into smart ones capable of connecting to the smart grid is full of new and exciting opportunities. The global market for smart instruments is trending up with out-of-the-box ideas and innovations from young energetic minds.

Smart Grid Prospects in the Middle East

The Middle East electricity market is growing at an accelerating rate due to higher consumption rates in the private, commercial and industrial sectors. This results in the need for a successful implementation strategy that can bridge the gap between the current supply and increasing demand. A smart grid network makes for the ideal bridge where the goals of modernization can meet those of a reliable public infrastructure.

concept of smart grid

Regional countries such as UAE, Saudi Arabia and Jordan are moving ahead smart meter rollouts. The high incomes in those countries, high electricity consumption, and small populations will drive smart meter deployments in the medium-term. The technologies used and lessons learned in these deployments will then be diffused throughout the region.

Smart grid offers an excellent opportunity to modernize Middle East power infrastructure, lay the foundation for energy management, provide new employment opportunities and ultimately reduce region’s dependence on fossil fuels. The Middle East region has the highest per capita carbon footprint in the world which can be offset by deployment of smart energy systems.

In the last few years, the number of events, conferences and meetings focused on smart grid and smart energy has sky-rocketed in the Middle East. The growing amount of attention being paid to this area reflects an increased sense of urgency to meet the energy requirements of fast-growing population and sustain the rapid industrial growth across the region.

ادارة النفايات الصلبه في سلطنه عٌمان

تعتبر اداره النفايات لسلطنه عٌمان قضيه تحدي  بسبب اثارها السلبيه على البيئه والصحه العامه. مع تعداد سكاني يقارب 3 ملايين نسمه فان البلاد انتجت ما مقداره 1.6 مليون طن من النفايات الصلبه في عام 2010.  و يتعدى نصيب الفرد من انتاج النفايات  عن 1.5 كغم يوميا من بين اعلى المعدلات في جميع انحاء العالم. تتميز النفايات الصلبه في عُمان بان نسبه عاليه منها قابله لاعاده التدوير , يعد الورق بالمقام الاول  ويشكل ما نسبته 26% , بلاستيك 12%, معادن 11% و زجاج 5%. و مع ذلك فان عُمان لم تدرك بعد  الامكانيه العاليه لاعاده تدوير نفاياتها. معظم النفايات  الصلبه ترسل  الى مكبات  مرخصه وغير مرخصه لتدفن فيها مما يخلق قضايا بيئيه و صحيه. هنالك العديد من المكبات  التي تقع في وسط الاماكن السكنيه  او بالقرب من  اماكن تجميع المياه  الخاصه بمياه الشرب.

يتميز سيناريو اداره النفايات الصلبه في عُمان  بنقص في مرفق جمع النفايات و التخلص منها . النفايات الصلبه,النفايات الصناعيه , النفايات الالكترونيه وغيرها  تدفن في عشرات المكبات  المنتشره  في جميع انحاء البلاد. تضم عُمان حوالي 350 مكب/مدفن و التي تدار من قبل البلديات. بالاضافه الى ذلك هناك العديد من المكبات غير المصرح بها حيث يتم تفريغ جميع انواع النفايات فيها بشكل مستهتر.

يعد مكب العامرات اول مكب صحي  مصمم هندسيا في عُمان والذي بدأ عمله في اوائل 2011. موقع المكب يمتد على مساحه 9.6 هكتار, ويتكون من 5 خلايه و سعة اجماليه 10 مليون متر مكعب من النفايات الصلبه. كل خليه لديها 16 عمود لرعايه العصاره . كل الاعمده  متصله مع بعضها من اجل تسهيل  حركة العصاره الى مضخة الراشح. هذا المشروع هو جزء من مبادرات الحكومه لمعالجة النفايات الصلبه بطريقه علميه وصديقة للبيئه. كونها الاولى في نوعها, من المتوقع ان يكون مكب العامرات مثالا لمشاريع ادارة النفايات الصلبه المستقبليه في البلاد.

 

التخطيط للمستقبل

إدارة النفايات الصلبة هي من بين أولويات الحكومة العُمانية التي وضعت استراتيجية متينه لحل مشكلة إدارة النفايات في السلطنة. تسعى  البلاد جاهدة لإقامة 16  مكبا" صحيا" ومصمما" هندسيا، و 65 محطه تحويل النفايات و 4 محطات معالجة النفايات في أجزاء مختلفة من البلاد بحلول عام 2015.

العديد من مرافق إدارة النفايات الصلبة الحديثة يجري تخطيطها  في العديد من ولاية السلطنه ، وخاصة مسقط وصلالة. هذه المكبات الجديدة  سوف تمهد في نهاية المطاف الطريق لإغلاق مكبات النفايات المصرح  وغير المصرح بها في جميع أنحاء البلاد. غير ان استثمارات ما مجموعه 2.5 بليون ريال عماني مطلوبه  لوضع هذه الاستراتيجية لإدارة النفايات في مكانها.

بدأت  مؤخرا الشركة المملوكة للدولة عُمان لخدمات البيئه القابضة  (OESHCO)، وهي المسؤولة عن مشاريع إدارة النفايات في عُمان، عملية طرح العطاءات لثمانية مشاريع مهمة. وقد دعت  OESHCO مقدميي العطاءات من الشركات المتخصصة لتنفيذ مرافق المكبات الصحيه المصصمه هندسيا في بركاء، و الخدمات الاستشارية ل 29 محطه نقل و دعوة اثنين من مقدميي العطاءات  لخدمات إدارة النفايات في المنطقة الاقتصادية الخاصة القادمة (المنطقة الاقتصادية الخاصة) في الدقم، وغيرها.

ومن بين الأولويات العليا تطوير مكب  بركاء كموقع قائم  للتخلص من النفايات والتي تخدم ولاية بأكملها وولايات أخرى مجاورة في محافظة جنوب الباطنة، و التي تعاني من قضايا البيئة والصحة العامة.

The Concept of Environmental Education

Unlike traditional forms of education, Environmental Education is a holistic, lifelong learning process directed at creating responsible individuals who explore and identify environmental issues, engage in problem solving, and take action effectively to improve the environment.

As a result, individuals develop a deeper awareness and understanding of environmental issues and have effective skills to make informed and responsible decisions that lead to resolute the environmental challenges.

environmental-education

Environmental Education is neither environmental advocacy nor environmental information; rather, Environmental Education is a varied and diverse field that focuses on the educational process that has to remain neutral by teaching individuals critical thinking and enhancing their own problem-solving and decision-making skills in a participatory approach. The guiding principles of Environmental Education include awareness, knowledge, attitudes, skills and participation.

Basics of Environmental Education

Environmental Education can be taught formally in schools, classrooms, colleges and universities, or it can take place in informal learning contexts through NGOs, businesses, and the media, natural centers, botanic gardens, bird-watching canoeing, scuba diving and ecotourism. Besides, Environmental Education takes place in various non-formal education programs such as experiential outdoor education, workshops, outreach programs and community education.

According to domyessay, environmental educator should deliver Environmental Education in a unique way as it is not only based on science, but also concerned with historical, political, and cultural aspects with the human dimension of socio-economic factors. It is also based on developing knowledge on socio-ecological systems.

Environmental Education provides opportunities to children to build skills to become environmentally-smart, including problem-solving and investigation skills. Qualified environmental educators should work in the field, conducting programs, involving and collaborating with local communities, and using strategies to link the environmental awareness, building skills, and responsible action. It is through Environmental Education that citizens, especially children, can test various aspects of an issue to make informed, science-based, non-biased, and responsible decisions.

Environmental Education in Islam

Islam considers seeking knowledge as an obligation. Islam teaches its followers to keep streets clean, to help animals and any living being, prohibits the pollution of water, prohibits cutting down a fruitful tree and preserves the components of the environment. Islam also sets legislation for cultivating land and benefiting from it.

Additionally, Islam has strict teachings to prevent environmental deterioration caused by industrial development, urbanization, poverty etc. Islam organizes the relationship between humans and nature where it calls for its protection and enrichment through a comprehensive educational process.

Islamic teachings in preserving environmental components hold the sense of responsibility, sensitivity and sustainability. Such teachings were extraordinary at a time when the environment was not suffering the pressures it is suffering nowadays.

Environmental Education in Jordan

As far as Jordan is concerned, National Environmental Education efforts remain largely focused on programs organized by NGOs. For example, JREDS is a Jordanian NGO which became the national organization for the Foundation for Environmental Education. JREDS is implementing three international eco-labeling programs – Green Key, Blue Flag and Eco-Schools.

RSCN is another Jordanian NGO that designed Environmental Education programs to improve peoples’ general understanding and awareness of environmental issues. Activities of nature protection organizations have been instrumental in fostering significant cultural change.

Environmentally-literate citizens take active part in solving and reducing the impact of environmental problems by buying “green” products and using natural alternatives to pesticides to name two. However, the success of environmental programs adopted by NGOs will be difficult to sustain for future generations without continuing Environmental Education.

Environmental Education Outlook for Jordan

Jordan has typically centralized education system where teachers aren’t consulted about curricula. School curricula are mono-disciplinary, making interdisciplinary learning hard to apply. Despite environmental topics incorporation into curricula recently, still it is fragmentary. Jordan has a long way to go before a national strategy of environmental education can be totally implemented in its educational system.

earth-day-climate-literacy

Environmental education is the foundation for progress.

Jordan should employ a holistic Environmental Education program adopting sustainable development principles, and presenting green ideas that perceive handling the environmental issues as important target and offers various solutions to different environmental problems which has become a national scourge.

Ministry of Education should merge the eco-traditional knowledge effectively with leadership due to the link between the two, and empower the youth to participate in solving their own environmental problems as well as affecting the actions of public towards the desired goal, which is participating in solving the grim reality of environmental problems in the country.

The scientific community should also get involved in public relations efforts that enable communication of its research, in effective and understandable ways, to the organizations responsible for education.

Additionally, Jordan should adopt a holistic approach of zero-emission eco-schools throughout the country, eco-schools that relies entirely on renewables for their energy supply and be completely self-sustaining. The design shall adopt Earth building and be constructed out of locally sourced materials, while the geothermal energy will cool and heat it.

Furthermore, school garden and cleaning routines will use the harvested rainwater. Such an eco-school model, hold a bright future where students will eventually have access to a bright green education thereby facilitating a sustainable future.

طرق سهلة للبدء بالزراعة المائية

هل تساءلت مسبقاً إن كان بإمكانك زراعة أي نبات بدون تربة؟ حسناً، إنك تستطيع عمل ذلك الآن والفضل يعود لنظام الزراعة المائية. فبدلاً من استخدام التربة، فإن هذا النظام يساعدك على زراعة النباتات والخضار في محلول مائي مع بعض العناصر الغذائية اللازمة، ولا يتوقف الامرهاهنا، بل إن هذه الطريقة تجعل النباتات تنمو بشكل أسرع، وأيضاً تستخدم طول السنة، بمساحة أقل وإنتاج أكثر من الزراعة التقليدية.

benefits of hydroponic farming

من النباتات التي تستطيع انباتها بهذه الطريقة هي الخس والأوريجانو والطماطم وبعض الاصناف الأخرى، هذا النظام يعد من أفضل الانظمة للناس الذين ليس لديهم مساحة أرضية للزراعة أو البستنة.

لذلك، إذا لديك أي اهتمام بهذا الموضوع، فإنك – بلا شك – بالمكان الصحيح. وفيما يلي 5 خطوات سهلة لتبدأ الزراعة المائية الخاصة بك.

 نظام الفتائل

دعنا نبدأ بأبسط نظام (من الناحية الميكانيكية) وهو نظام البستنة المائية الداخلية – نظام الفتائل. حيث لا حاجة لأي أدوات كهربائية أو قطع متحركة أبداً.

وبالرغم من أن هذا النظام ليس الأفضل للنباتات التي تحتاج ماءً كثيراً مثل الخس أو الطماطم، لأنها تحتاج الكثير من العناصر الغذائية بصورة أسرع مما يوفره هذا النظام، ومع ذلك فإنه مثالي لبعض الاعشاب والفلفل وبعض الخضروات الصغيرة.

  1. تأسيس خزان للمياه: للبدء باستخدام هذا النظام، عليك أولاً تأسيس خزان صغير لحفظ الماء والعناصر الغذائية، ويوضع هذا الخزان أسفل صحن الإنبات.
  2. توصيل الفتائل لصحن الإنبات: قم بتوصيل فتيلة أو فتيلتين من خلال الفتحة الموجودة أسفل هذا الصحن، حيث ستبدأ هذا الفتائل بامتصاص الماء من الخزان وتوصيله الى الفتائل الموجودة/المتصلة بالصحن، ربما تحتاج أن تعد مزيداً من الثقوب بالصحن باستخدام مثقاباً أو مفكاً.
  3. صحن الإنبات: يجب عليك وضع صحن الإنبات الذي يحتوي على الشتلات فوق خزان الماء كما أسلفنا سابقاً. وحتى لا تُستنزف المياه بسرعة كبيرة، يجب استخدام المفعول الشعري للفتائل بصورة أكثر إنتاجية مثل استخدام البيرلايت والمخاليط بدون تربة وكذلك الفيرميكوليت.
  4. إضاءة مثبتة: إن صحن الإنبات يحتاج إلى إضاءة لكن بإمكانك تخطي هذا بتثبيت وحدة إضاءة فوقه، إذا كانت الإضاءة متوهجة فيجب وضعها على بُعد 24 بوصة من النبات.

طوافة الفلين (طوافة الخس) أو نظام الزراعة المائية

يعتبر نظام الطوافة المائية والمتعارف عليه بإسم الزراعة المائية طريقة بسيطة وكذلك سهلة الإعداد، نبدأ بوضع النبات في لوح من الستايروفوم، حتى يطفو فوق الوعاء/الخزان المليء بالمياه والعناصر الغذائية.

على العكس من نظام الفتائل، يجب أن نقوم بتهوية الماء عن طريق دمج نظام الطوافة. هذا النظام يعد من أفضل الانظمة لزراعة الخس، لكن النباتات الأخرى لا تنمو بشكل جيد بهذا النظام.

  1. تأسيس خزان للمياه: كما ذكرنا سابقاً، قم بملء الخزان بالماء والمغذيات، حاول أن تحصل على وعاء/حاوية غير شفافة ويكون عمقها حوالي 12 بوصة على الأقل، وتجنب استخدام حاويه شفافة.
  2. تهوية الماء: التهوية الإقتصادية والأكثر إستخداماً هي استخدام ما يسمى حجر الهواء و المضخة. حجر الهواء موجود في أغلب أحواض الاسماك، ويمكن تثبيته في الماء وتوصيله بمضخة هواء توضع خارج الخزان لتساعد المضخة بدفع الهواء عبر الحجر لإطلاق فقاقيع صغيرة في الماء لتوزيع الأكسجين. طريقة بسيطة وسهلة، أليس كذلك؟
  3. طوافة الإنبات: قم بقص لوح عائم من الستايروفوم لتتناسب مع الجزء العلوي من الخزان لوضع الطوافة المتوسعة، بعد ذلك قم باستخدام أوعية من الشبك. يتم حفظ الاشتال المتنامية الأوساط مثل البيرلايت أو ألياف جوزالهند أو كرات الطين في هذه الاحواض البلاستيكية ويجب أن تكون مثقوبة القاع، لأنها ستقوم بإيصال الجذور لمياه الخزان، لذا يجب أن تقوم بعمل ثقوب لإدخال الاحواض الشبكية.

how to get started with hydroponic farming

نظام المدّ والجزر

قد يبدو هذا النظام – والمسمى أحياناً نظام الفيضان والصرف – معقد التصميم، لكنه في الحقيقة قابل للتنفيذ. يعمل هذا النظام بغمر وعاء الإنبات بمحلول مائي مغذي، ومن ثم تصريفه وارجاعه إلى خزان المياه مرة أخرى.

  1. إيصال خزان المياه بأنبوب التعبئة والصرف: أنت بحاجة لوضع خزان المياه أسفل حاوية الفيضان المليئة بالماء والمغذيات، لحسن الحظ، فإنه بإمكانك أن تستخدم نفس المياه لمدة أسبوع في كل مرة. فقط يجب عليك التأكد من إضافة المغذيات بكل مرة تقوم بتبديل المياه.  وبعد ذلك استخدم أنبوب الصرف أو التعبئة لتوصيل خزان المياه بالوعاء، ليتصل هو الاخر بمضخة غاطسة بمنظم للتوقيت بتحكم تدفق الماء مرة أخرى لوعاء التغذية. هذه المضخة تساعدك بالتحكم بالنظام وبهذا تستطيع الري لوقت اطول ومكرر حسب ما يتطلبه النبات. ومن جهة أخرى فإن أنبوب الصرف يستخدم الجاذبية لسحب الماء إلى الخزان مرة أخرى بعد أن يتم غمره وبهذا تستطيع إعادة إستخدام المياه.
  2. إعداد وعاء الفيضان (المدّ): حتى يكون النبات منتصباً فإن صحن الانبات يجب أن يكون عميقاً، لذا قم بزرعه في أصص/أوعية ذات فتحات تهوية مليئة بالبيرلايت أو مواد زراعية أخرى. ولتأخذ بعين الاعتبار أن تجعل أوعية النباتات ضحلة بمقدار مرتين مثل وعاء الفيضان.

نظام الغشاء (الفيلم) المغذي

هذا هو نظامنا الرابع والذي يعمل بشكل مثالي مع النباتات سريعة النمو ذات الجذور الضحلة مثل الخس، الفجل، السبانخ والأعشاب.

هذا النظام يعتمد على استخدام تدفق مستمر للماء والمغذيات بمساعدة من وعاء الانبات، وهو مفيد لجذور النباتات الموجودة في الوعاء لتمكينها من امتصاص العناصر الغذائية من المحلول المائي، هذه النظرية تعزز فكرة أن نظام المد والجزر يعمل بشكل تيار مستمر بدون توقف.

  1. تأسيس خزان للمياه والتهوية: مثلما أسلفنا سابقاً، عليك القيام بتأسيس خزان صغير لحفظ الماء والعناصر الغذائية، ويوضع هذا الخزان أسفل وعاء الفيضان، وتحتاج أيضاً إلى إضافة فقاعة تهويه بداخله لأكسدة المياه، أي توصيل الاكسجين للماء.
  2. توصيل أنبوب الصرف والتعبئة والمضخة: قم بتوصيل الخزان بالوعاء باستخدام انبوب التعبئة والصرف، حيث أن أنبوب التعبئة – المتصل بمضخة غاطسة – سيقوم بتنظيم تدفق الماء العائد إلى وعاء الفيضان بعد عملية الفيضان مما يسمح لانبوب الصرف باستخدام الجاذبية بامتصاص الماء مرة اخرى إلى الخزان وبذلك تستطيع إعادة إستخدام الماء.وعلى العكس من نظام المد والجزر، فإن هذا النظام لا يحتاج إلى مؤقت لأنه يقوم بضخ الماء باستمرار.
  3. إعداد وعاء الإنبات: بدلا من استخدام الصينية المسطحة والضحلة، قم باستخدام الانابيب لاعداد وعاء الانبات، حيث يضمن لك استخدام انبوب أو حوض بلاستيكي دائري – موضوع بزاوية – وصول المحلول المائي والسماد الى الجذور مباشرة. ويمكنك أيضاً عمل عدة ثقوب بالانبوب لتتسع للشتلات او الاحواض الشبكية.

hydroponic farming

بالنسبة للطريقة الاخيرة فهي – النظام الهوائي

وتعتبر هذه الطريقة أكثر تعقيداً مما سبق لأنها تتطلب تعليق النباتات في الهواء ورشها كل بضع دقائق بمحلول الماء والعناصر الغذائية.هذه الطريقة فعالة وتتطلب وجود رشاشات ومضخات متطورة، وإذا تعطلت هذه الادوات فالاحتمال كبير أن تجف جذور النباتات وتموت بسرعة.

  1. تأسيس خزان للمياه والتهوية: مثل الطرق السابقة تماماً عليك أولاً القيام بتأسيس خزان صغير لحفظ الماء والعناصر الغذائية، ويوضع هذا الخزان أسفل وعاء الفيضان، وتحتاج أيضاً إضافة فقاعة تهويه به لأكسدة المياه. وممكن أن يعمل هذا الخزان كحوض تجميع لقطرات ورذاذ الماء المتساقط.
  2. توصيل مضخة غاطسة: قم بتوصيلها إلى البخاخ وهذا سيسمح بضخ المحلول المائي الموجود في الخزان عبر انابيب إلى جهاز الرشاشات أو البخاخ. كل ما عليك فعله هنا أن تتأكد بأن البخاخ/الرشاش مسلطاً إلى جذور النبات في وعاء الانبات.
  3. تجهيز وعاء الإنبات: حتى تجهز وعاء الانبات فانك تستطيع القيام بنفس خطوات الزراعة عن طريق الغشاء (الفيلم) المغذي وهنا تحتاج إلى تجهيز قنوات لتعليق جذور النباتات بشكل متساوِ.

أفكار نهائية

وحتى نختم موضوعنا، فأننا نأمل أن تكون مقالتنا هذه قد ساعدتك بمعرفة المزيد حول الزراعة المائية وعن مدى روعة النباتات المائية، ونأمل كذلك أن الانظمة الخمسة المذكورة أعلاه قد زودتك بالالهام لانشاء حديقتك المائية الخاصة بك وزراعة بعض النباتات بها.ربما يبدو الأمر صعباً لكنه بالحقيقة يعطي نتائج تستحق المعاناة.

يرجى التواصل بالتعليقات إن كان لديك حديقة مائية خاصة، وأيضاً لا تنسى أن تشاركها مع أصدقائك المهتمين والمتحمسين للزراعة.

نتمنى لك زراعة سعيدة

ترجمة: ماجدة هلسه

أردنية متعددة الإهتمامات، لديها من الخبرة ما يقارب السبعة وعشرون عاماً في مجال المالية والإدارة في المؤسسات المحلية والدولية، وتعمل ماجدة حالياً مع التعاون الدولي الالماني كموظفة مالية. ومع ذلك كله وعلى الصعيد التطوعي، فإن لديها شغفاً كبيراً بالترجمة في كافة المواضيع والمجالات، وقد بُني هذا الشغف بالخبرة الشخصية والعملية على مدى هذه السنين.

Note: The original English version of the article is available at this link.

Biogas Feedstock in the Middle East

Anaerobic digestion (or biogas technology) is the natural biological process which stabilizes organic waste in the absence of air and transforms it into biofertilizer and biogas. It is a reliable technology for the treatment of wet, organic waste.  Organic waste from various sources is biochemically degraded in highly controlled, oxygen-free conditions circumstances resulting in the production of biogas which can be used to produce both electricity and heat. Almost any organic material can be processed with anaerobic digestion.

food waste management

A wide range of organic wastes are available in the Middle East for anaerobic digestion. In addition to MSW, large quantity of waste, in both solid and liquid forms, is generated by the industrial sector like sugar mills, agro-processing, food processing, leather, pharmaceuticals and paper and pulp industries. Poultry waste has the highest biogas potential per ton of waste, however livestock wastes have the greatest potential for energy generation in the agricultural sector.

Here is the list of potential feedstocks for biogas production in the Middle East:

Agricultural Feedstock

Community-Based Feedstock

  • Organic fraction of MSW (OFMSW)
  • Sewage sludge
  • Grass clippings/garden waste
  • Food residuals
  • Institutional wastes etc.

Industrial Feedstock

  • Food/beverage processing
  • Dairy industry
  • Starch industry
  • Sugar industry
  • Pharmaceutical industry
  • Cosmetic industry
  • Biochemical industry
  • Pulp and paper
  • Slaughterhouse/rendering plant etc.

Anaerobic digestion is particularly suited to wet organic material and is commonly used for effluent and sewage treatment. Almost any organic material can be processed with anaerobic digestion. This includes biodegradable waste materials such as waste paper, grass clippings, leftover food, sewage and animal waste. The exception to this is woody wastes that are largely unaffected by digestion as most anaerobic microorganisms are unable to degrade lignin.

date-palm-biomass

Anaerobic digesters can also be fed with specially grown energy crops such as silage for dedicated biogas production. A wide range of crops, especially C-4 plants, demonstrate good biogas potentials. Corn is one of the most popular co-substrate in Germany while Sudan grass is grown as an energy crop for co-digestion in Austria. Crops like maize, sunflower, grass, beets etc., are finding increasing use in agricultural digesters as co-substrates as well as single substrate.

A wide range of organic substances are anaerobically easily degradable without major pretreatment. Among these are leachates, slops, sludges, oils, fats or whey. Some wastes can form inhibiting metabolites (e.g.NH3) during anaerobic digestion which require higher dilutions with substrates like manure or sewage sludge. A number of other waste materials often require pre-treatment steps (e.g. source separated municipal organic waste, food leftovers, expired food, commercial wastes and crop residues).

5 Ways You Can Get Comfortable While Eco-Camping

Do you love the great outdoors? If you do, eco-camping is a great way to connect with Mother Nature. For you to enjoy the sights, smells, sounds and textures of the outdoors, you need to camp comfortably. There are tips, tricks and even accessories which you can use to this effect. They help you to cook, relax and sleep comfortably.

Here are 5 ways that you can get supremely comfortable while eco-camping.

Establish a great camping ground

The first step to enjoying a comfortable camping experience is to create a superb foundation. Begin by arriving during the daytime. This allows you to enjoy ample illumination in your campsite. Check the ground where you intend to set up your tent.

Get rid of any loose stones, sharp objects or old tent pegs. Make sure that the camp ground is flat. In this way, ensure that it does not have any hollows that can collect rainwater. By establishing a good foundation, you’ll be able to pitch tent on a comfortable surface. If you are planning your camping trip during the hot summer season, do not forget to check out tent air conditioner guide from www.globosurfer.com

Get extra tent pegs

When you buy a tent, you’re supplied with some pegs. They may not be of the best quality that you can get today because they can break or twist. As such, it is important to get some extra tent pegs. As you do this, search for heavy duty tent pegs. These will stay in place no matter how bad the winds get during your camping experience.

Also, invest in a good rubber mallet because it comes in handy for fixing them properly into the ground. Furthermore, a peg removal tool is great for pulling them out of the ground once your camping activity is over.

Also Read: Reasons Why Camping is Bad for the Environment

Microfibre cloths for wiping away condensation

If you camp in a humid or wet area, your tent can develop condensation on the inner surface. It can drip on your furnishings and make everything damp. Not only can this cause the formation of dangerous mold, it can also result in respiratory problems.

As such, carry along some microfiber cloths. They are excellent for wiping away the condensation on your tent. They can help to keep it dry throughout.

Get good camp bedding

An essential element to remember if you want to maximize your comfort while camping is to use good camp bedding. Invest in a good quality camp bed. The half-foam, half-inflating camping bed is a great option. You can couple it with a thermarest compressible pillow. To complete the set, invest in a good quality sleeping bag. It should be warm and breathable.

Have ample lighting equipment

A camping experience is not comfortable without good lighting. For this purpose, it is necessary to carry along multiple sources of lighting. Examples of these are lamps, torches and spare batteries. Along with this, invest in a wind-up lantern. It ensures that you will never find yourself in the darkness.

If you can get lighting sources that utilize renewable energy, this is the best option because you will never run out of power. Moreover, it is an eco-friendly option.

Final Words

Eco-camping or green camping is fun and exciting. To enjoy this activity to the fullest, you need to be comfortable. The guidelines above can help you to achieve this. By maximizing your comfort, you can have an eco-camping experience full of great memories!

Business Waste Management – What Your Business Can Do Better

Have you ever wondered if your workplace has some policy regarding waste management that could be improved? Are you a business owner with the necessary awareness to manage a controlled environment where the production of waste is regulated or at least up to current standards? These are pretty valid questions in 2024, especially when corporate sensitivities are shifting to green initiatives and the adoption of energies due to the increasing requests of the world to regulate carbon emissions and save the planet.

rubbish removal services Sydney

There are quite a few approaches to business waste management on corporate levels that can be adopted by your company depending on its size. We will be exploring the various options you need to consider for your business in 2024 and beyond.

1. Full-On Waste Audit

You should have your employees doing a permanent audit on the waste created by the operations of your company.  The procedure itself doesn’t take too long once they get educated. The trouble comes with finding out what your doing wrong and what you need your employees doing.  You can hire this part out or do the work yourself.

The basic motions required are the placement of differentiated bins to collect the consumables that are recyclable as well as the ones that need to be disposed of organically. Once it is all sorted out, it is up to maintenance to get rid of it using the proper methods.

2. Reduce Storage Packages

One of the most effective forms to save money and create less waste for a company is to switch to plastic containers for distribution. Single-use containers built with cardboard used to be one of the most significant expenses for many multinational corporations.

Many of them switched to plastic containers that need little maintenance and almost no replacement to take their products from one place to another. This is one of the easiest ways, especially in the beginning of your company transformation, to reduce your waste production. You may also consider using roll pallet cages to reduce wastage during storage and transportation process.

3. Implement a No-Paper Policy in your Company

One of the greatest things about technology is that it killed many physicals forms of communication that required paper. You no longer need to print a memo to inform someone about the new regulations in your office.

recycled paper

An email can do the trick just as good. Since internal servers are a thing in most companies these days, putting them to work within your internal communication is the key to environmental awareness. This measure can help you reduce paper consumption to huge heights on nearly anything that requires writing.  It can even save the company at least one-third of the annual budget on supplies.

4. Replace Water Coolers

Old fashioned water coolers work with plastic bottled water. This is an archaic method. Consider water filters that take the water directly from the pipes. There have been some technological advancements in the field for some time now and you don’t have to give a second thought to the quality of water these filters produce.

Another quick environmental hack is to diminish the use of paper cups by encouraging your employees to bring their own coolers from home or by placing the water filter in the resting room along with a few reusable glasses.

home water filtration

5. Motivate your Employees

Many of these initiatives have excellent intentions, and most of them get to be pretty successful if there are intent and discipline on behalf of your personnel to follow these directives. Oftentimes though, they may need a little push. Try to create incentive programs or rewards by departments when any of them fulfill the company’s goals to handle waste at the workplace right way.

An Interesting Case Study

It may be surprising but you can actually increase profit margins while transforming your company into an earth saving organization.  I want to leave you with an actual case study of a business in Woodstock Ga that increased profits 33% by implementing intelligent and sustainable waste management.

They began by utilizing an environmentally aware company for waste management in woodstock ga.  In collaboration, they transformed their use of paper and plastic to reduce expenses extensively.  They went nearly 99% paper free by utilizing custom online software and changing their infrastructure to use email wherever possible.  They continued their efforts by exchanging cardboard to plastic.  This made it easy to reuse containers in a few primary operations.

Conclusion

We hope you can learn from the various companies doing things right and that you spend some time thinking on the various operations that could be using reusable materials and conserving energy.  Thank you for your support of our home, planet Earth.