A Primer on Biodiesel

By | |
4 Comments

Biodiesel is a clean burning alternative fuel produced from domestic, renewable resources. This biofuel is a mixture of fatty acid alkyl esters made from vegetable oils, animal fats or recycled greases. Where available, biodiesel can be used in compression-ignition (diesel) engines in its pure form with little or no modifications.

Biodiesel_Car

Biodiesel is simple to use, biodegradable, nontoxic, and essentially free of sulphur and aromatics. It is usually used as a petroleum diesel additive to reduce levels of particulates, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and toxics from diesel-powered vehicles. When used as an additive, the resulting diesel fuel may be called B5, B10 or B20, representing the percentage of the biodiesel that is blended with petroleum diesel.

Biodiesel is produced through a process in which organically derived oils are combined with alcohol (ethanol or methanol) in the presence of a catalyst to form ethyl or methyl ester. The biomass-derived ethyl or methyl esters can be blended with conventional diesel fuel or used as a neat fuel (100% biodiesel). Biodiesel can be made from any vegetable oil, animal fats, waste vegetable oils, or microalgae oils.

There are three basic routes to biodiesel production from oils and fats:

  • Base catalyzed trans-esterification of the oil
  • Direct acid catalyzed trans-esterification of the oil
  • Conversion of the oil to its fatty acids and then to biodiesel.

There are a variety of oils that are used to produce biodiesel, the most common ones being soybean, rapeseed, and palm oil which make up the majority of worldwide biodiesel production. Other feedstock can come from waste vegetable oil, jatropha, mustard, flax, sunflower, palm oil or hemp.

Animal fats including tallow, lard, yellow grease, chicken fat and fish oil by-products may contribute a small percentage to biodiesel production in the future, but it is limited in supply and inefficient to raise animals for their fat. Jatropha is a small pest- and drought -resistant shrub that is capable of being grown on marginal/degraded land and produces seeds that yield several times more oil per acre than soybeans.

Jatropha_curcas

Biodiesel can be blended in any proportion with mineral diesel to create a biodiesel blend or can be used in its pure form. Just like petroleum diesel, biodiesel operates in the compression ignition (diesel) engine, and essentially requires very little or no engine modifications because the biodiesel has properties similar to mineral diesel. It can be stored just like mineral diesel and hence does not require separate infrastructure.

The use of biodiesel in conventional diesel engines results in substantial reduction in the emission of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulates. There are currently a large number of existing biodiesel production plants globally, and a large number under construction or planned to supply the growing global demand.

Among alternative feedstocks, algae hold enormous potential to provide a non-food, high-yield, non-arable land use source of biodiesel, ethanol and hydrogen fuels. Microalgae have been grabbing biofuel attention because on an acre-by-acre basis, microalgae can produce 100 to 300 times the oil yield of soybeans on marginal land and with salt water. Microalgae is the fastest growing photosynthesizing organism and is capable of completing an entire growing cycle every few days.

Should You Add Sustainability Skills on a Resume?

By | | ,
1 Comment

As a job seeker, you have many skills, accomplishments, and experiences to discuss in your resume. Sustainability and environmental skills are part of the category you can mention to increase your chances of recruitment. Apart from your degrees, employers also require your skills to determine your success rate at the workplace. Sustainability skills in your resume can give you the cutting edge you need to land the job.

One of the representatives of the resume fixing service told us that writing a resume for most people is not an easy process. You can rely on online help to write the best resume for your job application. Their services are reputable for assisting different clients in obtaining their dream jobs. Writing a CV is a challenging task that needs professional writers to deliver the best resume.

sustainability-skills-CV

What Are Employers Looking For in a CV

Professionals with sustainability skills have a competitive advantage and are in a prime position to be recruited. These individuals can work in manufacturing facilities, retail stores, schools, government, hospitals, among other areas. Employers are looking for professional who are able to:

  • Develop and implement sustainable business practices
  • Understand the principles of energy production, consumption, and its impact on the environment.
  • Apply technology systems to support sustainable development in an organization
  • Promote sustainable strategies in the organization

Sustainability Skills are Always in High Demand

The financial incentive of implementing sustainable practices has made many fortune 500 companies adjust their policies. To achieve their business goals, companies require professionals with the right skills to take the challenges head-on. Employers require individuals who have these skills in their resume:

1. Communication and presentation skills

Employers want to see the instances that this particular skill was utilized. You can indicate whether you wrote public relations plans, spoke in front of multitudes of people, or listened to feedback.

2. Commercial awareness

It’s an essential skill, especially when showcasing research and analysis prowess. You can indicate your plans for sustainable goals, measure the campaign outcomes, and develop necessary metrics for analysis.

3. Organizational skills

Showcase instances whereby you organized meetings, solved issues, and implemented different campaigns.

Sustainability-Jobs-Fair

4. Leadership and staff management

Mention instances that you were required to step up and what you did in those instances. Indicate when you shared sustainability knowledge, motivated your team, or evaluated suppliers.

5. Stakeholder management

You can indicate whether you oversaw budgets, the creation of timelines, or prioritized and oversaw different projects.

Creating presentations, displaying emotional intelligence, and creativity and innovation are valuable skills in today’s market. They are evidence that you will add value to the organization you will join.

Future of Sustainability Careers

For success in sustainability initiatives, professionals must be solely focused on the organization’s goals. The rate of employment of professionals looking for new careers in sustainability is ever-growing. Its increasingly becoming an essential bit of business strategy and operations.

sustainability-jobs

Many companies have made serious commitments to align their mission, vision, and core values with some of these goals:

  • Energy-use reduction
  • Human rights and community development
  • Pollution prevention
  • Resource conservation
  • Transportation efficiency
  • Recycling
  • Waste elimination
  • Building design

What Jobs Require Sustainability Skills

Employers spend ample time reviewing the skills section of the CV. Here are some of the jobs that will require these skills:

  • Managing Director- Google Cloud Alliance
  • Strategic Planning Manager – Health and Sustainable Development
  • Consultant
  • Director
  • Product Development Manager
  • Managing Director
  • Project Manager
  • CEO – Digital Supply Chain

Conclusion

Sustainability skills are key in a CV. Highlighting the skills with valid experience of designing and developing sustainable improvements will make your CV stand out. Recruiters who value the sustainability of the organization will look for your expertise. This section will significantly improve your odds of getting hired. Demonstrating your interests in close proximity to the values of the organization will show the recruiters your capability.

Are Air Filters Eco-Friendly?

By | | , ,
1 Comment

We all want the air in our homes to be clean but we also want our environment to be clean as well. Even though most people want both of those things, they never stop to wonder if they might conflict with each other. In other words, they never stop to wonder if the air filters they use to keep the air in their home clean are also bad for the environment. As with most questions regarding environmental friendliness, the answer is complicated.

However, that should not discourage you from using air filters. They are very important in keeping the air in the home free from allergens and pollutants, which is especially vital if any of the home’s inhabitants have any serious respiratory problems. So even if you are worried about the state of the environment you should make sure that your home has an air filter since there are ways to be eco-friendly while still using an air filter.

hvac-air-filter

How Air Filters Affect the Environment

The way that an air filter affects the environment depends on the type of air filter that is being used. There are two types of filters, washable filters and disposable filters.

Disposable air filters are thrown away when they get dirty, which can contribute to landfill waste. Some filters need to be replaced every six weeks, which means that a lot of filters get discarded each year. This is not a problem with washable filters since they do not need to be replaced when they get dirty, they are simply cleaned and then reused. That makes them much better for the environment than disposable filters.

That being said, disposable air filters can contribute to the environment in a good way as well. That is because an air filter can make the HVAC system run more efficiently, which means that it uses less energy in general. That is good for the environment since lower energy usage contributes to a cleaner atmosphere. So the answer of whether or not air filters are eco-friendly depends on the type of filter being used.

Why Air Filters are Important

Regardless of their level of eco-friendliness, it is very important that you have an air filter in your home. They remove pollutants, allergens, and harmful particulate matter from the air. Not only do air filters keep the air in the home clean, they can also make the HVAC system run more efficiently and use less energy.

However, the air filter needs to be clean in order for that to happen since a dirty air filter can make the system less efficient. The reason is that it can be harder for air to pass through a dirty, clogged filter, which causes the system to work harder and use more energy.

Also Read: Environmental Impacts of HVAC Systems

Ensure Air Filter For Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system needs to have an air filter whether it is eco-friendly or not. An air filter is too important to be neglected because it is so important to the air quality in the home. If you are worried about your air filter being eco-friendly, then you should get a washable air filter.

It might take slightly more effort to maintain than a disposable air filter, but the benefit is that it is better for the environment. So it is possible to have an air filter that is eco-friendly that also does a good job of keeping the air in your home clean, you just need to choose the right one.

Eco-Friendly Additions You Can Make On Your House Before You Sell

By | | , ,
Leave a comment

If there’s one thing 2020 has taught us, it’s that life is unpredictable. One would think that with the global pandemic, the real estate industry, like many others, would come to a grinding stop. But, according to HomeLight’s Q2 2020 survey, it took a dip in the spring and as of June, it rose back to pre-pandemic conditions!

As this is a seller’s market, now would be the perfect time to sell your home. However, if you want to get the most you can for your home, you may want to consider doing some eco-friendly renovations and upgrades.

Here are a few eco-friendly home renovation ideas that may appeal to buyers.

1. Reclaimed materials

Whether you’re considering building a deck, remodeling your kitchen, or creating a patio, reclaimed materials are a cheap and eco-friendly option. For example, you can get reclaimed wood for a fraction of the cost if you were to buy the best wood for decks – up to 50% cheaper!. Plus, the reclaimed materials, especially wood, can add charm and personality to any design.

Tiny-Homes-Salvaged-Material

2. Upgrading to energy efficient windows

Energy efficient windows, especially large ones, can reduce heating costs. Triple glazed windows with fiberglass frames are the best choice for keeping the ambient air at the desired temperature. Also when replacing the windows, you have the opportunity to seal up any cracks where air can leak and install new weather stripping.

3. Reduce air leakage and improve air flow

Homes with a draft are horrible for your heat bill because the home will never maintain a steady temperature. Why, 40% of heat loss is due to gaps around windows, black steel doors, air ducts, and drafty walls!

Replacing the caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows aside, you can also add more or a higher grade of insulation in the attic, seal any loose fittings in the air ducts, install roman shades or roller shades over the windows and even use a draft blocker to the bottom for the doors.

IAQ

4. Upgrade to energy efficient appliances

If you have older appliances, you’re wasting a lot of energy! When you replace the older appliances with new, energy efficient appliances, your energy costs will drop significantly, providing the energy rating is a C and above (A being the most energy efficient option). These appliances include dishwashers, washers, dryers, refrigerators and freezers. They can also include boilers, central air conditioning units, ceiling fans, light fixtures and much more.

energy-conservation

5. Install solar panels

Solar panels are a fantastic way to be more eco-friendly and save on energy costs – with the potential to increase the value of your home. This is a huge investment (they can cost anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000) and it will require professional installation. However, depending on where you’re located, you may be able to receive tax credit for eco-friendly homeowners, rebates, and other incentives.

Off-Grid-House

Being eco-friendly isn’t just good for the environment, it’s good for the pocket book as well. The more energy efficient you can make your home, the lower your energy bill will be, and that is something that buyers will definitely appreciate. After all, who doesn’t like to save extra cash whenever they can?

Keep in mind that these are just a small fraction of things you can do to make your home more eco-friendly. Even if you aren’t interested in selling your home right away, these eco-friendly home improvements will at least give you peace of mind that you’re doing your part to limit your carbon footprint while saving money.

The Power of Cities to Shape a Greener Future

By | | , ,
1 Comment

The current rate of urbanization is one of the global megatrends, which will manifest itself in many of the challenges faced in the upcoming decades. UN reports estimate that nearly 70% of the world’s population will be urban by 2050. The way in which cities deal with this rapid rate of urbanization will determine whether international objectives such as Sustainable Development Goal 11, aimed at making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable, will be achieved.

Urbanization has further impacts on many more of the goals defined in the UN 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development. Achieving these goals will not only affect the quality of life in the respective metropolitan areas, but it also has indirect effects on challenges such as security and migration issues all around the world.

Sustainable Cities Are Not a Contradiction

Metropolitan areas are not known for their sustainability or ecological attention. Still today, many inhabitants of larger cities in countries of the Global South have a life expectancy of about half what they are in well-governed cities. If challenges of future urban development are not going to be adequately addressed, they could create massive problems associated with poverty, diseases and environmental catastrophes.

Properly managed, however, urbanization prospects present various opportunities for sustainable economic growth and human development. In addition to the potential for new sustainable infrastructure such as buildings and roads, urbanization will also create a demand for a whole range of new services. With many people moving to cities, new models of urban management related to energy and water supply as well as transport and security is needed.

Also Read: How Solar Energy is Contributing to a Greener Future

Potential of Metropolitan Areas

Urban areas feature characteristics with positive effects for sustainable growth. High population density makes it easier to ensure universal provision of infrastructure and services. A larger market potential in cities provide additional incentives for most businesses. Finally, cities as small entities can pass legislation faster and more effectively than their larger and tardier national counterparts.

Current developments in the US have underlined the potential of subnational levels of government to become new sources of hope when problem solving on other political levels seems to be blocked. As a reaction to the planned US withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, the State of California has decided to advance its clean energy program while Texas is striving hard to adopt sustainable urban development..

Cities have recently started to acknowledge their role as new, powerful actors in the global playing field when it comes to fostering sustainable approaches for their challenges. With the goal to address climate change issues on a city level, major cities have established the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group to collaborate and share knowledge for sustainable action. Another similar network is the UN HABITAT Cities and Climate Change Initiative. Such initiatives need to be multiplied: cities should embrace their role more and become aware of their potential to bring change.

Urban Sustainability in MENA

As for the rest of the world, urbanization is also a challenge for the Arab region. Already today, it is one of the most urbanized regions in the world, and estimates suggest 68% of the population will live in cities by 2050. There are also differences between the different Arab regions – in GCC countries for example, urbanization rates are even higher with up to 80% of the population living in cities. Key challenges for future urban development are amongst others, not surprising, the security of urban water and food supply.

There is momentum across the Arab region concerning plans for sustainable urban development, the most notable in the UAE with the Masdar City project. Initiated in 2006, the original master plan of the planned city project was aiming to achieve full carbon neutrality. Even though the project might not achieve all its defined targets, such initiatives are much needed in order to initiate similar projects in the region and to act as a flagship projects.

Achieving low-carbon, sustainable growth in Arab cities is a complex task.

In addition to Shams 1, one of the world’s largest solar thermal power plants, learnings from Masdar City also include knowledge about shade-giving construction design in order to save energy costs for cooling, solar air-conditioning, pilot tests of green transportation systems as well as sustainable supply chains. Finally, the use of wind towers which cools down Masdar City and has been traditionally used in countries of the Arab Gulf are innovations that could be implemented in the whole Arab Region.

Need for Increased Inter-Urban Cooperation

Achieving low-carbon, sustainable growth in urban areas remains an incredibly complex task. Cities should actively advance sustainability independent of national policies. However, in many Middle East countries with a highly centralized government, it is difficult for cities to push their own agenda. Cities can achieve their sustainability potential through increased network building with other cities, on a regional level with other Arab cities but also on a global level.

Knowledge as well as technology and best-practice exchange are needed for implementing complex concepts to achieve a sustainable development path. To implement sustainability measures successfully and manage increasingly large and complex urban systems, there is a need for better coordination between central and local level of government as well as an increased participation of private sector in urban development.

Information Resources

  1. United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2014). World Urbanization Prospects: The 2014 Revision, Highlights (ST/ESA/SER.A/352).
  2. Daniel F. Runde, “Urbanization, Opportunity, and Development,” Center for Strategic and International Studies, 2015, accessed September 2, 2017, https://www.csis.org/analysis/urbanization-opportunity-and-development.
  3. Hubert Heinelt and Wolfram Lamping, „Städte im Klimawandel: Zwischen Problembetroffenheit und Innovationserwartung“, Forschungsjournal Soziale Bewegungen 27 (2014): 79-89.
  4. Katja Schäfer, „Urbanization and Urban Risks in the Arab Region”, UN-Habitat Regional Office for Arab States (ROAS)
  5. Suzanne Goldenberg, Masdar’s zero-carbon dream could become world’s first green ghost town, The Guardian, accessed November 11, https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/feb/16/masdars-zero-carbon-dream-could-become-worlds-first-green-ghost-town

Circular Economy in GCC: Potential, Prospects and Challenges

By | | ,
1 Comment

The concept of a circular economy has been gaining a lot of momentum on the agenda of many countries in recent years. In its core, it describes an economic model which opposes the current so-called linear economy, where output is produced, used and disposed at the end of its lifespan. In contrast, circular economy advocates suggest a model in which raw materials used during the life cycle of a good are completely reintegrated into the production process.

Circular economy, therefore, means more than just to recycle your old appliances, but includes considerations about how to redefine products and services in order to minimize negative impacts.

circular_economy

Key Motivations

In a world with finite resources, non-renewable raw materials will be depleted in a few decades. At the same time, available landfills for accruing waste material will be exhausted. In order to tackle both of these developments, circular economy uses nature’s material cycle as a role model. Through the cascading use of materials the concept aims to achieve production with minimal waste and emissions.

Economic, Social and Environmental Benefits

Circular economy gained attention as a concept because it provides an opportunity to conserve resources, energy and thus prevent climate change, but at the same time is compatible with economic growth, job creation and a raising standard of living. Because economic growth is decoupled from growth of resource use, it finds supporters with different backgrounds.

Circular Economy has been around for centuries

It is important to note that circular economy is not a complete novelty. It was the rapid economic development and a tendency towards “throw-away-societies” in the Global North that lead to the “rediscovery” of the concept in the end of the 20th century. Original human economic activities in agriculture have always been circular, feeding production waste (e.g. excretions) and residues (straw, ashes) back into the production cycle. In certain traditional economic systems in countries of the Global South, this concept is still in use.

Progress Around the World

The European Commission has introduced a Circular Economy Package in 2015, following which EU member states and regions started to implemented different types of policies to support the transaction towards a circular economy in different ways. The Netherlands for example has committed itself to implementing a circular economy in a holistic and long-term strategic way. Other member states, such as Belgium and Germany have decided to implement smaller, more short-term initiatives that support a circular economy model.

In other parts of the world, circular economy is also a widely discussed subject. China for example passed a law for the Promotion of the Circular Economy already in 2008, and circular economy objectives are featured in the Chinese five-year economic plans.

A detailed country study for the economic potential of a circular economy development path for has been published last year for India, one of the largest emerging economies. The report shows that such a path would bring India annual benefits  of US$ 624 billion in 2050 compared with the current development path. This study basis its conclusions on economic analysis of three important areas for Indian economy and society: cities and construction, food and agriculture, and mobility and vehicle manufacturing.

Circular Economy Momentum in the GCC

In general, there is not much circular economy momentum visible when analyzing current legislation in GCC countries. As the legislative frameworks in the Arabian Gulf countries are different than those of Western countries, issues such as recycling and environmental protection are not among the state priorities.

Among the GCC countries, UAE has the most ambitious plans. Their Circular Economy Policy 2031 includes ambitious targets on the treatment of waste, the development of renewable energy and water recycling, which are all policies to support a transition towards a more circular economy. Furthermore, the emirate of Dubai aims to increase recycling rates and attain 75 percent waste diversion from landfills by 2021, which is an ambitious goal.

uae-circular-economy

Among GCC nations, UAE has the most ambitious plans for transition to circular economy

It is no coincidence that the focus of UAE’s 2021 vision targets waste. Circular economy strategies employed in many emerging and also in developing countries nowadays are falling under the category of waste management. This is mainly due to two reasons: waste is first of all an apparent and tangible problem, and secondly it requires substantial investment in infrastructure and personnel.

Potential and Challenges in the Gulf States

Research has shown that a circular economy development path can have substantial additional economic benefits for emerging economies, and furthermore reduces negative externalities. Moreover, the relative scarcity of resources other than oil and gas in the Gulf states would provide an incentive to embark a path towards a more circular economy. The concept has the potential to lead to reduced waste production, a smaller dependence on imports of raw critical materials; more employment opportunities as well as decreased environmental impacts.

However, GCC member states face also major challenges when implementing circular economy policies. With an economy lacking diversification and without a major share of manufacturing industry, some areas where there would be levers to apply circular economy concepts are not existing.

Recommended Reading

Murphy C. & Rosenfield, J. (Eds., 2016). The circular economy: Moving from theory to practice. McKinsey Center for Business and Environment

Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2016). Circular Economy in India: Rethinking growth for long-term prosperity. Available on: http://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/publications/

Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2013). Towards the Circular Economy: Economic and Business Rationale for an Accelerated Transition.

van Buren, N & de Vries, M. (2017). Europe goes Circular. Outlining the implementation of a circular economy in the European Area. EEAC Working group on circular economy.

السماد من المخلفات الغذائية في المنزل

By | | ,
Leave a comment

يضيف البستانيون والمزارعون السماد بشكل عام إلى التربة لتحسين خصائصه الفيزيائية، فالسماد ببساطة هو مادة عضوية متحللة – يمكن أن يكون غُصين مادة عضوية، ويمكن كذلك أن يكون قشر الموز والبيض. سنتعرف في هذه المقالة على كيفية الاستفادة من المخلفات العضوية في منازلنا وتحويلها لسماد عضوي.

مؤخراً ساهم انتشار الوعي البيئي والاهتمام بالصحة في نمو الطلب على الأطعمة العضوية والطبيعية خصوصاً تلك المزروعة في المنزل. وبات الناس مهتمين أكثر بتبني الممارسات المستدامة في منازلهم؛ ومن ذلك إنتاج السماد الطبيعي في المنزل من خلال إعادة تدوير النفايات العضوية بداءً بالمخلفات الغذائية إلى أوراق الشجر المتساقط في الحديقة.

food-waste-disposal

لماذا (الكومبوست) يفيد البيئة؟

إن عملية الكومبوست أي التسميد مفيدة بشكل كبير للبيئة، ليس فقط لأنها تقلل من فضلات الطعام ونفايات الحدائق التي عادة ما يتم التخلص منها بطرق غير مستدامة بيئياً، بل تساعد بشكل كبير في تقليل كمية انبعاثات غازات الاحتباس الحراري خصوصاً غاز ثاني أكسيد الكربون وغاز الميثان. حيث يعد التسميد طريقة لتقليل انبعاثات الميثان وانبعاثات الكربون، ولكنه يفعل أكثر من ذلك بكثير. نظرًا لأن الكومبوست يستخدم مخلفات المنزل البيولوجية، فإنه يقلل من الحاجة إلى الخيارات من الأسمدة الكيميائية، والتي عادة ما تكون قاسية على الأرض. من ناحية ثانية يعد الكومبوست جزء مهم من دورة النيتروجين؛ حيث تحتاج النباتات إلى تربة غنية بالنيتروجين لتنمو بشكل كامل، ولذلك يعتبر الكومبوست من أحد الطرق الطبيعية لإعادة تخصيب التربة وزيادة المواد العضوية فيها.

الأمر الذي يعني أيضاً الحاجة إلى كميات أقل من الأسمدة الكيماوية الاصطناعية لتغذية النباتات، مما يساهم في إنتاج مزروعات صحية. كذلك يساعد الكومبوست في جعل التربة الطينية أكثر تهوية ويساعدها على التصريف بشكل أفضل، كما ويساعد التربة الرملية على الاحتفاظ بالمياه وعدم تسربها. كما يساعد على المحافظة على توازن درجة الحموضة في التربة. يساعد السماد على الاحتفاظ برطوبة التربة حتى تقل كمية الماء يساهم الكومبوست أيضاً في تحسين البُنية الفيزيائية للتربة حيث يحسن مسامية التربة وجعلها أكثر لزوجة وثقيلة مما يساعد جذور النباتات على وعضوية يزيد السماد أيضًا من ثبات التربة المقاومة والصمود أمام عوامل الطقس المختلفة. وكذلك يساعد الكومبوست في استخدام كمية أقل من الماء حيث يساعد السماد في الاحتفاظ بالرطوبة.

composting-qatar

يعد التسميد في المنزل (الكومبوست) طريقة رائعة لتقليل النفايات التي تذهب إلى مدافن النفايات أو محطات إعادة التدوير. ومن ناحية أخرى، عندما يذهب الطعام الموجود في سلة المهملات إلى مكب النفايات، فإنه ينبعث منه غاز الميثان، وهو أحد غازات الاحتباس الحراري المساهمة في تغير المناخ. الفوائد البيئية الأخرى لاستخدام الكومبوست في تحسين التربة المتدهورة وجعلها قادرة على التجدد بشكل طبيعي، إضافة إلى كبح آفات النباتات. كما ويشجع  على إنتاج البكتيريا والفطريات المفيدة التي تحلل المواد العضوية لخلق الدبال.

مكونات السماد (الكومبوست)

السماد هو عملية طبيعية تحول المكونات العضوية الخام إلى مادة عضوية غنية تسمى (الدبال) تنتج عن تحلل الفرش الحرجي، عبارة عن مادة إسفنجية بنية داكنة أو سوداء ناعمة أو تشبه الهلام تحمل الماء ومغذيات النبات يساعد التربة على احتواء الماء والهواء. يتكون السماد (الكومبوست) من عدد من العناصر الغذائية مثل: النيتروجين، الفوسفور، البوتاسيوم، كما يتكون من العناصر الكيميائية مثل: النحاس والحديد والمغنيزيوم والكبريت، وبذلك يوفر المغذيات اللازمة لنمو النباتات بعد أن تُنبت البذور في التُربة.

ما الذي يمكن تسميده؟

يمكن تقريبًا تسميد أي شيء من بقايا الخضار والفواكه وقشور البيض ونوى الفكهة وبقايا القهوة وأوراق الشجر المتساقطة وهناك قائمة طويلة من الأشياء التي لا يمكنك تسميدها – ومعظمها تنطبق على المنتجات الحيوانية. من السهل جدًا أن تبدأ بصنع السماد أو الكومبوست في المنزل باستخدام خامات بسيطة من المنزل مثل إعادة تدوير الصناديق الخشبية. يوضع الصندوق المخصص للكومبوست في مكان مشمس حيث تساعد حرارة الشمس على سرعة تحلل خليط أو كومة الكومبوست. وبشكل عام يحتاج الكومبوست إلى أربعة مكونات رئيسية لبدء عملية التحلل وتشمل: النفايات ذات اللون الأخضر مثل أوراق الأشجار والأعشاب، النفايات البنية مثل الأغصان القديمة الجافة، والماء، والكائنات  الحية الدقيقة مثل البكتيريا.

نصائح سلمان ظَفَر في العمل البيئي

By | | ,
Leave a comment

سلمان ظَفَر ؛ مؤسس مبادرة EcoMENA يتحدث لِباڤاني براكاش من المبادرة التطوعية ( طوق آسيا الأخضر -Green Collar Asia  ) عن توجهات الصناعة النظيفة , ويعرض نصائحاً للمحترفين الذين يحاولون دخول مجال الطاقة المتجددة و إدارة المخلفات .

Salman-Zafar

طوق آسيا الأخضر : كيف أصبحت مهتماً بشدّة بتقنيات الطاقة المتجددة و إدارة المخلفات ؟

سلمان ظَفَر : إنني حاصل على شهادة الهندسة الكيميائية . وبعد إنهائي لبرنامج الماجستير في عام 2004 , حصلت على فرصة العمل كزميل بحث في مشاريع طاقة الغاز الحيوي واسعة النطاق والتي ساهمت ببداية دخولي مجال إدارة المخلفات والطاقة الحيوية .

 أثناء مسارعملي في الزمالة , كنت مشاركاً في تصميم , تشغيل إكتشاف  الأخطاء و إصلاحها في محطات تحويل النفايات إلى طاقة و مشاريع الطاقة   الحيوية الأخرى . فكرة تحويل المخلفات إلى طاقة نظيفة و مفيدة ناشدتني بقوة , و بعد إكمال تعليمي في 2006 بدأت كتابة المقالات و المدونات عن الطاقة الحيوية و إدارة المخلفات والتي لاقت استحساناً حول العالم .

رجل سويدي قام بقراءة أحد مقالاتي و أعجب به بشدة لدرجة أنه قد طلب مني تحضير تقرير شامل عن وضع الطاقة الحيوية في جنوب شرق آسيا و منذ ذلك عرفت أن لا رجعة من الآن فصاعداً .

طوق آسيا الأخضر : ككاتب رائد في آسيا و الشرق الأوسط في هذا المجال ، هل تستطيع إعطاءنا نظرة عامة عن توجهات إدارة المخلفات في هذه المنطقة ؟

سلمان ظَفَر : التزايد السريع في عدد السكان , ارتفاع مستويات المعيشة و النقص في توافر أماكن للتخلص من النفايات ساهم بإحداث أزمة بيئية كبيرة في آسيا و الشرق الأوسط . مجالس البلديات تجد صعوبة بالغة في التعامل مع جبال النفايات المتجمعة في المناطق السكنية و حولها . تخفيض حجم و كتلة مخلفات المدن قضية حرجة خصوصاً في ضوء قلة توافر أماكن للمكبات في عدة أجزاء من العالم .

السوق العالمية لتقنيات إدارة النفايات الصلبة أظهرت نمواً كبيراً خلال السنوات الأخيرة و قد بلغت 150 مليار دولار أمريكي مع استمرار نمو السوق خلال إنكماش الإقتصاد العالمي .

على مدى العقد المقبل , من المتوقع أن تستمر معدلات النمو بالإزدياد , بقيادة التوسع في الأسواق الأمريكية والأوروبية والصينية وآسيا والمحيط الهادئ والهندية . المدن الآسيوية و الشرق أوسطية أيضاً تسعى لتحديث البنى التحتية لإدارة المخلفات و قد بدأت بجدية في النظر إلى تكنولوجيا تحويل النفايات إلى طاقة كبديل مستدام لمكبات النفايات حيث تتخلص منها بينما تولّد طاقة نظيفة أيضاً .

طوق آسيا الأخضر : ما هي الدوافع المطلوبة لتكنولوجيات تحويل النفايات إلى طاقة ؟ أي نوع من السياسات الداعمة سيكون مساعداً ؟

سلمان ظَفَر : تكنولوجيات تحويل النفايات إلى طاقة لا يمكن ان تزدهر دون الدعم السياسي , التشريعي و المادي من قبل أصحاب السلطة . إن التعاون الوثيق وطويل الأمد بين البلديات , المخططين , مطوري المشاريع , شركات التكنولوجيا , قطاع الخدمات , المستثمرين والجمهور العام أمر لا غنى عنه لنجاح أي مشروع لتحويل النفايات إلى طاقة .

استرداد الطاقة من النفايات يجب أن يتم قبوله عالمياً كونه الركن الرابع في برنامج إدارة النفايات المستدامة الذي يتضمن  تقليل , إعادة استخدام و إعادة تدوير ( ال R الرابعة في دائرة  Reduce , Reuse and Reduce ) . ومن الحقائق المثيرة للإهتمام أن بلدان (مثل السويد والدانمرك وألمانيا) التي خفضت الإعتماد على مدافن النفايات لديها أعلى معدلات إعادة التدوير، وقد حققت ذلك بالإقتران مع عملية تحويل النفايات إلى الطاقة.

طوق آسيا الأخضر : ما هي المناطق التي تستثمر أكثر من غيرها في الطاقة المتجددة ، أو بالأحرى أين ترى الكثير من النشاط في هذا المجال ؟

سلمان ظَفَر: الصين , الولايات المتحدة , ألمانيا , الهند والبرازيل يشهدون قدراً كبيراً من النشاط في قطاع التكنولوجيا النظيفة . حققت الصين تقدماً سريعاً في قطاع الطاقة المتجددة ، خاصة في مجال طاقة الرياح ، حيث استثمرت أكثر من 6 مليار دولار أمريكي في مختلف مصادر الطاقة المتجددة عام 2012 . الهند من بين الوجهات الرئيسية لإستثمارات الطاقة المتجددة مع أكثر من 6.85 مليار دولارأمريكي يصب في مشاريع الطاقة الشمسية والرياح والطاقة الحيوية في عام 2012. كما حققت البرازيل استثمارات قوية في مجال الطاقة النظيفة، وهي الرائدة في سوق أمريكا اللاتينية .

طوق آسيا الأخضر : بصفتك متحدثاً رئيسياً وعضواً في العديد من الفعاليات ، هل ترى نمواً في عدد المؤتمرات في مجال الطاقة المتجددة وإدارة النفايات ، وتوفرمواقع جديدة لها ؟

سلمان ظَفَر: نعم، كان هناك انتشار كبير في المؤتمرات الأكاديمية و كذلك الصناعية في السنوات الأخيرة . وقد استحوذت الطاقة المتجددة على اهتمام صناع القرار والمؤسسات الأكاديمية والشركات ورجال الأعمال والعامة  بسبب المخاوف المتعلقة بالإحترار العالمي والتلوث الصناعي و تضاؤل احتياطيات الوقود الأحفوري .

في الواقع ، تعمل الدول الغنية بالنفط مثل الإمارات , قطر والمملكة العربية السعودية على مشاريع الطاقة النظيفة الكبيرة للتخفيف من الآثار البيئية الضارة لصناعة النفط والغاز وزيادة احتياطيات الوقود الأحفوري .

وفيما يتعلق بالأماكن الجديدة لمؤتمرات التكنولوجيا النظيفة ، هناك بلدان تقع محط الأنظار مثل الإمارات العربية المتحدة , الهند , الصين وسنغافورة .

وقد ازداد الحماس العالمي تجاه الطاقة المتجددة والتقنيات النظيفة زيادة كبيرة في السنوات الأخيرة ، ويجري تنظيم مئات المؤتمرات والمعارض كل عام في وجهات و أماكن غير معروفة حتى الآن ، مما يساعد بالتأكيد على زيادة الوعي البيئي والتطوير الوظيفي .

وقد استحوذت الطاقة المتجددة على اهتمام صناع القرار والمؤسسات الأكاديمية والشركات ورجال الأعمال والعامة

طوق آسيا الأخضر : ما هي المهارات والكفاءات المطلوبة في هذا المجال ؟

سلمان ظَفَر : المهارات المطلوبة في وظائف التكنولوجيا النظيفة هي تقريباً نفس أو أقل من تلك المطلوبة للوظائف التقليدية . وتعتبر القدرة على نقل المهارات التقليدية إلى مشروع الطاقة النظيفة عاملاً حاسما لأيّ مهنيّ في مجال العمل . وتستند وظائف الطاقة المتجددة بشكل كبير على مجالات المعرفة الأساسية مثل الرياضيات والعلوم والهندسة والتكنولوجيا . وللحصول على التميز ، من المفيد الحصول على المعرفة والخبرة المتخصصة في مجالات كفاءة الطاقة ، إدارة النفايات ، السياسات البيئية ، إدارة الموارد الطبيعية ، الاستدامة  وأدوات النمذجة الحاسوبية وغيرها .

وهناك مجموعة واسعة من الوظائف المعروضة في قطاع التكنولوجيا النظيفة مثل المديرين ، مشغلي العمليات ، المحللين ، المهندسين ، المتخصصين في تكنولوجيا المعلومات ، مهندسي النظم والمصممين والفنيين وما إلى ذلك .

طوق آسيا الأخضر : ما هي النصيحة التي تقدمها للمحترفين الذين يدخلون هذا القطاع ؟

سلمان ظَفَر : كونها قطاع صناعي جديد نسبياَ ، فمن المستحسن عدم تسرع الأمور أثناء دخول قطاع التكنولوجيا النظيفة . التركيز على التعليم الخاص بك في مجالات المعرفة الأساسية هي الخطوة الأولى نحو مهنة الطاقة النظيفة . هناك انهيار من للوظائف في هذا القطاع ، ومفتاح النجاح فيه هو استخدام مهاراتك القابلة للنقل للحصول على وظيفة الأحلام .

ترجمة 

علا المشاقبة

ناشطة بيئية تحمل شهادة البكالوريوس في إدارة الأراضي والمياه من الجامعة الهاشمية (الأردن). وقد شاركت في العديد من المبادرات البيئية منذ أيام جامعتها. وقد تطوعت في السابق مع فريق “jo greeners” التطوعي – ” Green Generation” الآن – كمديرالشؤون الداخلية ، وترتبط أيضا مع إكومينا كمتطوع .

The Rationale for Renewable Energy Adoption in Middle East

By | | , ,
8 Comments

The Middle East energy sector has played and will continue to play an important role in the regional as well as global economy. The oil and gas sector is the largest economic sector in the region. In addition to satisfying energy needs for economic and social development, it is the source of oil and gas export revenues contributing to economic development.

Regional countries are heavily dependent on fossil fuels to meet their domestic energy demand. Oil contributes more than half of the total energy demand in the Middle East while the rest is contributed by natural gas. Widespread use of fossil fuels has led to severe impact on the environment. The high rate of population coupled with rapid industrialization has led to tremendous increase in energy demand which, in turn, is contributing to significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

In recent years, the clamor for renewable energy has increased significantly in the Middle East which may be attributed to concerns regarding global warming and depletion of fossil fuels. Regional countries whose environments are extremely intensive in terms of the carbon emissions and energy usage, like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, have taken concrete steps and developed strategies to produce clean energy on large-scale to lower carbon footprint and foster sustainable development.

During the last few years, UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have unveiled multi-billion dollar plans to improve renewable energy scenario in their respective countries. The most notable example is the Masdar City of Abu Dhabi and NEOM of Saudi Arabia that has developed a holistic approach to tackle global warming and implement sustainable energy technologies. It will be a sustainable, zero-carbon and zero-waste modern urban habitat. The Masdar City strives to promote innovation and sustainable urban development in a modern cleantech cluster and free economic zone. Another important objective is to involve and support youngsters in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

The world’s biggest oil-producer, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is investing heavily in clean energy technologies to ensure a better future for the coming generation. One of the top priorities of the country is to harness the tremendous solar energy potential available across the country. Saudi Arabia’s interest in renewable energy is a big morale-booster for less-developed regional economies, like Jordan, Egypt and Morocco, to develop ambitious clean energy programs.

Conclusions

Large-scale renewable energy investments and new sustainable development projects are transforming the Middle East into the ultimate destination for clean energy technologies which will not only lower carbon footprint of the region but also reduce the cost of solar, wind and other renewable energy systems. The world’s dependence on Middle East energy resources has caused the region to have some of the largest carbon footprints per capita worldwide. The region is now gearing up to meet the challenge of global warming with the rapid growth of the renewable energy sector.

Mass deployment of renewable energy systems is a necessity in the Middle East as the region is grappling with environmental issues like industrial pollution, water scarcity and unsustainable energy consumption. A successful transition from fossil fuel-based economy to one dependent on renewable energy resources will usher in a new era of peace, prosperity and security in the Middle East.

Reducing Energy Poverty is Crucial to Sustainable Development

By | | , ,
1 Comment

The world is currently facing an unprecedented health crisis, and as usual the vulnerable communities are hit the hardest.  Energy poverty (or lack of access to electricity) is worsening the humanitarian crisis amid COVID-19 pandemic, and is preventing the poor from securing social benefits and economic opportunities.

Electricity, in modern life, is the foundation and lifeline for communities and economies to run and thrive. There is a growing international acknowledgement of the strong ties between poverty and lack of access to modern energy. For example, in impoverished communities, peoples’ well-being is in grave danger, because of the use of dirty and very primitive fuels (forest wood and animal waste). Moreover, rural women and young girls spend excessive time in collecting wood for fuel in order to meet their basic household needs.

domestic-cooking-rural-areas

Therefore, where there is no modern source of electricity, there is human suffering, lack of access to economic opportunities, and limited opportunities to get healthcare or education. Access to electricity is a key to uprooting people from poverty.

Nowadays, more than 840 million people live without access to modern energy resources and 2.8 billion people rely on primitive domestic heating options to meet their daily heating and cooking needs.  Sub-Saharan Africa has the lowest energy access rates in the whole world – around 789 million people are living without any access to electricity.

Forecasts shows that even with current international efforts to achieve universal energy access, 650 million people will still lack electricity access by 2030. Thus, without access to clean, modern source of electricity power, it would be impossible to achieve the UN internationally agreed sustainable development goals (SDGs) to eradicate poverty and enable for social and economic development.

For example, replacing open fires in poor communities with clean cooking stoves, would save the lives of 800, 000 children who annually die from exposure to indoor pollution. Not forgetting that women and girls are threatened with loss and sexual harassment when go out to search for biomass fuel.  That is why SDG#7 call for action to “ensure access to affordable, reliable and modern energy for all by 2030” that is including universal access to electricity and clean cooking by 2030.

Energy Access Matters

Energy plays a crucial role in poverty eradication. Consequently, access to modern source of power is central to achieving the interconnected goals for the SDGs among them social and economic development aims. Energy poverty is conceptualized as a twin of poverty. The lack of access to sustainable and clean energy fuels and services is described as energy poverty.

cooking-stove-eco-friendly

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), in order to lift people from poverty, energy access is fundamental in reducing poverty and improving health, increasing productivity, enhancing competitiveness and promoting economic growth. When access to affordable forms of energy, the vicious cycle evolves around poverty will eventually vanishes.

Ending energy poverty will contribute to building better future opportunities such as job creation, economic growth, agriculture, and education and health services. Finally, access to modern electricity should not be the end in itself; it is about advancing inclusive bottom-up solutions that will enable achievement of sustainable development priorities to end poverty.

Everything You Need to Know About Recycling of Glass

By | | ,
8 Comments

Glass and bottles are a large component of waste due to their weight and density consisting of bottles, broken glassware, light bulbs and other items. The glass bottle use is not much declining due to rising consumers, high consumption and introduction of a variety of soft drinks and juices. Glass recycling is at a minimum in many countries due to lack of segregation, awareness and economic reasons. Management of glass bottles is a major challenge as it takes millions of years to degrade glass naturally.

glass-recycling

Glass bottles and jars are 100% recyclable and can be recycled endlessly without any loss in purity or quality. Over a ton of natural resources are saved for every ton of glass recycled. Energy costs are reduced 2-3% for every 10% cullet used in the manufacturing process. Glass that is crushed and ready to be remelted is called cullet. One ton of carbon dioxide is reduced for every six tons of recycled container glass used in the manufacturing process.

Every metric ton of waste glass recycled into new items saves 315 kilograms of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere. Recycling a glass jar saves enough energy to light a bulb for four hours. The world’s best glass recycling practice is in Switzerland where 91% of manufactured glass is recovered for recycling.

Glass is to be separated from other recyclable waste and kept in recycling containers. Glass collection points, known as Bottle Banks are very common in the developed countries where most collection points have separate bins for clear, green and amber glass as re-processors require glass separated by colours.

The use of the recycled glass as aggregate in concrete has become popular in modern times. This greatly enhances the aesthetic appeal of the concrete. Recent research findings have shown that concrete made with recycled glass aggregates have shown better long term strength and thermal insulation due to better thermal properties of the glass aggregates.

There are environmental, economic and social advantages of recycling glass. These advantages include conserving valuable natural resources and raw materials used in industry. By making products from recycled materials instead of virgin materials, we conserve land and reduce the need to drill for oil and deep excavations for minerals. Making products from recycled materials creates less air and water pollution than making products from virgin materials.

glass-recycling-guide

Saving energy reduces acid rain, global warming and air pollution. Making products from recycled ingredients often uses much less energy than producing the same product from raw materials. Saving landfill space is another major advantage. Making glass from recycled material requires only 40% of the energy necessary to make it from virgin materials.

To support glass recycling, a deposit system as levied earlier needs to be practiced requiring consumers to pay deposit per container which could be refunded to anyone who returned the container for recycling.

Let us support the environment by re-using the glass containers and bottles, minimizing its usage and avoid disposing it after use. Glass bottles can be re-used for storing other material and as flower holders and for decoration purposes.

How To Start Off-The-Grid Living

By | | , , ,
Leave a comment

The concept of off-the-grid living is gradually growing, aided with the global campaign for a better and sustainable living environment. This alternative lifestyle choice involves total disconnection from basic public utilities, including power, water, and telephone lines.

While it’s an admirable process, it involves thorough preparation for those who want to try it. Here are the basic steps involved in getting an off-the-grid living started.

1. Build A Functional Living Space

The first thing you’ll need to practice your off-the-grid lifestyle is a functional housing set-up influenced by your personal preferences. The first choice for habitation concerns whether you want a completely disconnected lifestyle from the city or a self-sufficient life.

Off-Grid-House

If you’re looking to disconnect entirely, you’ll require a location change. The simplest process involves building or buying a house in a village or town. For the option of a more sustainable lifestyle, you can gradually disconnect from the power grid while taking advantage of some perks of living in the city, such as cycling, riding transit buses, and walking.

2. Ensure a Sustainable Water Source

Water is the next necessary aspect of your off-the-grid life. You’ll need a reliable and clean water source to ensure sustenance in your new home. This is made possible by multiple water sources you can create in your new home, including:

a. Underground Water Systems

This is the most expensive off-the-grid water option, including wells and borehole systems. A well is dug to varying depths between 75 ft. to 300 ft. while a borehole can be sunk from 300 ft. to 1,000 ft. Both systems require a solar or wind-powered pump which delivers the water into your home.

b. Pond

Both natural and human-made pools are great water sources for off-the-grid living. Pond water can be used for recreational purposes such as swimming, farmland support systems for livestock and crops, and domestic use when treated.

c. Streams and Creeks

These are naturally occurring water sources, and if you want access to either a stream or creek, your off-grid home must be strategically located around one. Perennial streams can cater to all your water needs either by manual hand-drawing or a pumping system.

3. Install Alternate Energy

Even if you’re already off-the-grid, you’ll still need an energy source to run several tasks that would still require energy consumption, including outdoor and indoor lighting, laundry, and appliances. Alternatives include the following renewable energy sources:

a. Solar Energy

Solar energy is the most applicable and sustainable renewable energy source. Its energy cycle is powered by photovoltaic (PV) panels, which capture the sun’s rays to provide you with clean energy. You’ll require a battery system to store excess energy from the PV panels to keep your facility powered longer.

b. Hydropower

Hydropower is dependent on the amount of water available at your off-grid home, such as one close to a stream or with constant running water. You can harness this power by using a micro-hydroelectric generator. It’s best installed by professionals to ensure a steady flow and adequate vertical drop of the water source.

c. Wind Energy

The application of wind-powered energy sources is also dependent on the average wind speed within the area. The wind speed witnessed in each area can be checked using appropriate authority websites. The minimum wind speed required is 9 mph and a turbine rated within the range of 5-15 kilowatts.

4. Compost and Grow Your Own Food

Composting is a dated yet effective method of soil improvement and fertilization. This eco-friendly process naturally decomposes domestic organic waste such as yam peels, rotten tomatoes, and vegetables within a soil mass. The compost is then added back to the farm soil to boosts plant growth, plant disease resistance, and maintain soil water and aeration.

backyard-garden

Composting facilitates the cultivation of organic farm produce, which will enormously boost your off-the-grid living capabilities. It’s advised that you invest in planting a mix of annuals, biennials, and perennials to ensure food security. The benefits of producing and consuming organic food include healthier meals, improved air quality, and environmental responsibility.

5. Have a Backup Energy Source

A backup energy source is required to insure yourself against any weather-driven energy shortages in your alternate energy sources. This is because there are sometimes drastic reductions in wind speed, water, and sun levels. This will mean experiencing a time-dependent power shortage the moment you’ve expended your battery storage capacity.

Permanent and portable generators are practical backup energy sources that can recharge your battery backup whenever it requires recharging. A permanent generator may have auto-start functions and higher power ratings, but it could be more expensive than portable generators.

Off-the-grid living could also benefit from including an alternate energy source such as integrated solar power systems.

Conclusion

The trend of using alternate energy sources has contributed to the gradual adoption of integrated battery systems as a backup energy source to support the alternative lifestyle of off-the-grid people. But for a more successful unplugged life, you’ll need a sustainable water source, as well as homegrown food and composting, to pull it off.