RIYADH: Seeking to promote waste management solutions, King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Co. has signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Investment Recycling Co.
This agreement was signed during an event titled “Achieving National Targets in Waste Management and Recycling”, held recently in Riyadh.
The MoU to collaborate to provide integrated solutions for different types of waste was signed by SIRC CEO Ziyad Al-Shiha and Gautam Sashittal, CEO of KAFD DMC.
Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the event, Al-Shiha said: “SIRC has developed a robust recycling infrastructure that includes collection centers and material recovery facilities. These facilities are equipped with advanced technologies to sort, process and recycle different types of waste, including plastics, paper, metals and electronic waste.
He said his company believed in sorting and segregating waste at the source. “We encourage individuals, businesses and communities to separate recyclable materials from general waste to maximize recycling rates and minimize disposal in landfills.”
The official said the SIRC promotes the concept of extended producer responsibility, which holds manufacturers responsible for the entire life cycle of their products, including their disposal. “By implementing EPR programs, SIRC ensures that producers take responsibility for the management and recycling of their products at the end of their useful life,” he explained.
Al-Shiha added: “SIRC actively engages in waste diversion programs to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. This includes initiatives such as composting organic waste, promoting reuse and recycling of materials, and exploring alternative waste-to-energy solutions.
The CEO also reiterated that his company places a strong emphasis on public awareness and education regarding waste management and recycling. “We conduct awareness campaigns, workshops and educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of recycling, proper waste disposal and the benefits of a circular economy,” he said.
SIRC collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, municipalities, businesses and nonprofits, to foster a comprehensive waste management ecosystem. “These partnerships involve sharing knowledge, resources and best practices to drive innovation and improve waste management practices in Saudi Arabia,” Al-Shiha asserted.
Additionally, SIRC invests in research and development to explore new technologies, processes and approaches to waste management and recycling. This includes assessing emerging trends, conducting pilot projects and adopting innovative solutions to improve recycling rates and waste management efficiency, the CEO highlighted.
“SIRC engages with international partners to align waste management policies and regulations with international standards and best practices. This collaboration helps ensure that Saudi Arabia’s waste management practices are consistent with global sustainability goals and principles,” he explained.
Al-Shiha went on to say that SIRC initiatives can contribute to the development of a circular economy, which promotes resource efficiency and economic growth. “By recycling and recovering valuable materials, SIRC helps create a domestic market for recycled materials, thereby reducing dependence on imports and the cost of raw materials,” he said.
Sashittal told Arab News that he was proud to announce KAFD DMC’s partnership with SIRC. “As the largest industrial waste management company in the GCC, SIRC aligns with our commitment to advancing recycling initiatives, minimizing waste and promoting environmental sustainability. »
He added: “SIRC seeks business opportunities in all segments of the waste management value chain by establishing alliances with domestic partners, attracting foreign investment and promoting the use of innovative technologies to maximize waste recycling, minimize waste disposal and maximize value. generated by the use of waste, protect the environment and improve the quality of life.
Sashittal said KAFD DMC and SIRC strive to maximize the value of waste utilization and support the Kingdom’s national waste management regulatory framework.
“This collaboration reflects our commitment to proactive and responsible waste management practices,” he concluded.
