From Mohamed Abdel-Aziz and Mohamed Youssef
IWEX

The Egyptian economy has been undergoing numerous economic and social reforms in the past few years. In response, the Government of Egypt (GoE) developed and launched various policies and strategies, laying emphasis on environmental issues, which has gained a higher priority both globally and nationally for the purposes of sustainable economic growth and human development. Globally, environmental risk management has gained much attention especially after the announcement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Environmental conditions have even become prerequisites for exporting. International experience has additionally proven that recycled industrial waste is a valuable source for energy generation and employment creation, if well managed. On a national level, the GoE recognizes the risks associated with environmental hazards at all levels: air, water and soil pollutions and their repercussions on health, biodiversity, climate change, etc.

Nevertheless, Egypt possesses considerable issues with regards to waste management. The Ministry of Environment, in addition to a number of governmental and non-governmental bodies, has elucidated various challenges, which hinder efficiency in waste management systems in the nation such as a lack of administrative capacities, insufficient resources, incomplete legislative framework, a lack of clear responsibilities and inadequate infrastructure. These issues, combined with poorly performing treatment and landfill sites, and illegal dumping increased inefficiencies in waste management systems in Egypt.

Nonetheless, the informal sector has undertaken considerable measures pertaining to waste management in various regions throughout the nation. Recycling rates however, remain low. The industrial waste generated in Egypt amounts to 6.2 million tons annually.1 Given that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) make up the vast majority of the non-agricultural private sector, traditionally focused on labor-intensive industries, they are key players in the Egyptian economy and have a high potential for involvement in the waste management sector.