The Waste Weighs: Lebanon’s Incinerator Proposal Sparks Debate on Responsible Waste Management

The Waste Weighs: Lebanon’s Incinerator Proposal Sparks Debate on Responsible Waste Management

A Crisis of Waste

Lebanon is facing a critical crisis in waste management, with a staggering 55% of its waste not being collected or properly disposed of. The country’s existing landfill sites are at full capacity, and new solutions are desperately needed. Amidst this backdrop, a proposed incinerator has sparked heated debate about the future of waste management in Lebanon.

Incineration: A Temporary Fix or Sustainable Solution?

The proposed incinerator aims to reduce the massive amount of waste accumulating in landfills by converting it into electricity and steam. While this might seem like a temporary solution, critics argue that it will only shift the problem rather than address its root causes. "Incineration is a stopgap measure that does not tackle the fundamental issue of waste reduction and recycling," said Rania Skaff, executive director of the non-profit organization, Friends of the Earth Middle East. "We need a more holistic approach to waste management that prioritizes reducing, reusing, and recycling."

Solid Waste Management as a Matter of National Security

Waste management is not only an environmental issue but also a matter of national security. A recent report by the International Crisis Group noted that "the waste crisis is fuelling social unrest and tensions between the Lebanese state and its citizens." In some areas, citizens are taking matters into their own hands, resorting to protests and illegal dumping due to the lack of government intervention. The crisis is also attracting criminal activity, such as waste scavenging and dumping.

A Sustainable Future

Instead of incineration, Lebanon is exploring alternative waste management solutions. One proposal involves converting waste into biogas, which can be used as a sustainable energy source. Another option is recycling and composting, which would reduce the need for new landfills and lower the country’s carbon footprint.

Calls for a Holistic Approach

Many experts agree that a sustainable future for waste management in Lebanon requires a comprehensive approach. "We need a systemic change that integrates waste reduction, recycling, and biogas production into a single, national strategy," said Dr. Salam Hassan, an environmental economist at the Lebanese American University. "Anything less will only delay the inevitable, and the crisis will continue to escalate."

Conclusion

The waste management crisis in Lebanon is a complex issue that demands a nuanced and multi-faceted solution. While the proposed incinerator might offer a temporary fix, it is essential to adopt a more sustainable and long-term approach that prioritizes reducing, reusing, and recycling. As the debate continues, it is crucial to engage all stakeholders and prioritize the health and well-being of Lebanese citizens, as well as the environment.