Mauritania, a country located in the Western Sahara desert, is facing a serious waste management crisis. The country’s capital, Nouakchott, struggles to manage its waste, with more than 70% of it not properly collected or disposed of. The situation is exacerbated by a lack of infrastructure and a growing population, which have led to a significant increase in waste generation.
The crisis unfolds
The city’s waste management system is overwhelmed, with trash piling up on streets, highways and even in homes. The lack of effective waste collection and disposal has led to the spread of diseases such as malaria and cholera, as well as the proliferation of pests and rodents. The situation has also had a significant impact on the environment, with waste contaminating water sources and soil.
Incineration capacity: a possible solution?
In an effort to deal with the crisis, the Mauritanian government has turned to incineration as a possible solution. Incineration involves burning waste at high temperature to reduce its volume and weight, thus making it easier to manage. The technology has been used in several African countries, including South Africa and Morocco, with good results.
However, incineration capacity in Mauritania is limited. The country has only one operational incinerator, located in Nouakchott, with a capacity of 100 tonnes per day. This is significantly lower than the estimated 400 tonnes of waste generated daily in the city. Additionally, the incinerator is often shut down due to technical problems, further exacerbating the waste management crisis.
Challenges and concerns
Although incineration may seem like a viable solution, its use raises several challenges and concerns. One of the main concerns is air pollution. Incineration can release harmful pollutants, such as dioxins and particulate matter, into the air, which can have serious consequences for the health of the population. Additionally, the process can also produce ash, which can contaminate soil and water.
Another challenge is the high cost of incineration technology and maintenance. Building and operating incinerators requires significant investment, which can be a challenge for a country with limited resources. Additionally, the technology is not always efficient and the Nouakchott incinerator malfunctions, leading to air pollution and other environmental problems.
A sustainable solution
In the long term, Mauritania must develop a more sustainable waste management system. This can be achieved through a combination of waste reduction, recycling and proper disposal. The government and private sector must work together to implement effective waste management practices, such as separate collection of recyclables, composting and landfilling with appropriate liners and leachate treatment.
The Mauritanian government also announced plans to develop a new waste management facility, which will include an incinerator, recycling facilities and a landfill. However, the project is still in its infancy and it remains to be seen whether it will be able to resolve the country’s waste management crisis.
Conclusion
The waste management crisis in Mauritania is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive and sustainable solution. Although incineration is a temporary solution, it is not a long-term solution. The country must focus on developing a waste management system based on reduction, recycling and proper disposal. With the help of international partners and a commitment to sustainable development, Mauritania can overcome its waste management crisis and offer its citizens a healthier, more environmentally friendly future.
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