Makkah, October 07, 2024 — In a proactive move to enhance waste management efforts for the upcoming Hajj Season 1446 AH, the Holy Makkah Municipality, in collaboration with the National Center for Waste Management (MWAN), conducted a comprehensive waste management workshop yesterday. The event aimed to address critical areas of improvement within the environmental and municipal sectors, ensuring a more efficient and sustainable approach to waste management during one of the largest annual gatherings in the world.
During the workshop, participants identified thirteen primary opportunities to enhance waste management across the entire Hajj journey in Makkah City and the surrounding holy sites. Among the key recommendations was the requirement for Hajj service providers to develop and implement operational waste management plans tailored to the unique demands of the pilgrimage. Additionally, the workshop emphasized the creation of a comprehensive waste-reduction strategy to minimize the environmental impact of the event.
Other crucial opportunities discussed included the expansion of warehouse capacities to better handle waste, the enhancement of waste compactor container efficiency, and ensuring all sites are adequately prepared before the onset of the Hajj season. In a bid to streamline waste collection efforts, pilgrim service companies will now be mandated to adhere to designated waste pick-up times, ensuring timely and organized removal of waste generated by the influx of pilgrims.
This collaborative effort reflects a commitment to improving environmental sustainability in Makkah, aligning with broader goals of enhancing the overall Hajj experience for millions of pilgrims each year.