RAS AL KHAIMAH. The Ras Al Khaimah Waste Management Agency (RAKWMA) has announced plans for the next stage of its ambitious recycling initiative that aims to transform the way the Emirate’s community disposes of its waste.
Al Hamamdi, general manager of the emirate’s Public Services Department (PSD) said “I am incredibly proud of all that is happening in Ras Al Khaimah to support the Year of Zayed and the efforts being made to reach the national targets set to protect our environment and contribute to the global efforts related to climate change.”
This phase of the “RAK Recycles” program will use repurposed shipping containers as treatment and drop-off centres for recyclable household waste, including food wastes that will be recycled into compost and converted into other soil enhancing products for landscaping and farming use. This will help reduce the amount of food that ends up in landfills.
Green bags that will be used for the collection of recyclables like plastics, paper, cardboard, cans and glass bottles, and brown bags for food waste, have already been provided to communities in Al Dhait, Rams, the southern region of RAK, all RAK Properties developments and the Al Hamra area. All other areas of Ras Al Khaimah will be receiving their recycling bags before the end of June 2018.
There’s a higher chance to process and sell high-quality recyclables when separating wastes. That’s why households are also encouraged to sort their garbage by using green or brown bags before it is collected.
“RAK Recycles” has been received with such enthusiasm by the community that RAKWMA officials plan to expand operations by targeting new initiatives to further support the recycling of food and household waste.
To encourage more residents and small businesses to properly dispose of even more waste, drop-off centres for recyclable household items will be opened at Saqr Park, in the front parking lot, and in RAK Mall’s parking lot.
Three food waste treatment centres will also be opened at Al Hamra Mall, the RAK Vegetable Market, and the Mairid Fish Market. An outreach centre and a food bank will also be established on the Corniche. All of the new centres will also be easily accessible on foot and by car.
Engineer Sonia Nasser, Executive Director of the Ras Al Khaimah Waste Management Agency, said: “By having Composting Hubs, Food Banks, and Recycling Drop-off Centres, RAKWMA is actively engaging the public in the important act of recycling.”
“Our ultimate objective is to improve the community of Ras Al Khaimah’s commitment to recycling, sustainability, and other important environmental issues to preserve the emirate’s stunning natural beauty for generations to come.”
The idea of putting composting hubs and drop-off points is simple. But the very idea of it can make a huge impact, as the centres are small and the logistics of setting them up are easy. They’re also centrally located, so residents can actively and easily participate.
