Industrial hazardous waste management is a critical aspect of environmental sustainability, requiring strategic approaches to address diverse challenges. It involves the collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of waste materials that pose a risk to human health or the environment due to their inherent properties. Speaking to R. Keerthana, industry experts explore upcoming trends, challenges, and promising initiatives that are shaping the landscape of industrial waste management.

Dr. Khalid Al Khoori, CEO of Cleanco Waste Treatment, UAE, pointed out that the industrial waste management sector is undergoing a transformative phase marked by technological advancements and a heightened focus on sustainability.  

Al Khoori underscored the industry's shift towards sustainability, as it is more focused on recycling, reusing, and reducing waste by following circular economy principles. “The sector is keenly adopting technologies to efficiently recover resources, adapting to changing waste compositions, and meeting stringent environmental standards while managing costs effectively,” he noted. One of the critical challenges highlighted was the need for government support to actively promote circular economy practices, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and create supportive frameworks for sustainable hazardous waste management.

The industry is actively engaging in strategies to maximise recycling and divert waste from landfills in accordance with local directives, the CEO pointed out. Industries are collaborating to repurpose waste materials within their operations, such as reusing waste or treating it in-house to create valuable products. Specific waste is utilised as alternative fuels (AF), while others are transformed into refuse-derived fuels (RDF) for use in cement kilns, aligning with circular economy principles specific to industrial waste management, he added. 

Al Khoori emphasised the significant regulatory complexities in industrial waste handling and disposal. “Balancing stringent environmental safeguards with operational needs poses a persistent challenge. Collaborative actions involving governments, industrial facilities, cement factories, and recyclers are crucial to navigate these complexities effectively.” He further suggested government measures that can encourage environmentally conscious approaches within the industrial landscape, ensuring safer handling and disposal of hazardous wastes and materials.  “A collaborative incentive mechanism devised by the governments across the GCC region can help promote sustainable management practices when dealing with industrial waste.” 

Discussing innovations in industrial waste disposal, Al Khoori highlighted advancements in incineration technologies, specifically with air pollution control (APC) systems. These systems ensure environmentally compliant management of hazardous waste. “Additionally, ongoing research and development efforts continue to drive improvements in waste-to-energy technologies tailored for industrial waste streams.” AI stands as another pivotal advancement in hazardous waste management, he pointed out adding, “leveraging real-time data analysis and predictive capabilities will optimise treatment processes, enhance APC system preparedness, and foster proactive measures in handling hazardous waste, ensuring safer and more efficient management practices.” 

AbdulKareem Qasim Al-Balushi, Chief Operating Officer, Hazardous Waste at be’ah, Oman, said, the waste management companies dealing with industrial waste are poised for exciting developments and face pressing challenges. “Notable trends on the horizon include the increasing adoption of circular economy principles and digitisation of processes for operation optimisation.”

However, the sector is not without its challenges, he pointed out, adding, “Complexities related to waste stream diversion, stringent regulatory compliance, and the imperative to instill sustainable practices within industries remain at the forefront.” 

Oman Environmental Services Holding Company’s (be’ah) expertise lies in the management of various industrial waste types, excluding radioactive and explosive materials. It serves clients in mining, oil & gas, manufacturing, and water production sectors.  

Speaking of how the industry addresses the challenges, Al-Balushi said the industry is prepared to keep up with the changing needs. “be’ah, for instance, addresses these challenges by incorporating international standards and establishing advanced facilities like the Integrated Waste Treatment Facility (IWTF) in Sohar,” he said. 

This facility, considered one of the most advanced and integrated waste management hubs in the Middle East region, has been designed to enhance the infrastructure and management of hazardous waste resulting from industrial facilities, by treating various types of industrial waste, including oil and chemical waste from different parts of the country, he added. 

be’ah has also implemented an online manifest system, which allows waste generators to record the movement of hazardous waste. It facilitates the documentation, safe handling, transportation, and final disposal of hazardous waste in alignment with stringent environmental standards. “This step ensures that be’ah’s team can evaluate the waste, plan for its correct treatment, and advise on its handling, transportation, labeling and packaging procedures.” the COO pointed out. 

Talking about the role of be’ah Lab, he said, “Testing waste before landfilling or treatment is essential for environmental protection, human health, and regulatory compliance, optimising waste treatment processes, and ensuring safe and responsible disposal.” 

Accredited with ISO 17025, the lab specialises in testing industrial waste samples in liquid or solid form, environmental inspection, monitoring, waste treatment optimisation, and decision-making on treatment methods.  “We're dedicated to enhancing monitoring systems and data collection for a proactive approach.” be’ah's future vision involves impactful initiatives, including the development of a household hazardous waste collection system and adopting cutting-edge technologies. 

Within the industry, there is a growing commitment to reducing landfill waste through recycling and sustainable diversion initiatives, Al-Balushi pointed out.  “Many industrial sectors have embraced recycling programmes for materials such as paper, plastic, metal, and glass. Additionally, ongoing research endeavours are exploring innovative ways to recycle materials like slag,” he added. Speaking about be’ah’s initiatives, he highlighted the contributions of recycling programmes for cooking oil, petroleum oil, lead-acid batteries, WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment), end-of-life tyres, plastic, green waste, and more. “Concurrently, we are collaborating with local recycling companies to strengthen the capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in managing specific waste streams.” 

Navigating the regulatory landscape and compliance are paramount principles in industrial waste management, he said adding, “We are committed to maintaining strict compliance with disposal regulations, ensuring rigorous quality assurance, meticulous documentation, and rigorous inspection and monitoring protocols.” Companies should work closely with regulators and industry partners to uphold the highest standards of waste handling and disposal, he said.