Egypt receives $9.13 million grant to expand air pollution management project

Egypt has secured a $9.13 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), supplementing the ongoing Greater Cairo Air Pollution Management and Climate Change project funded by the World Bank.

Minister of Environment, Yasmin Fouad, disclosed on Sunday the initiation of the project’s sixth component aimed at reducing unintentional persistent organic pollutant emissions. This will be achieved through enhanced management of electronic waste (e-waste) and healthcare waste.

Fouad emphasized that the implementation of this component aligns with the objectives outlined in the National Strategy for Climate Change 2050. She underscored the Egyptian government’s commitment to transitioning towards a green economy through concerted efforts.

The project’s objectives encompass improving e-waste management practices, formulating strategies, and guidelines for the disposal of used electronics. Additionally, it will provide technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives for key public and private entities to implement extended producer responsibility plans effectively.

Minister Fouad outlined further initiatives under the project, including enhancing technical support for e-waste recyclers to ensure efficiency and safety standards. Educational materials will be developed to raise awareness about e-waste systems, while data on e-waste will be regularly updated and monitored through a comprehensive management information system.

The project also entails conducting trials for the safe collection, dismantling, and recycling of e-waste, as well as testing recovery schemes. Moreover, it aims to foster private sector involvement in e-waste management and explore various financing options, including sub-grants for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the e-waste recycling sector.

In a bid to integrate informal recycling practices, the project will engage with the informal recycling sector, thereby promoting inclusive and sustainable waste management practices in Egypt.