Muscat— A workshop titled “Environmental Sustainability in Managing Construction and Demolition Waste: Challenges and Opportunities in Oman" kicked off today in Muscat.
The two-day event explores ways to transform waste from an environmental burden into a promising economic resource within the circular economy framework.
The event was held under the patronage of Sayyid Khalifa bin Al Mardas Al Busaidi, Secretary-General at the Ministry of Interior.
In his keynote speech, Dr. Mohammed Saif Al Kalbani, Director General of Environmental Affairs at the Environment Authority, highlighted the current state of construction and demolition waste management in Oman, the existing challenges, and the exchange of expertise among stakeholders.
He emphasised that Oman has placed significant importance on environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources as a cornerstone of its comprehensive development strategy across all stages.
This commitment is reflected in making “Sustainable Environment” and the prioritization of natural resources one of the pillars of Oman Vision 2040.
Al Kalbani noted that the waste sector in Oman is a vital field requiring continuous coordination and innovation from all relevant parties. The Environment Authority is working closely with government and private entities to develop legislative and regulatory frameworks for sustainable and efficient waste management, he pointed out.
The workshop, held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center, addresses major challenges and investment opportunities in maximizing the sector’s potential. It also reviews best regional and international practices applicable in Oman and explores ways to strengthen public-private partnerships in advancing recycling and treatment technologies.
Discussions focus on integrating roles between government entities and private companies to establish a comprehensive national waste management system under a strategic vision that ensures environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
The workshop also seeks to develop a clear institutional and regulatory framework for managing construction and demolition waste through binding legislation, technical standards, economic incentives for the private sector, and enhanced monitoring systems to ensure effective implementation.
Organized by the Environment Authority in cooperation with Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be’ah) and other stakeholders, the workshop brings together government agencies, academic institutions, research centers, regional and international organizations, private sector companies, and civil society groups. This aligns with ongoing efforts to achieve the strategic objectives of environmental and natural resource priorities under Oman Vision 2040.
Specialists, decision-makers, and experts from government bodies, the private sector, academia, and research institutions are participating in the workshop.
Key topics include the current legislative and regulatory framework and associated challenges, the environmental and economic impacts of uncontrolled construction and demolition waste disposal, and regional and international experiences in waste treatment and recycling.
