A COMPREHENSIVE proposal aimed at transforming agricultural waste management and improving environmental cleanliness across Bahrain has been unanimously approved by the Capital Trustees Board.
The initiative, presented by the board’s services and public utilities committee chairman Mohammed Tawfeeq Al Abbas, seeks to establish a systematic and sustainable framework for dealing with the issue, citing its direct impact on public health, environmental protection, the urban landscape and agricultural productivity.
At the heart of the proposal is the establishment of a clear regulatory framework governing the collection, transportation and disposal of agricultural waste, alongside the adoption of approved environmental standards to ensure safe disposal or recycling wherever possible.
It also calls for encouraging environmentally-friendly agricultural practices that reduce waste generation at source.
A key pillar of the plan is the identification and development of agricultural waste collection centres across various farming areas. These sites would be geographically distributed to ensure easy access for farmers, while improving the efficiency of collection and transport operations and reducing operational costs.
It has been now referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak for review.
Present at the meeting for the first time was newly appointed Capital Trustees Authority (Municipality) director-general Alya Yousif to give feedback.
Mr Al Abbas said the proposal reflects the need for stronger institutional co-operation and closer partnership between government authorities and the agricultural sector.
“Agricultural waste is no longer a marginal issue – it is a key environmental and health concern that requires organised, sustainable and practical solutions,” he said.
“Our objective is to develop an integrated system for managing agricultural waste in line with approved environmental standards and the kingdom’s strategic plans for environmental protection and food security.”
He pointed out that several challenges currently hinder effective waste management, including the accumulation of agricultural waste in certain areas due to the absence of designated collection sites, limited recycling or safe disposal options, and unclear roles and responsibilities among stakeholders.
“These gaps lead to pollution, visual distortion of agricultural areas, and potential risks to public health,” Mr Al Abbas added. “This proposal offers a roadmap to address these shortcomings in a structured and long-term manner.
“Designating proper collection sites is essential.
“Farmers need accessible locations where they can dispose of agricultural waste safely, instead of resorting to random dumping or burning, which harms both the environment and human health.”
The proposal also stresses the importance of full co-ordination with relevant authorities to approve and operate the collection centres, as well as unify roles between municipalities, government bodies and the agricultural sector.
Capital Trustees Board Chairman Saleh Tarradah said the board’s unanimous approval reflects the urgency of addressing the issue.
“This is a practical and forward-looking proposal that tackles a real problem affecting our agricultural areas,” Mr Tarradah said. “Improving waste management is not only about cleanliness – it is about protecting public health, preserving natural resources and supporting the sustainability of our food system.”
He highlighted the importance of continuous follow-up once the proposal is implemented.
“There must be periodic meetings to monitor progress, evaluate performance and resolve challenges,” he said.
“Awareness campaigns for farmers are also vital, so they understand the correct methods of handling agricultural waste and their role in protecting the environment.”
The expected impact of the initiative includes improving the overall appearance of agricultural areas, reducing environmental pollution and health risks, strengthening environmental commitment, enhancing institutional integration and supporting the sustainability of agricultural production and food security.
“This proposal aligns with Bahrain’s national vision and its strategic plans in the field of environmental protection,” stressed Mr Tarradah. “It is a step towards achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for the local community.”
Under the board’s recommendation, sites will be designated for agricultural waste collection in various farming areas, taking into account appropriate geographical distribution and ease of access for farmers, and in accordance with approved regulatory and environmental standards.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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