The Social and Economic Survey Research Institute (SESRI), a social scientific survey research initiative of Qatar University (QU), announced yesterday the results of its environmentally friendly Ramadan Tents project and its impact on food waste reduction policies. The project aims to contribute to achieving food self-sufficiency by recycling and composting food residuals in the country. The project also contributes towards reducing environmental footprints and environmental pollution. The project is the product of a partnership between The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), who managed the processing and recycling of waste, and the Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), who managed the volunteering and local development aspects.
Manager of the Policy Department at SESRI, Dr. Majed Mohammed Al-Ansari spoke at the event and explained the role of his department in formulating policies and recommendations for development projects, noting the importance of linking global and national strategies toward the topic and the need for sectoral coordination for research and local development projects.
Research Associate at SESRI, Dr. Sana Abusin, spoke about the relationship between Islam and the preservation of the environment, both of which are considered a moral obligation, with charity helping the needy and sustainability helping future generations.
Head of Local Development at QRCS, Mona Fadhel Al-Sulaiti, spoke about the society’s role in the implementation of local development projects as well as the importance of making the tents environmentally friendly. She also spoke about the role of the QRC in providing tents and supervising waste sorting and training. Lectures aimed at raising awareness of the importance of recycling and reducing food waste also took place.
Director of Waste Management Department at MME, Eng. Hamad Al Bahr, illustrated the ways to make this project a successful model for the future. He also spoke about the role of the MME in coordinating with recycling and transportation companies, and how food was being converted into fertilizer for agricultural production purposes.