Enhancing Sustainability in Waste Management in the Tunisian Cities of Sousse and Beni Khalled

In a groundbreaking partnership between Alwaleed Philanthropies "Global," and UN Habitat Tunisia the "Waste Wise Cities" initiative seeks to transform the waste management landscape in Sousse and Beni Khalled, Tunisia. By promoting sustainable practices and empowering local communities, this initiative aims to reconcile urban environments with the challenges of waste disposal while fostering economic empowerment and environmental stewardship.

At the heart of the initiative is the goal of promoting "Waste Wise Cities" and revolutionizing the prevailing mindset, practices, and attitudes towards waste disposal. Efforts are underway to tackle the recycling of citrus waste, with specific objectives tailored to each municipality.

Beni Khalled Municipality:

Under the initiative, Beni Khalled Municipality is committed to reducing, reusing, and recycling citrus waste. In addition, a key focus lies on women's economic empowerment, recognizing the pivotal role they play in driving sustainable change within their communities.

Sousse Municipality:

Meanwhile, Sousse Municipality is dedicated to improving the conditions of waste collectors, locally known as "Barbechas." Efforts are underway to enhance their working conditions and equip them with the necessary tools to effectively collect and sort plastic waste, thereby contributing to a cleaner and safer environment.

In Beni Khalled Municipality, significant strides have been made towards sustainable waste management. The development of the Waste Wise City tool by UN-Habitat has provided a comprehensive guide to collecting data on municipal solid waste (MSW), laying the groundwork for informed decision-making. Composting stations have been installed in Beni Khalled and two primary schools, encouraging recycling and waste reduction efforts at the grassroots level. Moreover, the initiative has empowered 40 women artisans to transform citrus waste into recycled products, fostering economic independence and sustainability. Their creative endeavors were showcased through an exhibition, highlighting the ingenuity of local women in repurposing citrus waste.

Meanwhile, in Sousse Municipality, efforts have focused on improving the conditions of waste collectors. A needs assessment was conducted to understand the challenges faced by 1500 informal waste collectors, providing valuable insights for targeted interventions. Based on the findings of the needs assessment, initiatives have been launched to develop effective and sustainable waste management practices, with the ultimate goal of implementing these practices nationwide for lasting impact.

The "Waste Wise Cities" initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable waste management and community empowerment in Sousse and Beni Khalled. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders and empowering local communities, this initiative paves the way for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous future for all.