In cooperation with the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA) and with support from the Belgian Development Agency (Enabel), the Environment Quality Authority (EQA) organized a workshop on solid waste management on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in the city of Ramallah. The event was attended by Eng. Ahmed Abu Zaher, EQA Acting Head, Eng. Abdallah Anati, APLA Executive Director, several representatives of local government units (LGUs), and environment and local development experts and specialists.
In his opening remarks, Abu Zaher asserted that the workshop culminated the active partnership between EQA and APLA in the context of national efforts to promote sound environmental management, protect the environment, and improve the quality of life in cities, villages, and refugee camps.
Abu Zaher explained that the management of solid, hazardous, and electronic waste was one of the most significant environmental challenges that faced Palestine in terms of infrastructure, capacity, as well as legislative and regulatory frameworks. He pointed out that the situation in the Gaza Strip underscored the need for a comprehensive national waste management system based on upgraded legislation, integrated roles, and proactive readiness. The environment cannot wait and challenges recognize no geographical boundaries.
Abu Zaher emphasized that successful waste management can only be realized through genuine partnership with LGUs because they are closest to citizens and most capable of influencing daily environmental behavior. “The EQA is working to update the system of environmental legislation and develop frameworks for electronic waste management, alongside the ongoing implementation of solid and hazardous waste management systems,” he noted. These efforts aim to promote the concept of a circular economy, reduce pollution, and protect natural resources.
Anati affirmed that environmental issues reflect a continuous national pathway linked to the sustainable development agenda and local government priorities. He explained that the partnership between APLA and EQA showcased a model of institutional integration through which APLA seeks to align LGU priorities with national policies. While the government addresses environmental issues from a legislative and regulatory perspective, LGUs approach them from the standpoint of daily needs and practical realities.
Anati called on LGUs to launch informed initiatives for recycling solid and electronic waste, especially plastics, given the funding and international support opportunities available in this field. “Effective response begins on the ground by empowering LGUs to lead effective environmental initiatives that turn challenges into opportunities for sustainable development and protection,” he concluded.
The workshop comprised several sessions that addressed the current situation and regulatory frameworks for solid and electronic waste management. It presented experiences and action plans for developing a sustainable waste management system.
Another session reviewed the reality of electronic waste from the perspective of LGUs. A presentation discussed policy directives and frameworks for preparing a national policy and legal guidelines for managing electrical and electronic waste.
The workshop concluded by stressing the need to strengthen institutional integration between local and national bodies, develop policies that ensure the reduction of pollution and protection of natural resources, and achieve sustainable development in Palestine.
