Industrial waste is posing a serious threat to the environment in the Gulf region, a recent has study indicates.
The study prepared by Jawaik Industrial Consultation Organisation has urged the environmental organisations and agencies in the Gulf states to take serious measures to protect the region from industrial pollution.
The volume of Gulf industrial waste is about ten million tonnes annually, of which 823,000 tonnes is classified as dangerous to humans and the environment.
The report pointed out that the industrial waste varies in quantity and quality in accordance with the products manufactured by factories.
The cement industry tops the list of industries generating waste with 6,691,000 tonnes annually. This constitutes nearly 65 per cent of the total industrial waste.
The basic mineral industries is second with 2,13100 tonnes (21 per cent), followed by the chemical and oil industries with 937,000 tonnes (9 per cent).
The study also warned against the steadily increasing pollution of Gulf waters that will have a serious impact not only on humans but also on the fish stocks, which are a main source of employment in the region.
It also called for new studies on pollution of Gulf seawater, which is affected by oil tankers and the dumping of sewage and industrial waste.
Chairman of the Industrial Committee at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Zamil Al Muqrin, who is also director general of Eastern Cement Co, has urged the Industrial Cities Organisation to work out strict rules and regulations to combat industrial pollution and protect the Gulf eco system.
Meanwhile, the Industrial Cities Organisation has directed Saudi factories to report on the measures they have taken to prevent industrial pollution and ensure a healthy environment.
Gulf News
