Birzeit’s Dr. Issam Khatib Participates in an International Conference on Recycling
In a move that enhances the University's academic standing at the international level, Dr. Issam Al Khatib of the Institute of Environmental and Water Studies participated in the 5th International Conference on Recycling and Reuse (R&R 2024) held at the University of Istanbul, Turkey, from 5-6 July 2024. The Conference was attended by more than 140 participants from all continents, reflecting the global importance of recycling and reuse.
Dr. Al-Khatib presented his scientific paper titled: "Recycling Plastic Waste in a Developing Country: Challenges and Solutions Emerging from The Perspective of Workers in Recycling” The scientific paper addressed the major challenges facing plastic waste recycling in developing countries, focusing on innovative solutions offered by those working in this field. The study was based on data collected from 40 recycling companies, which range in size from small companies run by their owners to large companies employing more than 100 employees.
It highlighted a range of key obstacles such as low material value, unstable supply, and administrative constraints. Despite these challenges, the study showed that many recycling companies adopt effective quality assurance and efficiency strategies, such as pre- and post-manufacturing testing and using renewable energy sources such as solar energy.
The paper highlighted the importance of government support, improved waste collection structure, and access to advanced production technology as critical steps to strengthen the recycling sector. The study also emphasized the need to raise public awareness and provide financial support to promote these initiatives contributing to environmental sustainability and economic development.
Dr. Issam Al Khatib's participation in this conference is a remarkable achievement added to Birzeit University's record and reflects its commitment to providing scientific research that contributes to the resolution of global environmental issues.
