Time to properly deal with waste

Go green is the catchphrase nowadays! But in reality, are we putting in any efforts towards achieving this goal? I think it is a question everyone should ask themselves seriously. I am sure a majority of people will find the answer to be ‘no', though they are sincerely concerned about these issues and want to address them.

I stay in the Abu Shagara area of Sharjah. Presently, I believe the garbage is not being disposed in a hygienic manner. Sometimes, the waste is found all over the ground.

Additionally, all kinds of rubbish is being dumped together and is not being handled in an appropriate manner. There is a need to identify the nature of this waste and to dispose it of accordingly.

Soft drink cans, plastic bottles and old newspapers should be identified and separated for recycling.

In this context, I congratulate the efforts of environmental companies and Sharjah Municipality for introducing separate waste bins for collecting recyclable materials.

I trust everyone would participate and cooperate in the effort to recycle and help make the initiative a great success.

However, currently, such recycling bins exist in selected places around the city. I request the authorities to introduce such recycling centres or bins in more areas.

Urgent need

There is an urgent need for recycling facilities in Abu Shagara, as this area happens to be one of the major residential zones of the city. It is also necessary to put up posters near the bins and in other public places, in order to increase awareness among residents, about the benefits and importance of being environmentally-friendly.

Another cause for concern is that such recycling bins are primarily meant to collect only small bottles and cans. They cannot be used for the disposal of large items like fruit boxes or milk cartons. Thus, it would be a good idea for the authorities to take the necessary steps to accommodate larger recyclable items.

Separate collection bins or centres for electronic waste such as old computers and electrical equipment are necessary, too. Improper disposal of these items can actually serve as a health hazard.

We must realise the fact that it is our duty to do whatever we can to protect our environment, for the benefit of current and future generations.

I also take this opportunity to congratulate Gulf News for their efforts in creating awareness about the environment among the public and for distributing jute shopping bags.

We must understand that creating a greener environment is not only the authorities' responsibility but also our own. The community must work toward creating an eco-friendly society.

I am sure many people share my views. Let us all work together to create a better, more eco-friendly world.

— The reader is a financial controller, based in Sharjah.

Tips: Go green

- Use electricity only when it is necessary.

- Try not to waste water.

- Separate cans, plastic bottles, papers from other waste and dispose it in recycle bins.

- Use jute bags when out shopping. If you have to use plastic bags, use a limited number.

- Before cutting or destroying plants — even grass — think twice.

- Recycle printer cartridges.

- Parents should educate children about the importance of protecting the environment.

Suggestions for the authorities:

- Strictly ban plastic bags in malls. If any one needs a bag, provide them with jute bags at a reasonable price. This could be made mandatory for all supermarkets.

- Use solar power as much as possible. Encourage building owners to install solar panels and use renewable energy wherever possible.

- Make it mandatory for each building to maintain small lawns and foliage.

Be a citizen reporter. Tell us what is happening in your community. Write to us at readers@gulfnews.com