Saudi Arabia rolls out ‘Green Spots’ initiative to boost recycling during Hajj

Jeddah: A collaborative effort led by the Scientific Endowment at King Abdulaziz University (KAU), alongside the Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials Research and various public and private sectors, has launched the pioneering 'Green Spots' initiative. Operating under the slogan 'Sort It, Recycle It,' the campaign aims to promote environmental sustainability during the 1446 AH Hajj season.

This first-of-its-kind community program focuses on improving waste management across the holy sites by encouraging collection, sorting, and source-level separation of waste. The goal is not only a cleaner environment but also to foster eco-conscious behavior among pilgrims and the workforce supporting them.

Beyond environmental cleanliness, the initiative seeks to harness intellectual and human potential by turning recyclables into resources that benefit local industries. This supports national production, stimulates the circular economy, and promotes healthy, environmentally conscious behaviors, laying the foundation for a more civilized, sustainable, and investment-friendly environment.

Green Spots builds on the success of the wider 'Let’s Go Recycling!' campaign, which KAU’s Scientific Endowment began in 2012—making it the first in Saudi Arabia to pioneer a structured recycling effort. Through wide-ranging partnerships, the campaign has already recycled hundreds of tons of consumer waste.

This year’s Hajj marks a major step forward in driving public engagement around environmental responsibility, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of sustainability and improved urban living.