Stepping towards regional landfills: an integrated approach

Urbanization and changing waste patterns have made solid waste management a daunting and mammoth task over the decades. Population growth and in-adequate waste management practices witnessed stern issues pertaining to collection and final disposal – huge piles of solid waste has become alarming not only to environment but it has also put human health in jeopardy. In most of the developing countries like Pakistan, solid waste management and its proper disposal is being neglected feature that needs to be heeded. One of the major reasons of this conundrum is lack of awareness amongst the people that has not yet achieved up to the satisfactory level, which is followed by obsolete legislation, lack of trained personnel, futile infrastructure and financial constraints. Unlike other provinces of Pakistan, Punjab has drastically ameliorated its SWM system by rendering the services of Turkish Companies and formation of waste management companies in seven large cities – playing pivotal role in managing solid waste from collection to disposal particularly in urban areas. However, still the collection efficiency is not up to the desired standards and there is a dire need to work on waste collection mechanism. In a similar vein, the recent initiative to clean the rural areas of Punjab that was devoid of formal waste management system is one of its kind, intends to see litter free villages in forthcoming years by provision of efficient waste collection services. The efforts of the incumbent government must be lauded but many rural areas are still deprived of these services and many are facing the collection and transportation snags. Most of the areas are still inundated with huge heaps of garbage alongside the unpaved roads, railway tracks, canals, trenches empty plots and temporary dumpsites, which portrays the appalling status and emanates various environmental, social and aesthetics issues. 

Solid waste management is an integrated approach, which encompasses efficient collection, sustainable transportation and well-planned disposal. In order to cope with these issues, pragmatic solutions are sought for effective collection and safe disposal as per standard scientific practices. Owing to urban sprawl and financial constraints, the formation of landfill in each city is insurmountable and hard nut to crack. In this regard, Government is striving hard to contrive a strategy for the establishment of Punjab Regional Landfills; aims to connect districts through specialized routes, which would be bearing the waste of various municipalities. To facilitate this, waste transfer stations will be established at selected points that will be connected to regional landfill sites where waste collected from different areas will be brought in smaller vehicles and then transported to the designated regional landfill sites using larger vehicles. In order to make this practice economically feasible, the role of waste transfer stations in whole is crucial where municipal solid waste is temporarily staged or stored in the course of its ultimate journey to the landfill or waste-to-energy facility. This does not only deliver fuel savings but also alleviates traffic congestion simultaneously.

No doubt, landfill is an environmentally safe method of waste dumping that witnesses positive changes – provides protection against surface and groundwater contamination, vector borne diseases, odour and emission of harmful gases. Thus, there is a dire need to work on emergency basis, concerned stakeholders must join hands to bring reforms, and regional landfills must be considered based upon already existing Divisional administrative boundaries in the province. This would further ease the implementation of the project and bring positive and productive outcomes. 

https://dailytimes.com.pk/191377/stepping-towards-regional-landfills-integrated-approach/

Haider Ali is young professional works as a Health Safety & Environment Officer in Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH & RC), holds a degree in MPhil Environmental Science from Government College University, Lahore. He writes on burning issues and has been involved in various projects.

Plantation Campaigns – Need of the hour

Without an iota of doubt, climate change is inevitable but man-made interventions are accelerating this change. Unfortunately, Pakistan is among 7^th most affected countries being affected by global warming and climate maledictions as highlighted by incumbent premier, Imran Khan while addressing students. The looming water crisis, droughts, smog and heatwave episodes are some of the prominent examples of capricious climate. Who is responsible for this scourge? It’s not the product of few days, it’s owing to reckless approach being followed from decades in the form of rampant deforestation, removal of green spaces, over-exploitation of resources, vehicular emissions and other associated activities. Now the apposite measures are the need of the hour.

To uproot the menace of climate change, the incumbent government has launched ‘clean and green Pakistan campaign’, which is a good omen. Punjab chief minister has also announced plantation competition to grapple the blight of excruciating climate. KPK has witnessed fruitful outcomes through billion-tree tsunami acknowledged by German Ambassador, Martin Kobler. The previous initiative is a guideline and lesson learnt to make this effort a sustainable one.

One must remember that Pakistan’s forest cover constitutes approximately 4.4 % of its total land area, which must be of 25% as per International Standards.

No one denies the fact that trees play pivotal role in combating global warming. It has been said that ‘trees on, global warming gone’.  A single tree can absorb 8kg of CO₂ per day that become 2920 kg/year. Forests have pivotal role in ameliorating air quality. The US Department of Agricultural (USDP) has found out that trees absorb 6 tons of CO₂ and in return provide 4 tons of oxygen. Trees have manifold and countless blessing for human beings – protect the soil from erosion, reduce temperature, absorb minute particles and alleviate the level of noise pollution. They are also used for food, fuel and medicinal purposes, which encompass Cidar, Aloe Vera, Apple etc.

The plantation drive augurs well for the country but one should refrain from haphazard measures. One must have enough insight of ecological merits and demerits of growing plants. Native plants are the most viable option. Introduced and exotic plants species such as the Islamabad’s paper mulberry, water gulping eucalyptus and ashoka and most prominent in some areas of Karachi, conocarpus are not suitable and might contribute more in global warming. These newly introduced species stand no-where with native peepal, neem, drek and so on. Fireflies and butterflies remained common in lawns of homes until 1990s, vanished owing to pesticide sprays and decline of native species. Same goes to some bird species as well.

To make these campaigns workable and pragmatic, smart techniques sought to be there. The recent most fast growing technique has introduced by the Japanese botanist, Akira Miyawaki through which plants can be grown ten times faster than in nature. His technique is being followed across the world. By emulating his model, Karachi based activist is doing tremendous job and has already established two tiny forest – ability to reduce the temperature of site by 4-5 Degree Celsius. In the light of this technique, Mr. Azhar Ali, having experience of over 20 years in Europe in environment and ecology proposed Miyawaki technique with pitcher irrigation system. Through this, plants would require water once in a week. Within one year, one may witness significant growth equals to eight to ten year old forest. This tiny forest model could be implemented in urban centres of cities to make environment clean, green and healthy.

Islam categorically prohibits the exploitation of resources. It acknowledges the importance of trees ages ago. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) always taught His companions not to destroy trees during battles and emphasized on plantation. Public can be mobilized by giving references from hadith and by highlighting the teachings of Islam. Masjids, especially during Jumma sermons, public can be taught about the significance of environment and climate change. In a similar vein, Imam Kaabah can play pivotal role in highlighting the importance of plantation in order to reap positive and long-term benefits. Moreover, country’s burning issues followed by Islamic teachings must be a part of syllabus at all levels.

The most quoted Chinese proverb says that the most suitable time to plant a tree was two centuries ago, but the second best and most suitable time is now. We should work on war footing to make this country clean, green and healthy for upcoming generations.

Haider Ali is young professional works as a Health Safety & Environment Officer in Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH & RC), holds a degree in MPhil Environmental Science from Government College University, Lahore. He writes on burning issues and has been involved in various projects.

Spill Management in Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

(Overview) 

Spill management is mandatory for the provision of safe and clean environment for patients, staff and visitors because hospital environment necessitates use of hazardous substances that may have serious consequences if appropriate measures are not taken.  

WHAT IS SPILL? 
An unintentional or accidental fall, flow or runout of something can be termed as Spill. In Hospitals, these spills include chemicals, hazardous material, drug, blood and other bodily fluids. 

WHAT ARE THE COMMON KINDS OF SPILLS IN THE HEALTHCARE FACILITIES? 

There are four common or major kinds of spills such as: 

Biological Spills – Blood and other bodily fluids, culture of micro-organisms and other infectious materials. 

Chemical Spills – formalin, xylene and other acid, bases and drugs 

Mercury Spills – B.P Apparatus & thermometer mostly but mercury compounds are also used in preservatives and reagents. 

Cytotoxic Spills – cytotoxic drugs and medicines 

HOW SPILLS INTERACT WITH HUMAN BODY?
Harmful materials such as bacteria, viruses and other small organisms, fumes and vapors and inappropriate drug or medicine can enter in to the body by four ways as explained below: 

POTENTIAL FOR SPILLS

Even with the best spill management guidelines, spills can still occur for many reasons, including:

·         Faulty equipment

·         Equipment that malfunctions or breaks while in use

·         Human error

·         Unfortunate circumstances

At the time of spill incident, concerned staff should be efficient enough to respond in order to minimize the exposure and potential of injury.

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THESE SPILLS 

They may have serious health consequences or even death for instance; microorganism (bacteria, viruses) may gradually impact internal organs badly. Mercury beads and its fumes can disrupt nervous system. Chemicals and their vapors may cause skin, eye irritation depending upon their properties and nature. Cytotoxic drugs (Cancerous drugs) are highly toxic to cells that may lead to adverse effects during exposure. 

BASIC STEPS TO RESPOND TO A SPILL 

1. Assess nature of spill and adopt safety measures accordingly
2. Stop the source of spill
3. Place caution sign or cordon off the area
4. Inform area supervisor or safety coordinator 
5. Wear appropriate PPE from spill kit 
6. Use appropriate spill items to tackle spill such as absorbent pad etc. 
7. Dispose of contaminated material including PPE in waste bags (Yellow & Red) or sharp container
8. Wash Area or disinfect area through housekeeping staff 
9. Wash hands
10. Re-stock spill kit items 

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF MAJOR SPILL KIT ITEMS 
Major items used during spillage are shown below: 

Frequent trainings and drills are vital for safe environment for masses.

Safety is more important than Convenience

Haider Ali is young professional works as a Health Safety & Environment Officer in Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH & RC), holds a degree in MPhil Environmental Science from Government College University, Lahore. He writes on burning issues and has been involved in various projects.

Heart-Wrenching Train Incident

There is no denying fact the current infrastructure of railways is of British era and now has become obsolete. No improvement as per need has been seen so far. Hence, for decades, multiple accidents have been witnessed. Historical data manifested that most of the reported incidents were caused by derailment and collision at unmanned railway crossings. However, the recent most fire incident was unprecedented and resulted over 70 causalities owing to massive fire – heart wrenching and perturbing and put whole nation in a state of deep sorrow.  

Now the question emanated here is; who is to blame? Concerned authorities, government or public? In my opinion, this tragedy could have been avoided if the mechanism of monitoring and checking of passenger baggage was in-placed. Having said that, the public is reluctant and ignorant too, they prefer their ease over safety. It’s the central point where the problem lies. Many domestic fire incidents are reported at regular intervals owing to cylinder explosion at homes particularly in kitchens.  Remember, fire is very unkind! Minor negligence may result in serious repercussions. Through this reckless approach, one puts other’s life in jeopardy as well. That’s what happened in train – two cookers blew up that had oil in them, which added fuel to fire simultaneously. The ruthless fire further covered the three other train carriages within in no time. In order to save lives, many jumped out of fast moving train and couldn’t survive. This could have been avoided if the train managed to stop in time. It’s pertinent to mention here that fire needs three elements to ignite such as fuel, heat and oxidizing agent which is usually oxygen. The combination of these three results in fire. In case of train incident, these all three agents were well in place that surrounded other carriages of the train with smoke and flames flowing out through the windows. This painful incident is the negligence of both concerned authorities and general public as well. 

Now the most important question is that what steps should be taken to address these tragic incidents in near future instead of engaging in mud-slinging and number game as most of the media houses and opposition are doing. It’s a lesson learnt for all of us to cope with ignorable issues. Therefore, there is a dire need for whole nation to pay heed to this and come up with sustainable solutions. Detail risk assessment is highly recommended. Historical data is helpful to identify major causes of rail accidents such as lack of track maintenance, over-speeding, signal issues and older engines. It’s a need of the hour to upgrade railway infrastructure as millennium old system is outdated and pose serious threats to the passengers and nearby community. Hence, CPEC is the great tool to upgrade existing infrastructure followed by safety measures. If India could develop Asia’s best railway system, if Singapore could become 1^st world country in 3^rd world, if Turkey could upgrade its infrastructure to compete with modern world and if Germany who started its journey in 1950s could become fourth biggest economy and could develop state of the art railway system then why not Pakistan? What are the barricades around? Who stops development works? Same goes to China where Hyperloop trains are fastest and safest mode of transportation. All stakeholders must join hands to dig out suitable measures on emergency basis. 

Moreover, when it comes to fire, one may witness serious implication owing to carelessness. The most suitable solution is to eliminate the hazard or nip the evil of fire in the bud. Proper checking and monitoring mechanisms like in airports must be introduced to grapple the menace of fire. Secondly, there is always likelihood of incident there which can be alleviated through risk assessment. Each train carriage must have smoke detectors at suitable places, which detect smoke within no time to reflect it at control panels in engine or monitoring stations. Fire extinguishers with simple instructions must be there so the passengers can use to tackle minor fires occur due to electrical appliances. Manual call points (MCPs) or fire alarms must be there in every carriage to take appropriate measures in case of fire incident. Similarly, there are other options available such as FM-200 suppression system, a technology that reduces the temperature up to -25 Degree Celsius by removing energy (heat) without reducing the oxygen level. These all are the engineering controls. Administratively, we can restrict passengers and educate them to not take banned items like cylinders, cooking stoves and oil canister and violators must be brought to book. For regular monitoring, safety and environmental officer must be there all the time to ensure safety in all aspects that can only be happened by regular monitoring of electrical appliances, kitchen and already installed equipment for fire. These measures would definitely reap positive outcome; alleviate the level of such incidents to its maximum. Realistically, it’s not an overnight change but a gradual process but stringent measures and sincere approach is the need of the hour to harness long term benefits in terms of revenue and passengers safety. 

Can be viewed on: 

https://dailytimes.com.pk/493718/the-heart-wrenching-train-incident/

Haider Ali is young professional works as a Health Safety & Environment Officer in Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH & RC), holds a degree in MPhil Environmental Science from Government College University, Lahore. He writes on burning issues and has been involved in various projects.

My Waste, My Responsibility

There is no denying fact that solid waste management has become daunting and mammoth task across the world. In Pakistan alone, with the exception of few, most of the areas are still inundated with huge heaps of garbage alongside the unpaved roads, railway tracks, canals, empty plots and temporary dumpsites – portrays the appalling status and emanates various environmental, social and aesthetics issues. It’s because of rampant population explosion followed by inadequate management practices left this issue unintended for decades. The annual waste generation has already 48 million tons; increasing over two percent every year. Presently, Karachi depicts abominable scenario pertaining to waste. It’s almost near to impossible lifting of 10 years of unintended waste—a gargantuan task for concerned authorities owing to insufficient manpower and resources. Hence, huge piles of solid waste at various points have become alarming not only to environment but it has also put human health in jeopardy.  Now here the question emanates who is to blame for this imbroglio – Government, Private Partners, Experts or Public? To be honest, no one is blame free. 

It’s not a right approach to blame government; public and others are equally responsible for this prevailing menace.  Our alma maters  and other experts in this field who always come up with innovative ideas of producing compost from organic waste or energy from rest of the waste by giving examples of developing countries without realizing the actual scenario. This is the main problem which manifests the gap between market and institutions. The nature of generated waste in Pakistan is not as in Turkey, Japan, Germany and other countries whom case studies we often present in our syllabus and conferences. There is a dire need to hit the bull’s eye and manage things accordingly. The waste generated from households is not good for compost (fertilizer) owing to moisture content and same goes to rest in case of energy. 

To get desired results, we need to ensure segregation at household level but again it needs awareness. Firstly, different color bins can be placed in commercial areas by mentioning category of waste like organics (fruit and vegetables) or inorganics (plastic, metals etc.). At second stage, residential areas can be targeted. This would generate revenue from organic waste in the form of fertilizer and rest may be sold as recyclables. However at this juncture, role of scavengers shouldn’t be ignored as recyclables they extract from waste is the source of livelihood for them. Government along with concerned stakeholders must device a mechanism to include them in a legal system and provide them incentives such as personal protective equipment and basic aid to avoid exposure to various hazardous things owing to their contribution to an environment and nature conservation. Remember, all the success stories of developing world we quote didn’t earn this status overnight. It’s a gradual process to become culture. 

Moreover, government and concerned authorities always react haphazardly without taking in to account the real root-cause and seem to squander massive resources for nothing. Apart from obsolete legislation, lack of trained personnel, futile infrastructure and financial constraints, one of the major reasons of this conundrum is lack of awareness amongst the people. Generally, Public is least bother about their waste management and they throw it unintended in streets and roadsides. At government level, apart from imparting education, fines must be imposed over this practice. 

Considering this a burning issue, all stakeholders must be on board in order to reap desired results. Institutions can update the syllabus accordingly from primary level and sensitize and educate upcoming generations. Experts from foreign and local universities can be invited to share solution based ideas. Assignments, projects and dissertation must consider burning issues and share pragmatic solutions to government and authorities. This would fill the gap between market and institutions. Students must be engaged to create awareness and sensitize masses about waste management and convince them to do segregation before collection. There are various small scale projects already in place, which can be expanded to larger scale. 

In a similar vein, Masjid –a perfect place to sensitize masses to harness fruitful results. During festive events like Eids, our masjids can play better role to keep our cities clean. It’s all about mindset. If we could spend huge amount of money on sacrificial animals then why do we throw the remainings and waste unintended and avoid using appropriate bags, which only cost peanuts. We have to change this mindset. This practice emanates unprecedented impacts on us, our environment and surroundings. Concerned authorities are in full swing to manage waste but it’s our responsibility to help them out and keep our surrounding clean. Let’s raise this slogan at every level “My waste, my responsibility”. 

However, at Government level, no doubt, huge resources and manpower is required for primary and secondary collection of waste and government is already spending billions in this regard but desired results are not on the board. One way to solve this problem is to provide incentives to the public. Secondary collection points can be established at proposed locations where waste will be collected through machinery and reward must be there with respect to weight or appropriate segregation. It will surely save the primary collection cost and ensure cleanliness. Pilot project may include low income areas first, then, can be expanded to rest. 

Taking all in consideration, its pertinent to mention that adequate waste management practices reap multiples benefits by protecting environment and reducing health cost. Lo and behold, ignorance and complacency would only lead to unprecedented repercussions as it becomes a part of our food chain. This is true what goes around comes around. Plastic bags episodes, marine life and amount of plastic consumed by fishes is the most prominent example. Therefore, there is a dire need for all stakeholders to join hands irrespective of their vested interest in order save environment and conserve the nature for future generations. Let’s raise this slogan at every level “My waste, My responsibility”.

This article can also be viewed on:

https://dailytimes.com.pk/447554/my-waste-my-responsibility/

https://learnersrepublic.com/my-waste-my-responsibility/

Haider Ali is young professional works as a Health Safety & Environment Officer in Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH & RC), holds a degree in MPhil Environmental Science from Government College University, Lahore. He writes on burning issues and has been involved in various projects.