Potential Opportunities for Waste to Energy and Recycling in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The disposal of solid waste was considered a major concern for all developing countries like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The high population growth rate annually in KSA, fast urbanization, and an increase in the number of pilgrims and visitors annually, all lead to an increase in the levels of waste products. The generation rate of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is expected to reach 26.9 million tons per year in 2032. The recent studies show that the major components of MSW in KSA were organic waste, plastics, paper, cardboard, and organic present the highest percentage which indicating its potential for energy generation. This paper explains the current practices of MSW Management systems and the potential opportunities for Waste-to-Energy and Recycling in the country. The use of Waste-to-Energy and recycling technologies will provide eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions for MSW disposal problems in the country. The environmental benefits involve reducing global warming and emissions, carbon pollution, enhancing air quality, and maintaining soil and groundwater.