Ammar Musa, the Mayor of Baghdad, revealed plans on Sunday to designate two parcels of land for a waste treatment and electrical energy production initiative.
The announcement came during a press conference highlighting investment prospects in waste-to-energy ventures, as reported by the Iraqi News Agency (INA).
Musa emphasized the government’s keen interest in such projects, citing their potential for financial and environmental benefits. Waste management is a pressing global issue, particularly for major cities, Musa noted.
Earlier in March, Iraq’s National Investment Commission (NIC) disclosed receiving 17 proposals from both domestic and foreign firms for a waste treatment and electricity generation endeavor in Baghdad.
Last July, Iraqi Electricity Minister Ziyad Ali Fadel affirmed the government’s intent to harness waste recycling for energy production. Fadel led discussions on diversifying energy sources, aligning with governmental directives.
The government’s strategic focus aims to reduce reliance on gas and fossil fuels, transitioning towards cleaner, renewable, and solar energies. This shift not only addresses energy needs but also mitigates emissions, combats global warming, and safeguards the environment.
The Baghdad municipality unveiled plans in mid-November under the ‘0 landfill, 0 emission’ initiative. The proposal aims to convert 3,000 tons of waste daily into 80 megawatts per hour, curbing landfill reliance and environmental degradation.
Waste-to-energy represents an innovative approach, utilizing garbage as a sustainable fuel source for power or heat generation. This initiative marks a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future, minimizing landfill waste while harnessing renewable energy.
