SDG 12 in Lebanon: Responsible Consumption and Production

Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG 12) focuses on ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns, which are essential for preserving natural resources and minimizing environmental degradation. In Lebanon, this goal is particularly important given the country’s challenges with waste management, inefficient resource use, and environmental pollution. The Lebanese government, in collaboration with various local and international partners, has been working to promote sustainable consumption and production practices, though it continues to face obstacles due to economic instability and political challenges.

Lebanon’s Approach to SDG 12: Promoting Sustainable Consumption and Production

Waste Management and Recycling:

One of Lebanon’s most pressing environmental issues is solid waste management. The country has experienced several waste crises over the years, leading to the accumulation of garbage in public spaces and illegal dumping. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of a comprehensive national waste management plan and the absence of adequate recycling facilities.

In response, the Lebanese government has made efforts to improve waste management through the Ministry of Environment and local municipalities. A national strategy for solid waste management was introduced to promote recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy solutions. The government has also worked on closing open dumpsites and expanding landfill capacity to manage solid waste more effectively. However, challenges persist, particularly due to limited infrastructure and financial constraints.

Recycling programs have been launched in various cities, encouraging citizens to separate waste and reduce overall consumption. The government has partnered with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the private sector to raise awareness about recycling and sustainable waste disposal practices.

Sustainable Resource Management:

Lebanon faces significant challenges related to the overconsumption of natural resources, particularly water, energy, and land. The Ministry of Energy and Water and the Ministry of Environment have implemented policies aimed at promoting the efficient use of resources and reducing waste.

The government has introduced energy efficiency programs aimed at reducing energy consumption in households, businesses, and public buildings. These programs encourage the adoption of energy-efficient appliances, the use of renewable energy sources, and the development of sustainable building practices.

In the agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture has been working to promote sustainable farming practices that minimize the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides. The government supports organic farming and encourages the adoption of techniques that conserve water and reduce soil degradation.

Sustainable Public Procurement:

The Lebanese government has been working on integrating sustainable practices into public procurement. Through its partnerships with international organizations, Lebanon is developing policies to ensure that public purchases favor environmentally friendly products and services. This includes promoting the use of energy-efficient technologies, supporting local and sustainable suppliers, and prioritizing products with lower environmental impact.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are being explored as a means of encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable production methods, while government institutions adopt green procurement practices. These efforts aim to create a market for sustainable goods and services and drive demand for responsible production.

Sustainable Development Policies and International Support:

Lebanon has collaborated with international organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU) to integrate sustainability into national policies. The government’s National Sustainable Development Strategy focuses on aligning economic and environmental goals, promoting sustainable industries, and reducing resource waste.

Various international projects, such as the SwitchMed Program, aim to promote eco-innovation and sustainable business practices in Lebanon. These initiatives provide technical assistance to businesses, helping them adopt cleaner production methods and reduce their environmental footprint. They also support capacity-building for government agencies to promote SDG 12 and create a framework for sustainable production and consumption.

Public Awareness Campaigns:

Raising awareness among citizens is crucial to promoting sustainable consumption patterns. The Lebanese government, alongside NGOs and environmental groups, has launched campaigns to educate the public on reducing waste, conserving energy, and adopting environmentally conscious lifestyles. Initiatives like waste sorting at the source and public workshops on sustainability have been implemented to engage communities in responsible consumption efforts.

Challenges:

Lebanon faces significant barriers in fully implementing SDG 12, primarily due to the ongoing economic crisis, political instability, and inadequate infrastructure. The country’s financial limitations hinder the development of comprehensive waste management and recycling systems. Additionally, the lack of enforcement mechanisms for environmental regulations and the high costs associated with sustainable production methods make it difficult for businesses to adopt green practices.

Despite these challenges, Lebanon’s government remains committed to promoting sustainable consumption and production through partnerships with international donors, the private sector, and civil society organizations.

Beirut Arab University and SDG 12: Promoting Sustainability in Academia and Beyond

Beirut Arab University (BAU) plays an important role in advancing SDG 12 by integrating sustainability into its academic programs, research, and campus operations. The university actively promotes responsible consumption and production through various initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and raising awareness among students, faculty, and the wider community.

Academic Programs on Sustainability:

BAU’s Faculty of Science and Faculty of Engineering offer academic programs focused on environmental sciences, sustainable engineering, and green technologies. These programs equip students with the knowledge and skills to address challenges related to resource management, waste reduction, and environmental sustainability.

Courses on sustainable production, renewable energy, and environmental management encourage students to explore innovative solutions for reducing resource consumption and promoting responsible production practices. By educating future leaders and professionals in sustainability, BAU contributes to Lebanon’s efforts to achieve SDG 12.

Research on Sustainable Consumption and Production:

BAU conducts research on various aspects of sustainability, including resource efficiency, waste management, and eco-friendly technologies. The university’s research centers collaborate with local industries and government agencies to develop innovative solutions that promote sustainable production and consumption patterns in Lebanon.

Research at BAU also addresses challenges such as water conservation, energy efficiency, and pollution reduction, offering practical recommendations for improving sustainable practices in Lebanon’s industrial, agricultural, and urban sectors.

Sustainable Campus Initiatives:

BAU has implemented several initiatives to reduce the environmental footprint of its campuses, aligning with the goals of SDG 12. These efforts include:

Energy Efficiency: BAU has adopted energy-saving measures, such as using energy-efficient lighting, improving building insulation, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources like solar panels. These measures aim to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable practices within the university community.

Waste Reduction and Recycling: The university has introduced a comprehensive waste management program that promotes recycling and waste reduction across its campuses. BAU encourages students and staff to minimize single-use plastics, recycle materials, and participate in campus-wide environmental campaigns. These efforts contribute to reducing waste and promoting a culture of sustainability on campus.

Sustainable Procurement: BAU’s procurement policies prioritize the purchase of eco-friendly products and services. The university sources sustainable materials, supports local suppliers, and ensures that its procurement practices align with the principles of responsible consumption.

Community Engagement and Awareness:

BAU is committed to raising awareness about sustainable consumption and production both within the university and in the wider community. The university organizes workshops, seminars, and conferences on sustainability topics, such as waste management, resource conservation, and green technologies. These events engage students, faculty, and the public in discussions about sustainability and encourage the adoption of more environmentally conscious practices.

Additionally, BAU collaborates with local municipalities and environmental organizations to promote sustainable practices in Lebanese communities. The university’s outreach programs focus on educating the public about the importance of reducing waste, conserving resources, and adopting eco-friendly lifestyles.

Collaborations and Partnerships:

BAU works with national and international organizations to advance sustainability goals in Lebanon. The university partners with NGOs, government agencies, and international bodies such as the UNDP and EU on projects aimed at promoting responsible consumption and production.

These partnerships allow BAU to contribute to national efforts to achieve SDG 12 by leveraging the expertise and resources of its collaborators. Through joint initiatives, BAU helps promote sustainable practices across industries and communities in Lebanon.

Lebanon faces significant challenges in implementing SDG 12 due to inadequate waste management, inefficient resource use, and political and economic instability. The government, through its ministries and in collaboration with international organizations, is working to address these issues by promoting recycling, sustainable procurement, and resource efficiency. However, progress is slow, and much work remains to be done to ensure that Lebanon adopts sustainable consumption and production practices.

Beirut Arab University plays a vital role in advancing SDG 12 by promoting sustainability through its academic programs, research, and campus operations. The university’s efforts to raise awareness about responsible consumption and production, conduct research on sustainable practices, and engage with local communities make it a key player in Lebanon’s pursuit of sustainability. BAU’s commitment to integrating sustainability into education and campus life reflects its dedication to creating a more sustainable future for Lebanon.

Upgrading Heritage Urban Public Spaces by Using Recycling Waste Plastic Materials

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Architecture-Design-and-Built-Environment/Publication/2022-2023/Upgrading-Heritage-Urban-Public-Spaces-by-Using-Recycling-Waste-Plastic-Materials

Abstract

In low-income countries, population expansion and urbanization bring challenges of inadequate living standards to the fore. Some of the issues could be solved if well-functioning plastic recycling systems were built. To reduce the environmental burden and improve the overall situation in dense cities, the already existing local informal waste treatment system, which is widespread in many low-income nations, needs to be developed with efficient sorting and composting solutions. A case study is carried out in the city of Mina, Lebanon, with the goal of establishing a viable decentralized recycling plastic pavilion material. The effort aims to lessen the climate harm caused by non-recycled waste, improve the quality of life for residents, and enhance the affected locations' aesthetical, educational, and recreational attributes. The concepts were generated according to the resident's needs and to find solutions to the existing problem of the area under study. The goals are based on data and observations about the city, the current waste management system, the stakeholders, the project organization, and any roadblocks. The project's overall work method is known as the Logical Framework Approach. It's a goal-oriented project planning method that relies on disciplined thinking and logical analysis. Literature review, observations, study visits, site analyses, photography, drawing, 3D modeling, and other sub-methods are included in the study. Proposals for plastic pavilions and plastic features for open public spaces in Al Mina are the result of the process. Because the areas have both comparable and dissimilar characteristics, site-specific solutions are required.

Journal/Conference Information

BAU Journal: Creative Sustainable Development,DOI: https://doi.org/10.54729/2789-8334.1101 , ISSN: 2789-8334, Volume: 4, Issue: 2, Pages Range: 1-12,

 Link to full paper

Zero Waste Is Not Science Fiction Ziad Abi Chaker at BAU

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/Zero-Waste-Is-Not-Science-Fiction-Ziad-Abi-Chaker-at-BAU

Beirut Arab University hosted a lecture for the Engineer Ziad Abi Chaker entitled "Zero Waste is Not Science Fiction", owing to the fact that Lebanon has been dealing with a waste crisis since 2015, and how we may achieve "zero waste" by recycling and using trash in the industrial realm.
The lecture was attended by the Minister of Culture, H.E. Mohammad Wissam Mortada, represented by Dr. Nizar Daher, the Chairman of the University’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Ammar Houri, the President of the University, Prof. Amr Galal El-Adawi, the Vice President for Medical Sciences, Prof. Essam Osman, the Secretary General of the University, Dr. Omar Houri, the Deans of the University, and a crowd of students and interested audience.

After the Lebanese national anthem, followed by the university’s anthem, Mrs. Zina Ariss, Director of Public Relations and Communications, introduced the lecturer Mr. Ziad Abi Chaker, saying, "Our crises in Lebanon do not end, and the most serious of them is their harm to public health first, the environment second, and civilization third. The worst part of the trash situation in our country, Lebanon, is that the government is not taking any action, despite the fact that there are solutions out there for those who have the expertise and the will to implement them.”

Mr. Ziad then said, “The title "Zero Waste" has become a necessity in our country today, where we are working on spreading awareness about how to recycle and treat waste. There are many communities that preach the so-called zero waste, this is not beyond our reach as Lebanese people, and it would be wrong to resort to burying or burning waste, instead, an infrastructure must be created to recycle it."

Furthermore, "Today, waste is not only household waste, either organic or not, but construction waste, medical and pharmaceutical waste, as well as electronic waste. The scope of what societies consume and throw away is now very large, and this is an issue that is no longer acceptable."
Mr. Abi Chaker continued, “Any plan that adopts the principle of zero waste separates these categories from each other, as it’s known very well that their treatment techniques are different and cannot be placed all within one factory, and the "zero waste" plan for household waste requires that it be transported without resorting to compaction, which prevents the mixing and breaking of what is dangerous with the rest of the existing materials, considering that plastic materials are of economic value because they last long and are not affected by natural factors, so they are recycled and converted into solid structures that use bases for installing solar panels, and sewage covers.”

Mr. Abi Chaker urged the establishment of waste sorting centers and encouraging citizens to do so in their homes, as these materials have high economic value and are able to provide job opportunities and solve the waste problem in Lebanon, and in return we must establish sorting plants instead of random landfills, which facilitates the conversion of organic materials into agricultural fertilizer, while recycling recyclable materials.

After the discussion between the attendees and Engineer Abi Chaker, Mr. Ziad gave Prof. El-Adawi, President of BAU, a glass jug that he had recycled from the August 4th port explosion. In return, Prof. El-Adawi gave Abi Chaker the University Medal as a sign of appreciation and loyalty.

Incoming program in the Mechanical Engineering

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Engineering/News/Incoming-program-in-the-Mechanical-Engineering

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING (B.E.) IN RENEWABLE ENERGY ENGINEERING (RNEE)

Renewable Energy Engineering Program

Renewable Energy Engineering (RNEE) is a 4-year program that consists of 150 credits and aims at educating engineers to acquire the necessary competencies to design, build and operate the green energy infrastructure.

In addition to basic science and math, the program begins by building solid grounding in fundamentals comprising elements from material, mechanical, thermal, and electrical engineering.

This is followed by 4 semesters of advanced engineering courses that cover Solar and Wind Energy, Photovoltaic Cells, Hydropower Generation, and Geothermal Energy.

The curriculum provides students with strong theory and practical hands-on enabling them to devise effective solutions for the generation, distribution, and utilization of green energy for grid-connected and off-grid applications.

The major culminates in a two-semester capstone where students, working in small groups, demonstrate their mastery of the required engineering competencies and the design process.

Program Aim / Objective

To prepare experts in the various aspects of energy and alternative energy sciences and technologies, in particular energy conservation strategies and engineering practices for clean energy production.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates from the Renewable Energy Engineering (RNEE) program are expected to:

• Design, build and operate green energy infrastructures.
• Pursue graduate studies in energy or other related multidisciplinary areas.
• Acquire professional leadership in their fields of expertise and commitment to environment, community, and global society.

Career Opportunities

Renewable Energy Engineers acquire a broad spectrum of skills needed for every profession in the energy industry that is booming worldwide.

A graduate from RNEE program will be qualified to work in Clean Power Generation and Distribution, Solar Energy Systems, Wind Energy Systems, Hydropower Plants and Geothermal Energy Systems, Sustainability, Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Energy System Modelling, and Energy Audit.

Other career options include prominent chances to work in research and development spending huge budgets on green energy studies.

Offered Courses

• Fundamentals of Renewable Energy
• Sustainable and Passive Building Design
• Solar Thermal Energy Systems
• Green Buildings and LEED
• Renewable Energy Lab
• Geothermal Energy & Heat Pump Applications
• Wind Energy
• Energy Management
• Hydraulic Machinery and Stations
• Instrumentation and Measurement
• Control Systems
• Modern Drives
• Power System Operation
• Grid Integration
• Photovoltaic Systems

Program Requirements

The RNEE curriculum consists of the following components:

The Current Petroleum Activities and Sustainability in the Arab World Lecture at BAU

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Public-Relations/News/The-Current-Petroleum-Activities-and-Sustainability-in-the-Arab-world-Lecture-at-BAU

Upon an invitation from the President of Beirut Arab University Prof. Amr Galal El – Adawi, the Society of Petroleum Engineers and the SPE BAU Student Chapter in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering at Beirut Arab University organized a lecture entitled “The Current Petroleum Activities and Sustainability in the Arab world”. The seminar was attended by President of the Society of Petroleum Engineers Dr. Sami Al Nuaim, HE Saad El Hariri represented by Engineer Refaat Saad, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates in Lebanon Dr. Hamad Saeed Al Shamusi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Lebanon Mr. Walid Bin Abdullah Bukhari and a crowd of experts and interested audience.

After the Lebanese Anthem and BAU Anthem, Head of SPE-BAU Student Chapter Youssef Abdul Hadi opened the seminar with a speech in which he highlighted the importance of the students' presence in SPE in Lebanon, for they must join this industry as professionals. Chairman of BAU Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Departments and the Faculty Advisor for BAU Chapter Dr. Rami Harkouss spoke about "the role of oil and its contribution to social development, as well as the need for common interests among the Arab countries and their cooperation at all levels such as the establishment of unified Arab funds and the establishment of a Lebanese academic community in order to activate joint academic research.”

Dean of Faculty of Engineering Professor Adel Al Kordi considered that “the production of oil is one of the greatest challenges facing the world at present and its importance is highlighted as the foundation of the industrial renaissance and an important strategic commodity in international trade. Undoubtedly, oil has a major influence on all sectors. Therefore, our Arab world has become the focus of attention of the countries with an oil-based economy, resulting in some of the problems and unrest that have become a part of our daily life.”

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Lebanese Petroleum Administration and Head of Strategic Planning Department Mr. Walid Nasr stressed “the importance of establishing an integrated legislative system and strengthening the laws of transparency to restore confidence between the government and the Lebanese, which can be achieved through monitoring and accountability.” He also tackled several issues, including sustainability, environment preservation and value creation through the promotion of investment.

Nasr also emphasized that “the second licensing cycle will begin upon the approval of the Council of Ministers” and stressed “the need to complete the studies on how to take advantage of gas in the local market and benefit from the Lebanese cadres among universities and students to secure employment opportunities for individuals and Lebanese partnerships.”

The President of Society of Petroleum Engineers, Beirut Section and Board Member of the Lebanese Petroleum Administration Dr. Nasser Hoteit highlighted “the importance of Arab cooperation for oil investment in Lebanon and the role of each of the leading companies in this sector in the Arab world, especially Aramco, ADNOC and others."

He believed that “it is time Lebanon joined the Arab element in the field of oil,” and hoped for “future cooperation in all fields relevant to exploration, production, and export.”

President of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and Manager of Saudi Aramco’s Petroleum Engineers Services Department Dr. Sami Al Nuaim pointed out that “the oil and gas sector will absorb the increasing demand on energy resulting from population growth and new technological progress.”

“It is necessary to reform the term sustainability as improving human life is our main objective and this reform will be based on three main factors: economic growth, social development and environmental monitoring,” he continued, "oil and gas will continue to be a key part of the future global energy mix with the growing environmental challenge that calls for greater cooperation, stronger participation and the urgent need to develop cleaner and more efficient use of oil and gas.”

Environmental Business and Economics

https://www.bau.edu.lb/Health-and-Wellbeing/environmental-business-and-economics

This subtheme focuses on integrating sustainable practices and principles into the healthcare sector from a business perspective. It recognizes the importance of addressing environmental concerns and social equity within the healthcare industry while promoting economic growth and development. This interdisciplinary field aims to find innovative solutions that balance the provision of quality healthcare services with environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

health and wellbeing

Description of Subtheme:

Environmental economics focuses on the impact of economic activities on the environment and its implications for firms, industries, and the economy as a whole. It aims to maintain a balance between economic development and environmental quality by exploring socio-economic possibilities to reduce pollution and uplift the standard of living. Economists have formulated economy-environment models to explain the various economic activities and their external effects.

The principal objective of environmental economics is to strike a balance between economic development and environmental quality. To achieve this, environmental economists investigate diverse socio-economic strategies aimed at reducing pollution and improving the standard of living. This objective gained prominence following the publication of the Report on Limits to Growth.

Environmental economics aims to tackle environmental problems from an economic welfare framework. The welfare framework covers scarce resources and market failures due to property rights and ethical aspects of different problems of pollution. Thus, it suggests the best possible means to tackle the environmental problems. Environmental issues are about resources. The neo-classical economists have analyzed the use of various resources like fisheries, forests, fossil fuels and water in a rational manner and with environmental values. In fact, environmental values are economic values. It is important for the society to conserve its limited resources in the interest of economic efficiency and welfare.

Currently, environmental pollution is primarily attributed to the misuse of existing technologies and the lack of development of superior alternatives. Environmental economists advocate for the adoption of appropriate and clean technologies that ensure optimal use of economic resources, energy efficiency, and environmental protection. Environmental economics is inherently interdisciplinary, integrating diverse fields such as biology, ecology, physical sciences, ethics, and mainstream economics.

Research Action Plans:

Conduct studies on the impact of economic activities on the environment, develop models for balancing economic development with environmental preservation, explore socio-economic strategies for reducing pollution, and promote the use of clean technologies. This subtheme aligns with two SDGs. The first is SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). The SDG 12 goal emphasizes sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, reducing waste generation, and promoting sustainable practices among businesses. Research under this subtheme contributes by developing models and strategies to achieve these objectives, ultimately leading to more sustainable production and consumption patterns. Second SDG 13 (Climate Action). The SDG 13 goal calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. By focusing on environmental economics, this subtheme addresses the economic factors contributing to climate change, promotes clean technologies, and develops policies to mitigate environmental degradation, aligning closely with the aims of SDG 13.