Harnessing Renewable Waste as a Pathway and Opportunities Toward Sustainability in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Region

Abdullah Alghafis (), Haneen Bawayan, Sultan Alghamdi, Mohamed Nejlaoui and Abdullah Alrashidi
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Abdullah Alghafis: Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia
Haneen Bawayan: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
Sultan Alghamdi: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
Mohamed Nejlaoui: Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia
Abdullah Alrashidi: Engineering College, Northern Border University, Arar 91431, Saudi Arabia

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 20, 1-30

Abstract: This review examines the vast opportunities and key challenges in renewable waste management across the Gulf region, with a particular emphasis on Saudi Arabia. As global demand for sustainable energy intensifies, driven by technological advancements and environmental concerns, the Gulf Cooperation Council nations, notably Saudi Arabia, are beginning to acknowledge the urgency of transitioning from fossil fuel reliance to renewable waste management. This review identifies the abundant renewable resources in the region and highlights progress in policy development while emphasizing the need for comprehensive frameworks and financial incentives to drive further investment and innovation. Waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies offer a promising avenue for reducing environmental degradation and bolstering energy security. With Saudi Arabia targeting the development of 3 Gigawatts of WTE capacity by 2030 as part of national sustainability initiatives, barriers such as regulatory complexities, financial constraints, and public misconceptions persist. Ultimately, this review concludes that advancing renewable waste management in the Gulf, particularly through stronger policies, stakeholders’ collaboration, investment in WTE and an enhancement in public awareness and education, is critical for achieving sustainability goals. By harnessing these opportunities, the region can take decisive steps toward achieving sustainability, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in the global fight against climate change and resource depletion.

Keywords: energy efficiency; renewable energy; sustainability; sustainable development goal; renewable waste management; energy policies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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