Acting Minister of Environment discusses ways waste collection, sorting, and recycling in Zarayeb District

CAIRO – 7 February 2026: Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, met with former minister Dr. Laila Iskandar and relevant officials to discuss urgent and long-term solutions to curb recurring fires in the Manshiyat Nasser area (aka Al-Zarayeb District) and regulate waste collection, sorting, and recycling activities in line with environmental standards. 

The meeting followed a recent fire at a refuse-derived fuel (RDF) storage facility in Al-Zarayeb, prompting authorities to reaffirm a ban on RDF activities within Manshiyat Nasser and limit them to licensed recycling facilities, with legal action against violators.

Discussions also focused on addressing risks posed by plastic recycling and pelletizing workshops operating within residential areas, including plans to conduct a comprehensive survey and classification of craft activities to organize the sector safely and reduce fire and environmental hazards. 

Officials stressed the need to develop a comprehensive plan for these industries, promote waste segregation at the source, and direct organic waste to proper treatment facilities, while ensuring public health, environmental safety, and the protection of livelihoods.