The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) announced the start of the “Developing E-Waste Management Regulations” initiative, launched in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), to implement regulations in Zambia, Rwanda, and Paraguay. The announcement was made during COP28, which was attended by H.E. Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, CST Governor, Mr.Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the ITU and representatives of beneficiary countries.
CST indicated that this initiative aims to reinforce the Kingdom's ongoing commitment to lead global efforts in digital sustainability, accelerate the transition to green practices by introducing regulations that promote a circular economy; in addition to offering innovative solutions for mitigating e-waste globally, which currently amounts 54 million tons annually, only 17% of which is recycled.
In addition, Mr.Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the ITU, highlighted the importance of creating strong regulations and legislation to address the e-waste in both the private and public sectors, and transition to the circular economy, which is one of the top solutions in facing the negative impact of e-waste on the environment. Moreover, Mr. Lamanauskas encouraged the adoption and implementation of such regulations by all regulators, to accelerate the shift towards green practices.
CST participated at COP28 to promote Saudi Arabia's endeavors to lead global efforts in enabling digital sustainability, which is in line with the Kingdom's transformation to circular economy, as it has worked on several qualitative initiatives that have contributed to raising awareness and publicizing the best technology practices for a sustainable future and society.
