Market Trends of Middle-East and Africa Hazardous Waste Handling Automation Industry
This section covers the major market trends shaping the MEA Hazardous Waste Handling Automation Market according to our research experts:
Demand for Automated Handling Solutions May Increase Safer Handling and Disposable of E-waste
Electronic waste (e-waste) is defined as the remains of electronic gadgets such as mobile phones, computers, fluorescent and incandescent light bulbs, electronic gadgets used in automobiles, and large household appliances such as television sets, refrigerators, washing machines, etc., which are not working or are nearing their end of life.
According to a report by the UN, about 50 million ton of e-waste is generated every year, which will more than double to 110 million ton by 2050, making it the fastest-growing waste stream in the world. However, less than 20% of used electronics are currently recycled. Africa holds the lowest rate of formal e-waste recycling in the world.
An article published by Environmental Health Perspectives shows that 100,000 used personal computers arrive at the Nigerian port of Lagos alone each month. Ghana also faces challenges in managing the e-waste imported. Usually, these e-wastes end up in landfills.
Heavy metals and other hazardous chemicals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, brominated flame-retardants, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), found in electronics, contaminate groundwater and pose other environmental and public conditions health risks.
To avoid such risks and ensure the safety of people, the governments in the region are taking initiatives both standalone and in collaboration with external agencies for the safe disposal of hazardous waste. For instance, Sustainable City (TSC), the Middle East's first fully-operational sustainable community located in Dubai, has introduced new electronic waste (e-waste) collection and management solutions for the community. The 24-Hour e-Waste drop-off station, created in collaboration with EFATE, will provide a free and efficient e-waste management solution to residents and the general public.
Saudi Arabia is Expected to Hold a Significant Market Share
Saudi Arabia is among the largest countries in the Middle-East and African region and generates a significant amount of hazardous waste due to the presence of several industries. The majority of these industries are from the oil and gas and automotive sectors.
According to OPEC, Saudi Arabia possesses around 17% of the world's proven petroleum reserves. The oil and gas sector accounts for about 50% of gross domestic product and about 70% of export earnings. Apart from petroleum, the Kingdom's other natural resources include natural gas, iron ore, gold, and copper.
Owing to the rising disposable income, the consumption of electronic gadgets in the country is increasing significantly, which is also the primary contributor to the generation of e-waste in the country.
According to the regional e-waste monitor report for the Arab States 2021, by UNITAR, Saudi Arabia is the largest generator of e-waste among Arab countries, with 595 kilotons (kt) (or 13.2 kg/inh) of e-waste in 2019.
To regulate the safe disposal of waste, the government is taking several initiatives. For instance, the government published a new Waste Management Law in September 2021, which aims to regulate the transport, segregation, storage, import, export, safe disposal of waste, and all other activities related to it. Such trends are expected to drive the market growth in the region during the forecast period.
