Biography
Biography: Shabnam S. Lutafali
Abstract
Town of Naryn is a poster child for recycling and creating sustainable environment. In the last 10 years the town’s population has grown from about 35,000 to 53,000 with little planning to address the population’s needs for civic services including recycling and garbage collection. The problem is inflamed by open garbage burning; some garbage (batteries etc.) is poisonous, and when burnt, emit poisons in the atmosphere. Additionally, the coal burning power plant further pollutes the environment. This has negative health consequences for citizens. If the citizens are unhealthy, their productivity suffers negatively impacting on economy and civic life, exacerbating poverty. Children are particularly vulnerable when inhaling noxious fumes that inhibit their physical and mental growth.
Methodology to address garbage sorting and recycling: Naryn should introduce garbage sorting at residential and commercial points of garbage generation. This greatly facilitates recycling and makes the process efficient. Since this will be a new concept for Naryn citizens, it is imperative to produce and distribute illustrated brochures in local language for the citizens; brief infomercials will also help promote recycling. Good venues to introduce recycling concept are schools (primary and secondary), colleges, clinics and hospitals. Local garbage collection personnel will need training to spot and pick up sorted garbage.
Physical requirements: Sorting out garbage at points of generation require separate containers. This is easily accomplished by providing each household and commercial point of collection with different color-coded containers.
Benefits of Recycling: Once garbage sorting is implemented, it creates a win-win situation. Garbage, when properly sorted out, becomes a valuable commodity, e.g. vegetable and fruit cuttings can become compost for backyard gardens. Paper, glass, and metals can be recycled. Recycling will improve the quality of environment and consequently quality of life, including healthy citizens.