Solid Waste Management in Ubari, Libya: Reality, Obstacles, and Solutions

This study investigates the current state of solid waste management in the city of Ubari, located in the southwest of Libya, amidst escalating environmental and economic challenges and the absence of an effective and sustainable system for waste handling. The research aims to evaluate the existing situation concerning the collection, transportation, storage, and final disposal of waste, with a focus on daily generated quantities, the composition of household solid waste within the city, the level of public awareness, and the availability of human and material resources. The study estimates the individual waste generation rate to be approximately 1 kg/day, resulting in a total annual production of 17,520 tons. This waste is collected using traditional methods and limited equipment, lacking a sorting or recycling system and exhibiting a near-complete absence of treatment facilities or sanitary landfills. The research also identified several significant obstacles, including insufficient funding and resources, a scarcity of trained personnel, and a weak role in monitoring and law enforcement. The study recommends the necessity of developing a comprehensive waste management strategy grounded in sustainability principles, training local personnel, activating the role of media and environmental education for the community, alongside fostering collaboration between the municipality, governmental bodies, and the private sector to promote and support sustainable waste management. Keywords: Solid Waste Management, Ubari City, Landfill, Environmental Pollution, Sustainable Waste Management.