Debris recycling in Iraq

Main purpose
Clean-up / waste management,
Rehabilitation and reconstruction of critical infrastructure (transport, housing, energy, water infrastructure)

Other expected benefits
Provision / protection / diversification of employment and livelihoods / poverty reduction

Reported elements of good practices

The following key success criteria for the safe and environmentally sound management of debris recycling sites were applicable:
• Ensure the debris recycling works do not impact negatively on the neighbouring residents and other human activities;
• Establish safe systems of work to protect the debris recycling operatives, staff and visitors;
• Ensure that the debris recycling works do not lead to a negative impact on the surrounding flora, fauna and environment including groundwater; and,
• Facilitate debris recycling to occur close to the source of the debris to reduce transport costs, emissions and truck movements.

Reported challenges

It is recognised that debris, especially from the conflict-affected areas of Iraq, can contain a range of wastes, materials and substances that are harmful to humans, flora, fauna and the surrounding environment. These wastes, materials and substances include: Explosive devices, unexploded ordnance; Hazardous wastes such as oils, lubricants and solvents from industrial sites; Corpses; Chemicals and pesticides, including chemical warfare agents such as Yperite (mustard gas) or explosive substances; Heavy metals from the structural elements of the damaged building; and Medical wastes from hospitals or health centres. Contamination impacts negatively both on the health and safety of the persons handling the debris as well as potential detrimental impact on the end-use of the recycled debris.