ABSTRACT

Governments, private companies, and non-state actors at the international level are showing an increasing interest in the limitation of material losses and promotion of a circular economy model. At the core of this concept, sustainable solid waste management projects have been developed in low- and middle-income countries. Yet few have targeted refugees, a population segment which has increased over the last decades, as has the average duration of displacement. This chapter focuses on the potentiality of solid waste recovery and recycling in refugee camps of the West Bank. Hosting the most long-lasting refugee camps, Occupied Palestinian Territory experienced interesting efforts to establish synergies in solid waste management, both in camps and the surrounding areas, resulting in economic, social, and environmental benefits. Some low-hanging fruits seem achievable, in particular regarding cardboard and organic waste recycling, as long as refugees are properly engaged and integrated. The projects’ results revealed the need to develop a clearly regulated system with recognised duties and responsibilities and proper financial mechanisms. A better involvement of private companies is essential, as well as encouraging progressive formalisation of the informal sector. The conditional elements for long-term effective sustainable recycling include efficient coordination, real engagement of the relevant stakeholders, and a proper trust-building process.