Saudi Arabia's waste management system is severely challenged. It is contending with more than a fair share of waste generation per capita, sporadic peaks during religious festivals, and a lengthy history of dependency on landfills. In its pursuit of a sustainable circular economy, Saudi Arabia has established the National Waste Digital Platform (NWDP). The platform is an integrated digital platform that links citizens, municipal staff, contractors, sorters, and regulators through data-driven operations.
The NWDP realizes its goals by leveraging various technologies, including smart bins with IoT, stream processing, AI/ML routing, blockchain for document tracking, and ESG dashboards. This setup connects real-time data to systems, enhancing the capability to track performance and accountability throughout the supply chain. The operation process is sequential, starting with source segregation and asset registration, proceeding to optimized collection, computerized sorting, and a proven marketplace, all supported by performance-based incentive systems. The NWDP should improve recycling recoveries, significantly reduce landfill use, and minimize environmental pollution. It further encourages participatory citizenship and facilitates verification of ESG standards. By consolidating various waste services into a single circular supply chain, the platform facilitates more efficient planning and operations. The NWDP is a key national database. It enables evidence-based policy-making, carbon emissions tracking, and investment planning for green circular economy activities in the Kingdom.