Saja Mustafa Younes (ELP 2023) | Water and environmental engineer/deputy of head of the project implementation unit, Nablus Municipality, Palestine
As a Beahrs Environmental Leadership Program alumna (Class of 2023), I draw inspiration from the theme "Peace with Nature," which encapsulates my pursuit of achieving harmony between development and sustainability in Palestine.
In my role as the Deputy Head of the Project Implementation Unit at Nablus Municipality, I oversee projects funded by the German Government through KfW, addressing various environmental challenges to improve community well-being. Among these projects is the Sesame Peeling Machines Project, which introduces pretreatment units at tahini factories. This innovative approach will significantly improve industrial wastewater quality, reduce pollution, and set a model for sustainable practices in this traditional industry.
I also contribute to the implementation of the wastewater treatment plant for Eastern Nablus, a vital project aimed at enhancing water resource management and reducing pollution. Additionally, I managed the Faecal Sludge Receiving Station (SRS) Nablus West project, a new facility designed to receive sewage sludge collected from local septic tanks and cesspits. This facility prevents the improper disposal of wastewater by collection vehicles, protecting the environment and ensuring safer waste management practices.
Additionally, I had the privilege of participating in IFAT Munich 2024, the world’s leading trade fair for water, sewage, waste, and raw materials management. This experience allowed me to gain insights, network with industry experts, and explore innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The knowledge and connections I gained from this event will undoubtedly enrich our environmental initiatives and contribute to sustainable development in Nablus. I am deeply grateful to Nablus Municipality and KfW for their support in facilitating this invaluable opportunity.
Beyond my municipal responsibilities, I am deeply passionate about exploring creative solutions for urban environments. For instance, I am invested in aquaponics, a system combining fish farming and hydroponic plant cultivation in a closed-loop system that optimizes resource use and minimizes waste.
Beyond my municipal responsibilities, I am deeply passionate about exploring creative solutions for urban environments. For instance, I am invested in aquaponics, a system combining fish farming and hydroponic plant cultivation in a closed-loop system that optimizes resource use and minimizes waste.
I am also developing a personal initiative, Balkonti Green, which promotes hydroponic gardening in urban spaces such as balconies and kitchens, particularly in areas lacking agricultural soil. To enhance its impact, I am working on a smart app that integrates artificial intelligence to optimize water usage and enable remote monitoring. This initiative aligns with my vision of sustainable living while actively empowering women and youth to engage in climate action.
In 2024, I published a paper titled "Effectiveness of Advanced Oxidation Process for the Pretreatment of Mixed Agrofood Industrial Wastewater from Nablus City, Palestine" in the International Journal of Environmental Studies (Q1, Impact Factor 4.4). This study offers insights into advanced wastewater treatment technologies and proposes practical solutions to industrial environmental challenges.
The Beahrs ELP experience was a pivotal turning point in my career, expanding my understanding of environmental leadership and equipping me with innovative strategies to tackle challenges. Since completing the program, I have experienced a profound shift in my approach to environmental leadership, which is reflected in my work at Nablus Municipality and my personal initiatives.
Working at Nablus Municipality is undoubtedly challenging, but it provides a vital platform to develop impactful projects that contribute to global sustainability goals. Through innovative thinking, collaboration, and persistence, I believe we can bridge the gap between development and conservation, creating a future where humanity thrives in harmony with nature.
I look forward to connecting with fellow alumni to exchange ideas, share experiences, and collaborate on innovative solutions that contribute to "Peace with Nature." Together, we can leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Blog photos provided by the blog author, Saja Mustafa Younes.