Cairo: Minister of Local Development and Environment Manal Awad recently presented Egypt's future strategy for sustainable development, environmental protection, and local governance reform during a session before the House of Representatives' energy and environment committee led by MP Tarek El-Molla.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Awad emphasized that the integration of local development and environmental management is aimed at empowering governorates and localizing environmental policies. This approach seeks to transform environmental efforts into drivers of economic growth, leveraging digital transformation and AI tools.

The strategy prioritizes the improvement of public services, infrastructure upgrades, the strengthening of complaint systems, and the enhancement of participation by women, youth, and people with disabilities in local decision-making processes. It also aims to boost green economic growth through private sector participation, sustainable investment, eco-tourism, and industrial development that complies with environmental standards.

Awad highlighted ongoing initiatives to reduce pollution, expand recycling, and improve waste management. These efforts are part of the broader implementation of Egypt's climate strategy and national afforestation programs. She also addressed reforms in digital environmental governance, focusing on modernized licensing systems and improved monitoring and transparency.

Furthermore, the minister noted recent achievements in waste-to-energy projects, bioenergy initiatives, and significant upgrades in environmental infrastructure, with environmental investments amounting to approximately EGP 2.89 billion in the 2024/2025 plan.

Lawmakers also discussed key challenges, such as waste management, development of protected areas, and the expansion of private sector involvement to ensure sustainable environmental and economic outcomes.