The aim of this project delivered by ISL was to inform the development of a national sustainable and integrated Industrial Waste Exchange (IWEX) programme in Egypt by examining international best practice for IWEX in 3 chosen countries (UK, South Africa and Turkey).

After examining the strengths and weaknesses of various models of IWEX and methods of support (financing structures) the recommendation for IWEX taking into account Egyptian context was a facilitated industrial symbiosis model supported by public/institutional investment. Identifying various models of IWEX (including industrial symbiosis) highlighted the barriers and challenges to running a successful programme (such as waste classification and legislation), enabling Egypt to make significant progress quickly.

A roadmap then described the short, medium and long-term actions for developing new markets, stimulating entrepreneurial opportunities and generating green jobs. Regulation and monitoring are important factors determining the success of IWEX, however, the roadmap acknowledged that policy and regulatory changes often take time to implement and whilst they often provide drivers for IWEX they are best introduced based on feedback and experience from delivery of IWEX.

Recommendations for informed changes in this area include adopting an existing waste classification, tightening up definition of waste and clear ownership.