Checkpoint 1 Submission
Project Topic:
Plastic Waste Pollution in Saudi Arabia’s Coastal Areas
Problem Summary:
Beaches in Jeddah, Dammam, and Khobar face increasing plastic waste due to tourism and single-use plastics. This harms marine life and reduces coastal sustainability.
Why It Matters:
The issue affects the environment, public health, and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sustainability goals.
Systems Thinking Approach:
Iceberg Model – Identify visible waste and deeper causes. BOTG – Show trends in plastic waste and recycling rates. CLD – Map interactions between tourism, plastic use, and policies. Archetypes – Use 'Tragedy of the Commons' to explain shared responsibility. Initial Sustainable Solutions:
Reduce single-use plastics in coastal zones. Install recycling bins and awareness signs. Support cleanup and conservation programs. Promote biodegradable alternatives.