“Horse Manure”… From Burdening Luxor’s Streets to Empowering Communities and Protecting the Environment The Small Grants Program Offers Carriage Drivers a Chance to Shape a Brighter Future for the Tourist City
In Luxor—a city where ancient heritage harmonizes with modern life, and horse-drawn carriages roam its historic streets—a simple yet powerful idea emerged: transforming what is often seen as “waste” into a vital resource that improves the environment, enhances livelihoods, and inspires hope for a cleaner, better tomorrow. This idea was embraced by the Small Grants Program (GEF/SGP) through a pioneering initiative titled “Creating Livelihood Opportunities through Training on Recycling Horse Manure into Organic Fertilizer.” The project, implemented by the Nour Al-Islam Charity Association in Luxor, goes beyond environmental impact—it empowers local communities.
From Horse Manure… the Story Begins At an educational seminar held at the Catholic Copts Primary School in Luxor, Dr. Hamed Mohamed Ismail stood before a group of children to talk about animal waste. What initially seemed like an “off-putting” topic quickly transformed into a story of environmental rescue, job creation, organic farming, and even renewable energy.
“Manure is not the end—it’s the beginning of a new life cycle,” Dr. Ismail said, summarizing the project’s philosophy. He explained how recycling organic waste can prevent land degradation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, preserve water purity, and minimize pollution.
A Cleaner Environment… and a New Source of Income The primary beneficiaries of the project were the carriage drivers, who had grown accustomed to the daily sight of horse droppings on the streets. But a special seminar by Dr. Afaf Abdelbaset titled “The Impact of Safe Manure Disposal on the Environment and Human Health” marked a turning point. She explained the environmental and health risks of neglecting this waste—from insect infestations and disease to air and water pollution, all of which deter tourists and tarnish the city’s image.
She then presented practical, realistic solutions: designated bags for manure collection, specific disposal zones, and the transformation of waste into organic fertilizer or even bioenergy.
Through training and awareness, carriage drivers began to see manure not as a burden, but as a new income stream. The organic fertilizer produced can be sold to farmers or used in green projects. Biogas extracted from the manure can serve as an alternative to traditional fuels in homes and communities.
Children as Partners in Change The next generation wasn’t left out—they were at the heart of the initiative. Seeds of environmental awareness were planted early. Children learned that the environment isn’t a distant concept but a personal responsibility. They drew, discussed, and imagined their city free of foul odors, insects, and polluted streets. This fostered a culture of environmental consciousness built on understanding, not rote instruction.
A Replicable Model The Small Grants Program (GEF/SGP) offers a practical example of what small, community-driven initiatives can achieve when guided by science and social engagement. This is not merely a recycling project—it’s a holistic development experience that touches the environment, economy, education, and public health.
When local communities are given the tools, knowledge, and trust, they become active partners in sustainable development. The horse manure recycling project in Luxor stands as a true success story—proving that environmental solutions aren’t always complex. Sometimes, they begin with a simple bag behind a carriage and end with a cleaner environment and lasting hope for future generations.