Doha, Qatar: Qatar Foundation’s (QF) Education City promotes ecological responsibility and Islamic values by hosting an innovative Zero-Waste Community Iftar, merging sustainability with religious principles.
The Iftar event held at Minaretein Center (Education City Mosque), is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and brings together people from across Qatar to break their fast. This initiative fosters the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan while encouraging participants to embrace principles of moderation and sustainability.
The Business Transformation Project Manager at QF’s Minaretein Center, Wasif Ali Khan, speaking to The Peninsula shared his insights into the planning and growth of the Zero-Waste Community Iftar initiative, emphasising how it aligns with Qatar Foundation’s broader commitment to sustainability.
“Hosting a zero-waste Iftar requires careful planning and coordination. First, we work closely with suppliers to ensure all packaging is fully recyclable. We also recruit and manage between 100 and 150 volunteers daily to assist with logistics. Additionally, we design the space—set up in the Minaretein building parking lot—to be functional and efficient for a smooth and sustainable experience,” he said.
The Zero-Waste Community Iftar, now in its third year, has been optimised by the organisers to enhance its impact. The significant gathering brings together around 2,200 community members for Iftar, honouring the spirit of Ramadan.
The iftar follows zero-waste goals by reducing waste. The portions are sized to minimise leftovers, and each person gets one eco-friendly package instead of multiple containers to reduce plastic waste. Whole fruit is served instead of packaged fruit, reusable table covers are used, and water dispensers replace plastic bottles. Any food waste is turned into compost for use at Education City.
“Each year, we have optimised the programme to enhance its impact. We have focused on maximising the amount of compost generated, minimising waste, and improving awareness initiatives by offering educational programs in multiple languages. Additionally, we have expanded our tent to accommodate more attendees, growing the capacity to support up to 2,500 community members per day,” said Khan.
“Each day, we welcome around 2,200 community members for the Iftar, making it a significant gathering that brings people together in the spirit of Ramadan,” he added.
Khan emphasised that the Zero-Waste Community Iftar embodies Qatar Foundation’s dedication to sustainability in multiple ways.
“All waste generated is carefully segregated and composted, then repurposed as fertiliser for Qatar Foundation’s landscaping efforts. Beyond waste management, the event serves as a platform to raise awareness about sustainable practices, many of which are already embedded in Islamic traditions,” he said.
“We are humbled by the incredible support this initiative has received and are grateful to the volunteers who dedicate their time throughout the 30 days of Ramadan to serve the community. It is truly an honour for the Minaretein Center to contribute to such a well-received programme, and we look forward to continuing this meaningful work in the years to come,” he added.
