Murshid Initiative: A technology for measuring individuals' carbon footprint
The Wasam Environmental Association launched a unique initiative entitled “Wasam Guide”, a green technology that aims to enable individuals to accurately identify the size of their carbon footprint and the impact of their daily practices on the environment, in a step that reflects the non-profit sector’s commitment to contributing to the achievement of national energy and climate targets.
An environmental context that aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This initiative comes at a time when the world is witnessing major shifts towards a green economy and combating climate change. The "Wasm Guide" aligns directly with the objectives of the "Saudi Green Initiative," stemming from the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which seeks to reduce carbon emissions and raise public awareness of the importance of preserving natural resources. Individual participation in measuring their emissions is the first and essential step towards building a vibrant society that understands its responsibilities towards the planet. Global studies indicate that modifying individual behaviors can effectively contribute to reducing countries' cumulative emissions.
The mechanism of the initiative and scientific analysis
The initiative is based on algorithms built upon rigorous scientific studies that analyze individual consumption patterns of essential resources, such as water and electricity, as well as dietary and transportation habits. Saad Al-Ajmi, a member of the Wasam Environmental Association, revealed details of the initiative, which allows users to understand their environmental impact by measuring daily consumption rates and food quality.
Saad Al-Ajmi
Interactive and immediate assessment of environmental performance
Al-Ajmi explained that the initiative relies on a quick and simple digital survey that uses interactive icons to determine an individual's carbon footprint. The system is fast and accurate, with results categorized into three main levels: "Excellent," "Good," or "Poor." Once the responses are completed, the results are displayed immediately, classifying the participant's environmental performance and giving them a clear picture of their position in the sustainability equation.
From diagnosis to behavior modification
The "Wasm Mentor" program goes beyond diagnosis to provide practical solutions. It offers tailored guidance for continuously improving and developing environmentally friendly behavior. Participants are engaged through email and WhatsApp, receiving regular awareness messages, particularly on international environment days, to ensure the program's lasting impact.
Al-Ajami added that the initiative encourages the adoption of simple but impactful practices, such as walking to mosques, using bicycles for short distances instead of relying entirely on cars, and reducing food waste, which are practices that benefit both public health and the environment.
Expansion plans to spread environmental awareness
He noted that the association aims to spread environmental awareness in schools and markets through interactive screens, emphasizing that the project is still in the development phase to ensure the desired behavioral change is achieved effectively. Al-Ajmi stressed the vital role of media and educational institutions in disseminating environmental awareness among all segments of society, indicating that the association aspires to expand the initiative to include schools, markets, and shops using interactive screens that encourage everyone to measure their environmental impact and contribute to building a greener future.
