Gaza reconstruction study explores recycling rubble to build artificial islands offshore

What happened

UN News Middle East Gaza reports that a feasibility study coordinated by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is underway to assess whether Gaza’s extensive war debris—amounting to nearly 57 million tonnes—can be recycled to reclaim coastal land and construct artificial islands as part of the enclave’s reconstruction strategy.

Outside Brief is treating this as a source-led account. Any disputed responsibility, casualty figure or battlefield claim should be read as unconfirmed/hearsay unless confirmed by another reliable source. The study weighs scenarios including using recycled concrete and rubble to extend the Mediterranean coastline and build offshore islands, which would also reduce the need for dredging and fresh material extraction. However, UNEP cautions that the volume of recyclable debris is insufficient for large-scale land reclamation: while nearly 200 million cubic metres of aggregates are needed for the proposed 14 square kilometre reclamation, only about 10 million cubic metres can come from recycled rubble.

Recycling efforts face multiple challenges such as the mixed composition of Gaza’s rubble, which includes reusable materials like concrete and reinforced steel alongside hazardous waste like asbestos and unexploded ordnance. UN teams are setting up recycling centers to process clean debris, but progress depends on access to heavy machinery currently restricted by Israel for security reasons.

Known from the source

• Nearly 57 million tonnes of rubble from over two years of conflict have damaged Gaza’s built environment.
• Three quarters of Gaza’s built environment has been destroyed.
• The proposed land reclamation project would restore 14 square kilometres along the Mediterranean coast.
• The project requires about 200 million cubic metres of aggregates; only around 10 million cubic metres can be sourced from recycled debris.
• UNEP co-chairs the Debris Management Working Group advising on the reconstruction plan.

What remains unclear

Additional complexities involve preserving cultural heritage sites damaged during the war and complying with environmental regulations including Palestinian Environment Law No. 7 of 1999, which mandates environmental impact assessments for projects affecting ecosystems. UNEP highlights precedents from Lebanon and Japan where rubble was reused for land reclamation, noting these offer lessons but require strict technical controls and governance.

What remains unclear: Current volume and safety status of rubble available for recycling in Gaza. Detailed results and technical viability of the feasibility study. Exact extent of access allowed for heavy equipment into Gaza for debris processing. Environmental and legal clearance status for the land reclamation project under Palestinian and international law.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: UN News Middle East Gaza. Open the source.