Urban Solid Waste ManagementThis documentation targets the limitations and challenges of contemporary solid waste management mechanisms in developing contexts, namely:
1. Low financial resources at municipal level for waste management and technological research;
2. Improper disposal of waste leading to extensive landfilling, littering in public places and choking of public infrastructure (drains, paths, gardens etc.);
3. Air, water and soil pollution due to release of GHG’s & foul smelling gases, stagnation of water bodies and leaching from landfills etc.;
4. Lack of a waste management culture and awareness amongst citizens.
5. Under-recognition of the role of the informal sector in waste management. The role of waste related activities in the marginalization of certain sections of society.
By studying a number of waste management initiatives in cities across the world, this document serves as a directory of relevant waste management solutions that aim at the reduction of waste generated; recycling/reuse/recovery of waste at all levels of handling – from home to landfill; better handling of residual waste particularly with the integration of modern technology;
ecologically sound and socially just waste management.