Introduction of a Recycling System for Sustainable Municipal Solid Waste Management

Abstract

This chapter proposes for the introduction of a recycling system in developing countries to enhance sustainable municipal solid waste (MSW) management. Poor infrastructures, coupled with inadequate resources and lack of funding, work against the optimization of a MSW disposal service. Authorities in charge of waste management need to change not only behaviors, but modernize their processes. Recycling technology is a key part of the solution. A model has been developed which suggest the involvement of stakeholders to achieve meaningful sustainable MSWM. This can be achieved by recognizing the role of the informal sector through community-based organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and the private sector. The open dump approach is leading to severe environmental consequences as groundwater and soil is been contaminated. In this chapter, an integrated municipal solid waste management approach was developed with a model to help achieve sustainable municipal solid waste management. Resource recovery, not waste disposal, must be the ultimate goal with clearly defined end user markets so that the recovery loop is complete. Mandatory sorting of waste at household level would help greatly in making recycling activity successful.