Chapter 14 - Legacy waste management and dumpsite remediation in India: A policy drive for garbage-free cities

Abstract

Effectively managing solid wastes and mitigating associated hazards pose significant challenges for cities and pollution control authorities worldwide. India, in particular, has faced environmental and health risks for the past two decades, mainly attributable to improper disposal of municipal solid waste. Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, policymakers in India have intensified efforts to manage the colossal quantities of aged waste, commonly referred to as legacy waste, buried in dumpsites and landfills. This chapter focuses on a framework designed for the optimal utilization of various waste fractions derived from a typical dumpsite remediation project in India. The emphasis is on minimizing environmental and health hazards by strategically addressing legacy waste. Policymakers in India have prioritized the implementation of such frameworks to ensure sustainable waste management practices. Furthermore, the chapter introduces a comprehensive framework for assessing the economic feasibility of landfill mining. This assessment is grounded in a thorough cost-benefit analysis, providing a structured approach to evaluate the financial viability of extracting resources from landfills. By presenting this framework, the chapter aims to contribute to informed decision-making processes, assisting authorities in making economically sound choices when considering landfill mining initiatives. Overall, the chapter underscores the importance of adopting strategic measures and economic assessments to tackle the pressing challenges associated with solid waste management in India and beyond.