Chapter 33 - Waste management practices in the developing nations: challenges and opportunities

Abstract

One of the major environmental management challenges in today’s world is waste generation. Rapid population growth, combined with urbanization and economic development processes, has resulted in an increase in waste production in various forms. In 2012, the world generated 1.3 billion tons of waste per year, which is expected to rise to 2.2 and 3.4 billion tons per year by 2025 and 2050, respectively. The problem of waste management becomes more acute in developing countries, where waste generation outpaces population growth and economic development. For example, waste management authorities in low- and middle-income countries use 3%–15% of city funds, with approximately 90% of this budget used solely for waste collection. Despite numerous social, economic, and environmental advancements, the state of waste disposal remains unchanged. The challenges of waste collection and disposal are enormous, but so are the opportunities. Waste management practices (recycle, reuse, reduce, landfills, incineration, etc.) that are effective and efficient are critical for any nation’s development. Waste disposal’s energy-generating potential through methane extraction, reduced-derived fuel or thermal treatment are some of the key prospects in developing countries for making waste-to-energy a successful endeavor. Despite rapid population growth, an integrated waste management system with well-coordinated policies, strong financial support, and infrastructure can reduce waste-related problems. Understanding various waste generation practices, for example, can transform waste management challenges into a plethora of opportunities for reducing environmental pollution and, ultimately, securing the nation’s health and economic development. The current chapter addresses the technical and non-technical challenges that developing countries face, as well as the hidden opportunities and potential changes that can be implemented at each stage of the municipal solid waste management system.