Energy possibilities and future strategies for municipal solid waste in Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

At present municipal solid waste (MSW) has become one of the biggest national concerns because mismanagement of MSW deteriorates the purity and cleanliness of the environment. In this direction, this manuscript discusses the details of generation, characterization of MSW, and current practice of municipal solid waste management in Himachal Pradesh (HP), a state in the northern region of India. Himachal Pradesh generates approximately 342.35 tons per day (TPD). Thus, it is a massive challenge for the municipalities of HP to manage it in a hilly region. Hilly regions of HP are prone to rapid climate change i.e., rainfall and snowfall in winter and hence found to be one of the important factors that affect the collection and treatment process of waste management. Indeed, the generation of waste decisively depends upon the tourism business. Further, the tourism business also depends upon seasonal variation. Difficult terrain and socio-economic condition of local people make waste disposal and transportation more difficult for the appropriate planning of the management of municipal solid waste. The characterization studies show that the biodegradable fraction in MSW is more than 50% which indicates a significant energy potential. The manuscript covers issues and challenges in waste management due to climatic conditions in the hilly regions of HP and also recommends the best suitable remedial measures for the proper management of the existing MSW system and its appropriate treatment alternatives. Hence this manuscript provides a wholesome glimpse of the possibilities of energy, global warming potential, and the economic aspects of MSW in the regions of HP. The findings will help the stakeholders and policymakers in better decision-making.