Identifying Critical Issues Relating to Environmental Audit of Solid Waste Management in Large Educational Institutions; A case study of Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha

Abstract

Of the entire problems related to environmental audit that have come into focus, institutional solid waste management has been the slowest to develop either in direction or regulatory mechanisms. In the absence of any specific regulatory directive, the institutions and especially the Universities have left waste management to the lower staff. There is no environmental management programme in any of the Universities in Odisha, India unlike most of the Universities abroad. This study examines the critical gaps in management through an audit of the solid waste of Ravenshaw University, Odisha. Results show that there is no framework in place for compliance of environmental laws. The top management of the University is not actively involved in directing the efforts. Even though the University generates 100.5 tons of waste per month only 37.5% of it is collected through regular municipality channels. Biodegradable waste constitute 82% of the total waste but is not used for energy recovery. There is no awareness among the students and faculty regarding sound practices. This paper attempts to provide a framework for policy and planning strategies relating to solid waste management in public and private educational institutions within the framework of Sustainable Integrated Solid Waste Management practices.