Issues and Challenges of Implementing Waste-to-Energy Practices in India

Abstract

India’s rapid development and urbanisation have led to major issues and challenges with the provision of adequate waste and energy management services. Conversion of waste-to-energy (WtE) through incineration is now an established method in developed countries for reducing waste mass and volume whilst simultaneously providing heat and power. However, the uptake of WtE technologies in developing countries has not been so successful. This study aims to identify the main issues and challenges with improving municipal solid waste (MSW) management and implementing WtE technologies in India. Specifically, we provide recommendations on actions to be taken to improve waste management and promote WtE technologies. In order to achieve this, we survey and conduct a workshop in India with over 50 participants comprising 26 government body members, 20 industry practitioners and 6 academics involved in waste management in India. Data are gathered on the social, political, technical, financial and environmental barriers to WtE and MSW management. We find that over 35 % of government body members perceive the major problem to be poor waste segregation. In comparison, industries feel that there is a lack of government support in the form of incentives and thought the ongoing challenge remains with finding a technology that can handle the characteristics of domestic waste in India. Interestingly, there seems to be minimal opposition to WtE from the public and environmentalist, which are some of the main issues in developed countries. Recommendations arising from this study are that key improvements are required in education at institutional levels, policies and regulations on the disposal and handling of MSW and financial support from central government to make plants economically viable. There is also a greater need for an increase in collaboration and communication among central and local governments, industries and communities. Further research will be conducted to gather public opinions regarding MSW management and WtE projects in India.