Resource-conserving traditions and waste disposal: The garbage farms and sewage-fed fisheries of Calcutta

Abstract

In spite of its many waste disposal problems Calcutta is foremost among South Asian cities in the productive use of wastes. Natural processes and informal practices on the metropolitan fringe contribute significantly to waste treatment and promote recycling. The disposal/recycling system that has developed over a century operates with a minimum of technology and engineering. The nineteenth century origins of the garbage farms and sewagefed fisheries are sketched and the importance of the use of sewage and garbage in food production is assessed. The effects of encroaching urbanisation on the wetlands are noted. The paper argues the need for research and discussion of development alternatives for Asian metropolitan fringe areas.