Setting priorities to achieve Sustainable Development Goals through appropriate waste management systems in Uganda

Abstract

Developing countries suffer poor solid waste management (SWM) systems. and setting priorities to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is urgent. The current research aims to assess Ugandan SWM system, and the main circular strategies implemented in the last decade to identify actions that should be prioritised towards a sustainable development. Low collection rates, unsound waste disposal, and poverty-driven recycling are the common issues that threaten the achievement of SDGs in Uganda. Waste collection improvement and construction of controlled sanitary landfills must be prioritised to reduce environmental contamination and avoid the generation of unsafe work for informal workers. End child labour, ensuring access to affordable and clean energy sources, and valorising local entrepreneurship in waste recycling are also fundamental actions to achieve an effective and inclusive SWM system. This review contributes to identify the priorities to start circular actions now, supporting decision makers in implementing policies and innovative solutions to assist the transition towards sustainable SWM systems in Uganda and the Global South.