Waste Management Issues Research Articles

Nutritional Evaluation of Peanut Chikki Incorporated with Amla Pomace Powder

Amla processing generates a significant amount of amla residue, known as amla pomace, which is a valuable byproduct. Amla pomace is rich in nutrients and can be utilized as a raw material for further processing and value addition. In this study, peanut chikki was developed by adding amla pomace powder as a functional ingredient at different levels (2%, 4%, and 6%) along with peanuts, and compared with a control sample. The chikki with 6% amla pomace (T3) had the highest overall acceptability score (7.85) compared to other variations. The nutrient composition of the most preferred chikki included protein (10.2g), fat (15.6g), dietary fiber (6.5g), carbohydrates (50g), and 26 mg/100g of ascorbic acid. Storage studies showed an increase in moisture, and peroxide value, a decrease in sensory scores and ascorbic acid content over time. However, the microbiological load remained within acceptable limits. This study demonstrates that amla pomace powder can be successfully incorporated into peanut chikki, providing nutritional and health benefits while addressing waste management issues.

Comprehensive Assessment of the Use of the Territory of Olkhon Island (Baikal National Park)

Olkhon Island is a business card of the Irkutsk region and one of the most visited sites. Being a source of attraction for tourists, the island began to demand social development of the territory both in terms of individual and collective development, as well as in terms of housing and communal services and road infrastructure. In this regard, a comprehensive assessment of the use of the territory as an object of attraction for an increasing number of people, both for recreation and permanent residence, is required. The article presents an ecological and socio-economic assessment of the use of the territory of Olkhon Island, which is part of the Baikal National Park. The data on the current state, development and capacity of the island's road network are presented. The assessment of the recreational impact on the most popular tourist route of the Baikal National Park “North of Olkhon Island” was carried out. The issues of waste management, both in settlements and on tourist routes, are considered. The problem of cattle grazing on steppe landscapes is considered and analyzed. According to the results of the study, the proportion of anthropogenic impact on the ecosystems of Olkhon Island was determined, the main risks in the complex development of the island's territory were identified and recommendations were given to reduce the impact on the territory

Influence of Structural Discontinuity on Slope Stability using Numerical Modelling and Sirovision

The rock mass consists of heterogeneous and anisotropic materials, with smaller and larger blocks of rock, and the presence of structural discontinuities is a significant concern. Characterising the rock mass is crucial for the success of engineering excavations in such areas. A detailed study of joints, their orientation, and discontinuities in the exposed rock mass is crucial as they greatly influence stability and fragmentation. Existing rock mass classifications like Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Q-classification require various geological parameters and physico-mechanical properties of the rock. However, determining these parameters conventionally can be time-consuming, requiring careful on-site measurements. The number of opencast coal mines is increasing compared to underground mines due to shorter gestation periods, higher productivity, and quicker returns. However, opencast mining raises environmental concerns such as air and water pollution, solid waste management, land degradation, and socio-economic issues. Additionally, many opencast coal mines, regardless of size, are reaching greater depths, making analysing bench slopes and ultimate pit slope design crucial. Slope failure in these mines leads to production loss, additional costs for recovery and handling of failed material, pit dewatering, sometimes mine abandonment or premature closure, and loss of life. A study was conducted at Prakash Khani Opencast Mine – IV, Manuguru area, M/s The Singereni Company Collieries Limited (SCCL), to investigate the influence of structural discontinuities on slope stability. SIROVISION software was used to assess rock mass characterisation, while PLAXIS-2D software was employed to analyse the influence of structural discontinuities on slope stability. A comparative conclusion was drawn based on the results obtained from SIROVISION and PLAXIS-2D analyses. The study revealed that the RMR of the mine ranged from very poor to fair due to numerous discontinuities. It was also found that discontinuities in the slope decrease the Factor of Safety (FOS), indicating an impact on slope stability.

Plastic Waste (In)Visibility in Plasticity

This article examines the video game Plasticity as a compelling narrative medium that represents and critiques the ecological ramifications of plastic consumption in the Anthropocene era. The game’s dystopian setting, where players navigate through environments devastated by plastic waste, serves as a metaphor for the real-world issues of waste management and environmental neglect. By integrating theories from material ecocriticism and close gaming methodologies, this paper analyses Plasticity both as a piece of eco-fiction and as an interactive experience that challenges players to reflect on their own consumption habits. The game’s design and player agency are highlighted as tools that expose the often invisible consequences of waste disposal practices. I argue that Plasticity utilizes the concept of Chthulucene aesthetics, which I define as an approach that embraces ecological entanglement and multispecies perspectives, challenging traditional views of beauty by finding harmony in environmental disturbances and the interconnectedness of all life forms, to illuminate the strategic invisibility of plastic waste. The analysis reveals the game’s potential to open a space for interpretation of what remains in the dark by practices dictated as normal in terms of plastic waste disposal practices in the Anthropocene.

GENERATION OF ELECTRICITY FROM WASTE PAPERS AND PLASTIC

A waste-to-energy plant effectively addresses the dual challenges of waste management and energy production by converting waste materials, such as plastics and paper, into electricity. This project particularly targets the issue of waste management in Nigerian cities, where waste plastics pose significant environmental and health risks. Through the incineration of these materials, not only is waste volume drastically reduced by approximately 80-95%, but the process also generates a considerable amount of electricity. Employing a “Zaar box” for combustion, the heat generated converts water into steam, driving a turbine to produce electricity. This electricity is then stored in batteries for various uses, such as lighting bulbs, showcasing a live demonstration of energy production from waste. The study supports its viability with a detailed analysis of the energy potential of waste plastics, suggesting significant contributions to Nigeria’s energy supply and offering a sustainable solution to both waste surplus and power shortages The waste-to-energy project in Raj Shahi City utilizes everyday waste materials, such as plastics and paper, to generate electricity. The city produces approximately 3083 kg of waste daily, which is incinerated to produce around 12 MW of power, effectively reducing the frequency of load shedding in the area. This method not only provides a reliable source of energy but also significantly diminishes the volume of waste, reducing the need for landfill space by 80-95%. Keywords: 1)Waste materials, 2)Generate Electricity, 3)Heating penal, 3)Zaar box, 4)Bulb glowing.

Investigation of Unsaturated Soil Hydraulic Properties for Subgrade Improvement using Marble Dust Waste

Introduction The distribution of suction, which has implications for seepage and shear strength, plays a crucial role in determining the stability of unsaturated soil. The Air Entry Value (AEV) and Residual Water Contents (RWC) change over time to create the Soil-Water Characteristic Curve (SWCC), which is very important for figuring out how the suction is distributed. During a flood occurrence, the subgrade becomes inundated with water, leading to adverse effects on the AEV and RWC of the subgrade. Consequently, the performance of the subgrade is diminished. This study focuses on the use of Marble Dust Waste (MDW) as an addition to the subgrade to improve the strength of the subgrade. Aims This study aims to investigate the variations in air AEV in relation to the optimal MDW in unsaturated soil found in Malaysia. Methods The study uses control samples and soil that has been mixed with different amounts of MDW: 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%. The SWCC is generated using the pressure plate extractor device. Results The results indicate a significant increase in the AEV for the mixed soil sample when compared to the control sample. While the soil-MDW mixture containing 5% of this material has an AEV value of 23 kPa, the control sample's value is 10 kPa. Conclusion The findings of the study suggest that the utilization of MDW yields a beneficial influence on the AEV, hence potentially improving the performance of the subgrade. The researchers aim to evaluate the potentially dangerous waste and convert it into a substance that is appropriate for engineering applications. This study provides empirical evidence that aligns with the objectives outlined in Chapter 8 of the 12th Malaysia Plan for the period 2021–2025. The topic under discussion pertains to environmental sustainability, specifically focusing on enhancing the ability to withstand the adverse effects of climate change and disasters, as well as the Green Technology Master Plan Malaysia 2017–2030, with a specific emphasis on Chapter 6, which addresses the issue of waste management.

Implementation Of Regulation Number 02 Of 2011 Concerning Waste Management In Bengkulu City

Other waste management issues stem from the lack of a professional waste management system planning. The waste management sector has not yet received priority compared to other sectors in urban development. This research utilizes a qualitative approach. In this study, to determine the implementation of the Bengkulu City Regional Regulation Number 02 of 2011 Regarding Waste Management in Bengkulu City based on the opinions expressed by Nugroho and the modified results between the Bengkulu City Regional Regulation Number 02 of 2011 Regarding Waste Management. Regarding the policy socialization aspect, it is noted that the socialization of regional regulations to the community is still uneven. Furthermore, for the socialization related to waste separation, similar responses were received. This is proven by organic waste still being seen in inorganic waste bins. In terms of planning, the provision of waste bins in public and social facilities is still unavailable in some facilities. Furthermore, regarding waste management financing, there are various tariff rates. For waste management conducted by LPM or third parties, the tariff is determined through mutual agreement. Meanwhile, waste management by the Department will be subject to agreed-upon fees. In terms of implementation, for supervision and oversight, researchers can conclude that the people of Bengkulu City feel the supervision being carried out. In terms of evaluation, the application of sanctions and criminal provisions received various responses. Some members of the community disagree with the rules, while others agree, in order to instill a deterrent effect and raise awareness to dispose of waste properly. Furthermore, waste management by LPM and the Department can be concluded to still not be fully operational, as evidenced by increasing piles of waste before the transportation process.

Transforming sugarcane bagasse into zeolitic material: a sustainable approach to wastewater treatment

Sugarcane bagasse, an abundant agricultural byproduct rich in silicates and cellulose, continues to be underutilized, making a significant contribution to the ever-growing global solid waste predicament. This study delves into the intricate process of producing and enhancing zeolite material derived from economically viable sugarcane bagasse by employing hydrothermal treatment. It meticulously explores four pivotal process variables: particle size (90-200 µm), reagent (0.5 M NaOH+1.5 M NaCl) ratio (0.5-1), contact time (40-72 hr), and temperature (70-100oC), by utilizing 24 full factorial design to optimize synthesis conditions. The investigation carefully delineates the nuanced impacts of these variables on the resulting zeolite porosity. After 16 experimental runs, the study identified the optimal synthesis conditions as follows: a particle size of 90 µm, a reagent ratio of 1, a contact time of 72 hr, and a temperature of 100oC. The fit statistics that signified the adequacy and significance of the developed model are R² = 0.9965, Adjusted R² = 0.9827, Predicted R² = 0.9018; Adeq Precision = 26.6195; Std. Dev. = 1.69 and C.V = 2.72%. Furthermore, the synthesized zeolite exhibited potentially a heightened adsorption capability due to its amplified porosity. This opens up promising avenues for wastewater treatment, offering effective solutions to a myriad of environmental concerns. This approach not only addresses the pressing issue of waste management but also underscores the potential of transforming waste into valuable resources for sustainable development.

The role of the waste sector in the sustainable development goals and the IPCC assessment reports

The management of waste plays a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations through both direct and indirect linkages. Directly, waste management issues are addressed in four SDGs (6, 11, 12, 14), while landfilling issues are only mentioned in SDG 6 reflecting water quality in connection with waste dumping. However, inadequate management and disposal of waste pose environmental, health and safety risks; thereby undermining more SDGs. Indirectly, waste management and landfilling influence various SDGs ranging from 4 to all 17 SDGs depending on the literature reference.Although not directly addressed in SDG 13 (Climate action), the waste sector contributes to climate change, with the biggest share of greenhouse gases emitted from landfills and waste dumps. According to the latest assessment report by the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), waste management—and thereby mainly landfills—are responsible for 64 Mt of CH4 per year worldwide.A waste-related assessment of the IPCC report series from 1990 to 2023 revealed a paradigm shift in the covered waste management strategies, transitioning from conventional technical disposal methods towards holistic approaches that align with the principles of sustainability encapsulated in the SDGs. The focus in the reports moves upwards the “waste management hierarchy”, fostering circular economy. Indirectly, this leads to seemingly less focus on landfills and waste dumps despite their high share of greenhouse gas emissions and particularly their strong representation in low/lower middle-income countries, which is still expected to increase during the next years.

Delamination Techniques of Waste Solar Panels: A Review

Solar panels are an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels; however, their useful life is limited to approximately 25 years, after which they become a waste management issue. Proper management and recycling of end-of-life (EOL) solar panels are paramount. It protects the environment because of the high energy consumption of silicon production. We can effectively decrease energy and cost requirements by recovering silicon from recycled solar panels. This is one-third of those needed for manufacturing silicon directly. Moreover, solar panels include heavy metals, such as lead, tin, and cadmium, which pose risks to human health and the environment. Empirical evidence suggests that the costs of mining materials can exceed those of recycled materials, thereby making recycling a more cost-effective means of resource harvesting. This review paper focuses on the techniques developed to delaminate solar panels, which are considered a crucial step in the recycling of EOL solar panels. Initially, various classifications of solar panels are given. Subsequently, an analysis of the diverse methods of solar panel delamination and their efficacy in the retrieval of valued materials is presented. This investigation has identified three primary modes of delamination, namely mechanical, thermal, and chemical. Among these, mechanical delamination is deemed to be a sustainable and cost-effective option when compared to thermal and chemical delamination. The current most popular method of thermal delamination is characterized by its high energy consumption and potential emission, and the chemical delamination generates hazardous liquids that pose their own threat to the environment. This study emphasizes the mechanical delamination techniques, characterized by their environmentally friendly nature, minimal ecological footprint, and capacity to retrieve entire glass panels intact. This paper also discusses the current gaps and potential enhancements for mechanical delamination techniques. For example, some delamination techniques result in crushed materials. Thus, the handling and recovery of materials such as glass and silicon cells require the implementation of an appropriate sorting technique. Also, the value obtained from recovering crushed materials is lower than that of intact glass and silicon cells.

Pyrolysis-derived waste polypropylene oils in gas turbine engines: a comprehensive performance and emission study

Addressing the burgeoning issue of polymer waste management and disposal, chemical recycling, specifically the production of highquality oil, presents an enticing solution. This research paper delves into the process of plastic waste pyrolysis, focusing on polypropylene, and thoroughly examines the physico-chemical properties of the resulting pyrolytic oil. The oils, obtained from waste plastic pyrolysis (referred to as WPPO), are then blended with kerosene and utilized as fuel for a gas turbine engine. The primary objective of this investigation is to ascertain how the blend composition influences the performance and emission parameters of the micro gas turbine. In our findings, it was observed that all tested waste plastic pyrolysis blends displayed a trend towards escalating regulated emissions such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) with an average increase of 26% for polypropylene pyrolysis oil (PPO). The emission index (EI) for carbon monoxide (CO) was found to be relatively consistent across all fuel blends tested in this study. Interestingly, when considering the thrust specific fuel consumption (TSFC) within the EI calculation, blends of aviation kerosene and plastic oil showed lower values in comparison to the pure Jet A-1 fuel. Furthermore, an augmentation in the proportion of WPPO in the blends consequently led to an elevation in the exhaust gas temperature (an average increase of 8.7% for PPO). Interestingly, the fuel efficiency of the Jet engine, expressed as TSFC, demonstrated a decrease, with an average reduction of 13.8% observed for PPO.

Socio-cultural dynamics in community support in post-consumtion plastik waste management: a case study of DKI Jakarta region

Introduction: Population growth in urban areas, fuelled by migration from rural areas, has changed lifestyles and socio-cultural dynamics. The dynamic lifestyle of urban communities changes consumption behaviour so that people prefer practical and economical products. There are fundamental issues that arise in the waste management system in Indonesia, including limited waste management capacity in the regions, inadequate infrastructure, implementation of regulations, and lack of public awareness including the consumer goods manufacturing industry on post-consumption waste management issues. This study aims to understand the perception and level of community participation as well as the role of the informal sector in post-consumption plastic waste management, with a focus on the implementation of the extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme. Methods: Data was collected through a questionnaire survey and literature study in five areas of DKI Jakarta. Through the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), the manufacturing industry is encouraged to contribute to the management of plastic packaging waste produced. This research uses quantitative and qualitative methods with data analysis using descriptive statistics. Finding: The results show that the community supports EPR-related regulations and is ready to participate in plastic waste management schemes. This positive perception reflects changes in socio-cultural values that prioritise environmental concerns. The informal sector also makes an important contribution to plastic waste reduction, especially through collection, distribution, and processing activities in stalls and waste banks. Community support and the role of the informal sector in plastic waste management reflect changes in social attitudes and behaviours that are increasingly concerned about the environment. Conclusion: Therefore, active involvement in plastic waste reduction initiatives also reflects a cultural change that is increasingly integrated in urban communities.

The role of women in enhancing economic standards in rural areas through the implementation of waste reform in Desa Cemagi

Cemagi Village faces challenges in its human resources sector, which are not yet prepared to compete in the tourism industry, and waste management, which is deemed highly risky. In response to waste management issues, the Cemagi Village Perbekel has initiated the establishment of the Sarwa Metu Wangi TPS3R to oversee waste management and has appointed cadres to manage waste banks in each Banjar neighborhood. To address these issues, a pilot project was launched for women's empowerment activities in Cemagi Village, specifically in Banjar Sangiangan. These service activities aim to empower women in Cemagi Village by encouraging women's groups to actively sort waste, generate additional income from the sale of segregated waste, increase public awareness of the importance of proper waste management for environmental cleanliness and public health, and support tourism village development through the application of the Sapta Pesona principles. The method of implementing these activities involves conducting waste management awareness campaigns and providing assistance in waste sorting at residents' homes. The results of these activities indicate that the community has begun to actively sort waste in accordance with guidance provided by the implementation team during assistance. This is evident from the initial condition of waste deposits at the onset of waste bank activities, which were predominantly mixed or improperly sorted. However, after providing assistance at residents' homes, the waste brought to the waste bank has begun to be properly sorted. Changes in people's waste sorting behavior serve as an indicator of the success of awareness campaigns and mentoring efforts, reflecting an increase in public awareness regarding the importance of proper waste sorting for environmental protection.

Laboratory Experiments on Remediation of Landfill Leachate Contamination with Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs) of Reactive Media Derived from Waste

Groundwater at landfills is often contaminated with heavy metals. Permeable reactive barrier (PRB), a potential in-situ treatment system, was investigated in this study, using 'composite reactive media' (COM), primarily composed of waste materials, to remediate heavy metals in groundwater. The COM consisted of 40% Brick and Mortar Waste (BMW), 40% Biochar (BC), 10% Granular Activated Carbon (GAC), and 10% Zeolite, based on volume. In an up-flow column, the average removal efficiencies of Fe, Pb, Cu, As, Mn, Zn, and Cd were 70.9±2.7, 80.9±3.2, 72.2±1 .6, 76.3±2.5, 81.6±6.3, 88.0±2.0, and 67.3±4.6%, respectively. In a bench-scale COM-filled PRB (0.85 x 0.25 x 0.3 m), the average removal efficiencies of the same species were 71.4±1.3, 75.4±4.9, 67.4±4.3, 72.9±1.3, 83.6±7.6, 89.8±7.4, and 80.9±7.1%, respectively. Adsorption associated with fixation, and ion exchange could be the main treatment mechanisms. COM also has potential as a filtration medium in other treatment unit processes and to treat some other types of wastewater than landfill-leachate. Further, this use of COM could alleviate the burden of disposing of BMW waste, thereby addressing a significant issue in waste management. As the identification of potential failure points in reactive media is crucial, field-scale experiments are suggested to be conducted for further investigation.

Determination of thermomechanical properties in recycled PLA filaments for 3D printers

In recent times, the issue of plastic recycling has become one of the leading issues of environmental protection and waste management. Polymer materials are found applied in many areas of daily life and industry. Along with their extended use, the problem of plastic waste appeared because, after withdrawal from use, they became persistent and noxious wastes. The possibility of reusing polymeric materials enables waste utilization to obtain consumable products. The 3D printing market is a well-growing sector. Printable filaments can be made from various thermoplastic materials, including those from recycling. This paper studies the thermal-mechanical properties of recycled polylactic acid (PLA) material filaments obtained from 3D-printed specimens. The analysis was first with the virgin filament (PLA N) and, subsequently, two recycling cycles (PLA 1 and PLA 2). There were thermal properties evaluations for the three processing types, as follows: differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and tensile test for both specimens and filaments. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) remained at their typical values. The same happened with the melting temperature (Tm). In the TGA, the PLA thermal stability remained constant. The FTIR presented the functional groups unaltered for the recycled samples. In the second filament recycling, the tensile strength decreased by 26%, and the maximum strain was 40%, compared to PLA N. The same occurred to PLA 2 specimens; the maximum stress and strain decreased by 45% and 31%, respectively. In terms of crystallinity, this presented a variation of 86% of the virgin material for the second recycling cycle, which correlated to tensile strength shows a weakness in the PLA recycled structure, decreasing the strain until the fracture and the tensile strength.

Barriers to municipal solid waste management policy implementation. A case study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

ABSTRACT While literature extensively examines waste management issues in urban areas, limited attention has been given to rural developing waste contexts. This paper aims to understand the policy/implementation nexus between national and local government within the rural waste management context in two rural municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The research utilizes a directed deductive content analysis applying a framework proposed by Pollans. Originally designed for urban contexts, this framework has proven valuable for comprehending solid waste management policy implementation challenges in rural settings. This paper proposes an adjustment to this framework, differentiating the disposal mode of governing into government-based and self-reliant-based approaches. The authors found a significant implementation gap in both municipalities, characterized by a predominant, incremental disposal-oriented governing mode. This contrasts with the visionary and aspirational modes of governing promoted by the national government, focusing on diversion and eco-efficient waste strategies. These divergent modes of governing influence current waste management practices, especially in rural municipalities. We recommend strategies towards narrowing the implementation gap by formulating policies tailored to local development needs. Finally, the research sheds light on the challenges and disparities in rural waste management policy implementation and provides insights into how rural areas can transition towards sustainable waste management practices.

Identification of Illegal Dumping and Community Views in Informal Settlements, Cape Town: South Africa

Municipalities face the greatest difficulty in implementing an efficient and effective waste collection system, especially in informal settlements with limited spatial planning. Illegal dumping is exacerbated by the proliferation of informal settlements and the lack of adequate waste management services provided by municipalities. A geographic information system (GIS) provides decision makers with a framework for analyzing and simulating a wide variety of spatial problems, including waste management issues. The purpose of this study is to map areas susceptible to illegal dumping and to determine why the community dumps there. The data were collected qualitatively via a questionnaire using a purposeful sampling technique, and SPSS 28.0 was used to analyze the data. The accessibility of streets and the availability of vacant land affected the location and concentration of illegal dumping in the test area. The lands within a buffer zone of 250 to 500 m of populated areas are the most vulnerable. The majority of residents have individual garbage receptacles, while a minority of 43.18% do not. A total of 52 dumpsites were identified inside the red zone of the model, suggesting a strong likelihood of illegal dumping activities. Hence, the community continues to have difficulties in effectively managing garbage disposal, compelling them to resort to alternative methods of waste disposal.

Penanganan Sampah Plastik Di Desa Medan Krio Menjadi Barang Berguna Siap Pakai Kab.Deli Serdang

One non-organic waste that is used extensively in daily life is plastic, particularly for food packaging vendors and as a raw material for toy manufacturers. Waste will result from the vast amount of plastic that residents of Medan Krio use and discard after consumption. The goal of the research program's implementation is to enable locals to recycle waste materials to create valuable products. The village of Medan Krio Village has a high population density, which has led to the development of waste management issues. The village has traditionally disposed of waste by burning it and throwing it beside the street, which is why there is a garbage stench. which has a strong odor as a result of careless trash dumping. In light of this issue, Ecobricks may offer a way to lessen plastic waste and turn it into products with a positive economic impact. Method: PAR (Participatory Action Research), which is study that identifies issues and then offers potential solutions. Findings: The Ecobrick technique is being used in Medan Krio Village to make use of plastic waste. A recycling technique known as "ecobricks" uses plastic bottles that have been packed full of non-organic materials until they are extremely hard and dense.

Investigating waste in the ambit of environmental sociology in Bhubaneswar, India

ABSTRACT Rapid urbanization brings along with it an array of challenges including housing issues, traffic congestion, proliferation of slums, water and sanitation issues, poor air quality, increased crimes, unemployment and problems of waste management. Water and air pollution due to improper disposal of solid waste poses significant threat to urban health and thereby resulting in poor living conditions. Solid waste has been studied extensively by natural scientists, ecologists, and conservation scientists. However, the study makes an attempt to analyze the sociological aspects of solid waste in urban space. With the help of the theoretical lens of political-ecology and actor-network theories, the current study uncovers the linkages, conflicts, and power relations between political, and social components of the solid waste management issues in the Indian city of Bhubaneswar. Resorting to mixed method and obtaining relevant date through survey, semi-structured interview schedule, and ethnography, the study locates power relations between caste, class, and gender groups, resulting in ‘urban metabolism.’ Waste has also become hybrid due to heterogeneity, relationalities, multiplicities, and framing. The study suggests that recognizing and empowering underrepresented actors can actively shape and meaningfully reorient waste discourse in Bhubaneswar.

Cellulose fibers as a trendsetter for the circular economy that we urgently need

Picking up a discarded can or bottle and placing it in a recycling bin may seem like a very small step to take in the direction of making a better world. The scope of benefits that might accrue, by combining many such steps, and making careful plans, was highlighted in a recent Waste to Advanced Resources Matter (WARM) workshop hosted at this university. As shown during the discussions at the workshop, those who are deeply involved with issues of waste management, climate change issues, and care for our planet already know the “broad brush” answers regarding what needs to be done. Now is the time for action in implementing efficient and widespread recovery of valuable materials and energy from what we presently throw away.