Waste Management Practices Research Articles

A Study on Recycling Waste Materials in Construction Industry

The development of the construction industry has been greatly increasing over these decades. The high construction number produces several issues including waste. Waste materials in the construction industry have been one of the concerns due to high generation and most of them ended up in landfill. However, it is believed that these waste materials are recyclable. It is also adequate to be used in the construction industry for environmental sustainability as well as to reduce dependence on natural resources. Therefore, the primary objective of this research is to identify practices applied in the construction industry in recycling waste materials. Moreover, this study also serves the purpose to analyse the advantages and disadvantages of the common practices applied in recycling waste materials. Last but not least, it is expected as well throughout this study, that a recommendation may be made based on the effectiveness of recycling. To test the theories, an online questionnaire survey was conducted with 66 respondents from experts in the construction industry. The collected data further will be analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0 software. From the results, the majority of the construction industry companies in Malaysia are aware of the waste management issue and practice waste materials recycling. The most recycled wastes are paper, cardboard, timber, and metal while the least recycled wastes are glass and asphalt due to their difficulties. Some of the waste categories are recycled by direct reuse methods such as timber and cardboard. Moreover, there is still room to improve the effectiveness of the current recycling system specifically in terms of operational cost. The current recycling system is beneficial in terms of resources, economic, and natural resource dependencies. Furthermore, the quality and reliability of the recycled products still need further improvement to be used as the main materials in the construction industry.

Quantification of construction and demolition waste disposal behaviors during COVID-19 using satellite imagery

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted conventional municipal solid waste (MSW) management practices and affected waste generation rates. While MSW streams have been extensively studied and reported, the impact on construction and demolition (C&D) waste remains overlooked. This research develops an innovative analytical framework utilizing satellite imagery to quantify C&D waste disposal rates during COVID-19 restrictions in a mid-sized Canadian city. Supervised classification of Landsat-8 images is conducted to derive the settlement area over a period of 8.8 years (2014–2022). The C&D disposal rates and settlement area relationship is evaluated using regression analysis. Results reveal a 73.4% reduction in mean weekly C&D disposal in 2020 compared to pre-pandemic years, reflecting diminished construction activity. The settlement area exhibits a strong positive correlation (R2 = 0.812) with per capita C&D disposal rate, providing spatial evidence of urbanization patterns affecting C&D waste generation. Among socioeconomic factors examined, the value of building permits issued most influences C&D quantities (R2 = 0.934). The satellite imagery-based approach allows indirect estimation of disrupted C&D waste streams when on-site auditing is restricted during pandemics. The framework offers municipal authorities spatial decision support to formulate data-driven C&D waste management policies that are essential to smart cities and resilient to future public health emergencies.

Empowering informal plastic recyclers: addressing socio-economic challenges and human rights awareness in Ogun State, Nigeria

This study critically examines the informal recycling sector within selected plastic waste recycling factories in Ogun State, Nigeria, focusing on the compliance of human rights for workers. The research delves into the intricate dynamics of informal recycling, shedding light on the experiences and challenges faced by workers in this sector. Through a comprehensive analysis, the study investigates the intersection of environmental sustainability, labor conditions, and human rights, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the informal recycling landscape. Employing descriptive and cross-sectional approaches, including closed-ended surveys to explores the socio-economic characteristics of workers, prevailing working conditions, and the extent to which human rights standards are adhered to within these recycling facilities. The findings aim to contribute to the discourse on sustainable waste management practices, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that ensures both environmental conservation and the protection of workers' rights. This study holds significance for policymakers, environmentalists, and human rights advocates, providing insights that can inform the development of policies fostering a socially responsible and sustainable plastic waste recycling industry.

Unravelling the Environmental Challenges: a State-of-the-Art Review of the Legal Framework of Solid Waste Management in Metropolitan Cities of India

Abstract This article provides insights into the challenges and current state of solid waste management in metropolitan cities of India. It emphasizes the importance of legal regulations in ensuring effective waste management to address environmental concerns. This research highlights the need for coordinated efforts among public authorities, adopting technologically advanced best practices globally, and incorporating Waste Hierarchy and Circular Economy concepts for efficient waste management. By addressing challenges like poor community engagement, understaffing, and political interference, the article underscores the significance of robust legal frameworks and strategic policies to mitigate environmental impacts and improve waste management practices in metropolitan cities. Recommendations include enhancing transparency in environmental information, establishing sustainable waste management systems, improving legislation, and promoting stakeholder engagement.

The food industry supply chain: Synergy of environmental orientation and collaboration in implementing circularity

AbstractCircularity within supply chains can be realized through the seamless integration of ecological concerns into business strategies, coupled with stakeholder collaboration throughout the supply chain. A study of a supply chain aiming for circularity was conducted in a real setting for a renowned multinational company in the food processing industry to explore how environmental orientation shapes collaborative practices. The model was applied to reveal the significance of the circular practices that supply chain members follow within the case company. The interpretive ranking process (IRP) was further applied to rank the stakeholders in the supply chain of this company. Results reveal that raw material suppliers, farmers, customers, and volunteers occupy a significant position in implementing circularity in this supply chain. It is essential to provide incentives to suppliers in order to encourage them to adopt practices that promote circular supply chains. Simultaneously, local communities need to play an active role in implementing effective waste management practices. This case study underscores the critical imperative of nurturing a pro‐environmental mindset while fostering synergetic collaboration among stakeholders, thereby paving the path towards achieving circularity.

Kinetic and thermodynamic analysis of the PET-date seed mixture co-pyrolysis using Coats-Redfern method

This study focuses on improving the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) pyrolysis outcome by incorporating date pits in a balanced 50–50 mixture. The effect of date pit addition on the co-pyrolytic process is determined via thermal analysis using the Coats-Redfern method, which provides an estimation of the activation energy and the pre-exponential factor of the PET-Date mixture. The results demonstrate that the majority of the reaction mechanisms exhibit enhanced performance for the modified mixture, requiring 70 % less reaction energy on average. Hence, a positive effect is observed on the PET pyrolysis, thus highlighting its potential for biomass incorporation. This study provides valuable insights into optimising the co-pyrolytic processes for sustainable waste management and resource utilization practices.

Strategies for Household Waste Management in Winong Village Waste Bank

Background: Legal frameworks are vital for guiding village autonomy and waste management practices. Specific Background: In Indonesia, laws such as Law No. 6/2014 and Law No. 18/2008 regulate these areas but face implementation challenges. Knowledge Gap: There is a lack of integration between community perspectives and local governance practices. Aims: This study analyzes the legal foundations of waste management in rural settings and assesses practical implementation through stakeholder input. Results: Using a normative legal approach alongside Focus Group Discussions with various stakeholders, the research identifies gaps in the application of waste management laws and emphasizes the need for tailored legal recommendations. Novelty: By merging legal analysis with empirical insights, the study provides a comprehensive view of waste management in rural contexts. Implications: Findings highlight the necessity for adapting legal frameworks to local systems and engaging communities, offering practical solutions for rural waste management that contribute to environmental governance. Highlights : Legal Foundations: Examines laws governing waste management and village autonomy. Stakeholder Input: Utilizes Focus Group Discussions to gather community perspectives. Contextual Adaptation: Emphasizes the need for tailored legal solutions for effective implementation. Keywords: legal frameworks, waste management, village governance, community engagement, empirical analysis

Enhancing leachate management with antibacterial nanocomposites incorporating plant-based carbon dots and Satureja Khuzestanica essential oils

Landfill leachate, a complex mixture of pollutants, poses a significant environmental hazard. This study reports the synthesis and characterization of superabsorbent nanocomposites (SANs) designed for enhanced performance in waste management applications. SANs were prepared using carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium polyacrylate (SPA) as the main components, carbon dots (CDs) to improve absorption, and Satureja Khuzestanica essential oil (SEO) for antibacterial performance. The results demonstrated that the addition of CDs significantly increased the absorption capacity and liquid retention of the samples, with a water absorption capacity reaching up to 8621 %. Furthermore, the samples exhibited high mechanical strength, with tensile strength improving by over 100 % in the presence of CDs. The inclusion of SEO provided strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones measuring up to 26 mm. These SANs, with their high absorption capacity, mechanical robustness, and antibacterial properties, show great potential for improving waste management practices, particularly in leachate absorption strategies.

Perceptions and decision-making of dental professionals to adopting sustainable waste management behaviour: a Theory of Planned Behaviour analysis.

Background High carbon emissions associated with clinical waste disposal in dentistry pose an environmental and public health concern. Current NHS guidelines do not mandate sustainable waste management resulting in recyclable dental waste being incinerated. In the absence of such policies, decision to implement sustainable waste management practices falls upon dental professionals who rely on their own knowledge and beliefs about the environmental impact of dentistry. Literature exploring barriers to sustainable waste management by dental professionals require further insight on dental professionals' decision-making processes. Therefore, this study uses a behavioural decision-making model - the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) - to explore sustainable waste segregation behaviour of dental professionals based on their attitudes and beliefs about sustainable dentistry and climate change.Methods Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with dental professionals between October and November 2022 in dental practices in Fife, Scotland. Interviews were analysed using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic data analysis.Findings Following thematic analysis, eight themes were identified around the participants' attitudes, perceived subjective norms and perceived behavioural control, pointing at the way knowledge gaps and lack of awareness were often linked with attitudes which are associated with low intention to execute sustainable waste management.Conclusions TPB offers a useful framework to understand waste segregation behaviour of dental professionals. Further studies are required to further establish sustainable waste management behaviour.

Perceived social, economic, environmental and health effects of solid waste management practices in logia town, afar, ethiopia

Improper solid waste management in urban and semi-urban areas has led to adverse impacts on the environment, public health, and the economic well-being of communities. Therefore, this study analyzes the status of household solid waste management practices and their effects in Logia Town, Afar, Ethiopia. To achieve this objective, the study utilizes both descriptive and econometric models (binary logistic regression model). The descriptive results of the study revealed that there is general awareness of the importance of solid waste management (SWM) and its impact on the environment, economy, and human health among the respondents. Regarding respondents’ attitudes, the majority of households understand the responsibility of proper waste disposal and its impact. However, in terms of solid waste management practices, 80% of households do not properly segregate their waste, 59.3% do not separate solid waste (SW) before disposal, and 74% of households engage in improper disposal practices. About 95.9% of respondents were aware that improper waste management can lead to diseases such as diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera. Around 65% of the sampled households considered solid waste as a source of wealth, and, as a result, 56% of them reuse, recycle, and reduce waste. This indicates that solid waste has economic value for society. Regarding the environmental impact of SW, about 89% of respondents argued that SW adversely affects the environment by polluting rivers, lakes, wells, and air. This environmental impact negatively affects the well-being and economic status of the community. The binary logistic regression model found that having adequate solid waste landfills, access to door-to-door solid waste collection, knowledge of SWM rules and regulations, treating waste as a resource, and understanding the 3Rs (recycle, reuse, reduce) had positive and significant effects on the adoption of proper solid waste management practices in the study area. Therefore, to reduce undesirable effects and improve the value of SW, the relevant authorities should provide adequate solid waste landfills and door-to-door collection services, create awareness about SWM rules and regulations, and promote knowledge of the 3Rs.

Harmonizing Maqasid al-Shari’ah with sustainable waste management practices: a conceptual framework for principles and implementation

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the principles guiding sustainable waste management practices within the framework of Maqasid al-Shari’ah. The purpose is to address the environmental challenges arising from economic expansion, population growth and resource consumption, which often lead to unsustainable waste management practices and hinder economic growth. The focus is on aligning waste management principles with the ethical objectives outlined in Shari’ah. Design/methodology/approach Adopting a qualitative content analysis method and an inductive approach to outline the constituent elements that formulate the framework, this study investigates the objectives of Maqasid al-Shari’ah to identify underlying elements crucial for sustainable waste management. Findings The study reveals how the principles embedded in Maqasid al-Shari’ah provide a foundation for effective waste management practices. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating these principles into human behavior to ensure that waste management aligns with the Shari’ah viewpoint. The insights shed light on the role of Maqasid al-Shari’ah in managing waste sustainably and contributing to environmental conservation efforts. Originality/value This research contributes to the field by offering a unique perspective on waste management practices through the lens of Maqasid al-Shari’ah. The study’s originality lies in its exploration of how Islamic ethical objectives can guide sustainable waste management, providing a framework that goes beyond conventional approaches. The incorporation of a comprehensive literature review enhances the authenticity and novelty of the proposed waste management framework.

Waste Management Strategies by the Village Government

The general background waste management is a critical issue for sustainable community development, particularly in rural areas where resources are often constrained. Specific background in Wedoroklurak Village, effective waste management practices have become increasingly necessary due to rising waste production and its environmental impacts. Knowledge Gap: Although there is considerable literature on community-based waste management, there is limited research examining the specific roles of village governments in facilitating effective waste management strategies. Aims this study to analyze the roles of the village government in waste management, particularly its functions as a facilitator, mobilizer, and regulator. Results: The research findings reveal that the village government has successfully served as a facilitator by providing essential infrastructure, such as waste disposal facilities and educational resources for residents. Moreover, it has acted as a mobilizer by encouraging community participation through training programs. However, the government’s regulatory role has been inadequate, primarily relying on informal agreements rather than formal regulations. Novelty this study contributes valuable insights into the governance of waste management in rural contexts, emphasizing the need for more robust regulatory frameworks. Implications the findings suggest that strengthening regulatory measures can significantly improve waste management practices and promote sustainable environmental health in rural communities. Highlights: The government facilitates waste management through resource provision. Community education and training are essential for environmental awareness. Regulatory measures are needed for effective waste management practices. Keywords: Waste Management, Government, Community, Facilitator, Mobilizer

Municipal solid waste management in Lagos State: Expansion diffusion of awareness

This study examined the role of waste management authorities in promoting public awareness of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) through the lens of the expansion diffusion theory (EDT). EDT emphasizes the spread of new ideas and practices within a society through various communication channels and distinct individuals within each system. We employed a mixed-method approach using 116 survey responses from Lagos residents and five semi-structured in-depth interviews. Our findings reveal the need for a more structured approach to create public awareness of MSWM, considering the distinct groups of residents in Lagos and their responses to innovation and knowledge diffusion. We propose four pillars on which waste management authorities in developing countries can sustain their MSWM awareness campaigns, as well as an awareness campaign strategy flowchart. Our findings add to the expanding body of research on public awareness and participation in MSWM, emphasizing the critical role that waste management authorities can play in fostering sustainable waste management awareness and practices.

Peculiarities in household solid waste management in Nigeria: a quick review

Evidence abounds to indicate the prevalence of indiscriminate disposal of household solid waste as a practice in Nigeria. This practice contributes to green crime and jeopardizes public health. Therefore, the focal point of several academic papers has been household solid waste management. The objective of the current study was to make a rapid review on practices that scholars have recommended for household members to take proper care of their waste made of paper, cellophane, plastic, metal and wooden material and the peculiarities of these recommended practices in Nigeria with implications for waste management practices in developing countries worldwide. The study adopted the systematic review method to explore findings in the available relevant studies that were published within the years 2017 and 2023 to depict the current situations of the study’s subject matter in Nigeria. The current study sorted out these findings into themes. The review pinpointed several recommended practices such as zero-waste policy, waste minimization/reduction, and various disposal methods to manage the household solid waste and the major factors responsible for the setbacks these practices have faced. The review further highlighted gaps in existing studies which could form the basis for prospective studies on household solid waste management.

Comparative Study of Waste Management and Sampling Practices in Latvia and Estonia

Abstract The study focuses on waste management and sampling practices carried out in two large Baltic cities: Riga (Latvia) and Tartu (Estonia). Even though waste collection schemes are not at the same centralisation level in the two municipalities, certain similarities can be observed in waste collection, management and sampling processes. Governed by provisions of Council Directive 1999/31/EC of 26 April 1999 on the landfill of waste, general national waste treatment legislation, and the national waste management plans, waste management practices in Latvia and Estonia are moving towards minimalisation of waste landfilling and maximalisation of waste inclusion into various recycling practices (use in waste biodegradation cells, bioreactors, different waste recycling facilities, in developing modern waste management supporting infrastructure, etc.). Therefore, waste management in two countries can be partly characterised as a vital element of emerging circular economy activities aimed at minimising landfill deposition of waste, hence, a more effective and permanent approach to sustainable waste management problems, on the one hand, and maximising the diversified use of waste in different branches of economy, hence, larger economic and social benefits.

A Comprehensive Review of Engineering Strategies for Environmental Sustainability in Sustainable Waste Management

Waste management and environmental sustainability are intricately linked aspects crucial for maintaining ecological balance and human well-being. This study synthesizes research findings and scholarly insights to underscore the significance of effective waste management practices in achieving environmental sustainability goals. It examines waste treatment approaches, including recycling, waste-to-energy systems, and waste reduction strategies, highlighting their role in mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the study explores the environmental consequences of inadequate waste management, emphasizing the urgent need for holistic solutions to address water, soil, and air pollution. Engineering solutions for sustainable waste management, such as the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), thermal treatment methods, and landfill management, are discussed as essential components of a comprehensive strategy. By integrating these approaches, policymakers, industries, and communities can minimize waste generation, conserve resources, and safeguard the environment for current and future generations. Challenges like regulatory barriers, lack of awareness, and inadequate infrastructure pose obstacles to sustainable waste management practices. Thus, a collaborative effort involving governments, businesses, and civil society is crucial to implementing effective waste management policies and initiatives. Through concerted action, we can transition to a circular economy model that promotes resource efficiency, environmental protection, and human well-being on a global scale.

Waste Management Practices and Effect on Teaching and Learning in Public Secondary Schools in Nairobi and Kajiado Counties, Kenya

Waste Management Practices and Effect on Teaching and Learning in Public Secondary Schools in Nairobi and Kajiado Counties, Kenya

Evolution of microbial community structure during biohydrogen production process of palm oil anaerobic sludge

Anaerobic microbial communities and their functions can provide information about waste management practices, as well as reveal novel degradation metabolisms that can be utilized in wastewater treatment. This study was aimed towards sustainable palm oil industry with assessing the microbial evolution during the dark fermentative processing of palm oil anaerobic sludge and palm oil mill effluent (POME) in batch-mode over two-months with a distinct incubation time of 24 h. The process was designed using response surface methodology (RSM) by acclimatization of inoculum using POME with a chemical oxygen demand (COD) of 36 g-COD/l. The effect of mesophilic and thermophilic conditions and pH on COD removal, hydrogen content, and hydrogen yield (HY) were investigated. A potential sample was selected for microbial analysis after the first and second months of operation based on the maximum outputs achieved throughout the experiment. The bacterial community at pH 5.6 and temperature 55 ˚C with maximum hydrogen content of 64.13 %, and HY of 0.93 ml H2/g-COD was dominated by three phyla: Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidota. The results obtained from high throughput pyrosequencing showed that how acclimatization period affects the microbial community structure towards Firmicutes phylum, which includes the majority of hydrogen-producing microorganisms.

Effectiveness of NGOs in mountainous solid waste management: A case study from Healing Himalayas in Rakchham, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a critical role in addressing solid waste management (SWM) challenges in remote mountain communities, including the ecologically fragile Himalayan region. This study evaluates the impact of Healing Himalayas, an NGO, in Rakchham village, Himachal Pradesh, India. The objectives were to evaluate the effectiveness of Healing Himalayas' decentralized SWM model in promoting stakeholder engagement and resource recovery, assess the role of collaborations between local authorities and the NGO in financing waste management practices, investigate the influence of tourism and seasonal variations on solid waste generation patterns and waste management practices in Rakchham, and material recovery facilities, followed by glass (36.7%), paper/cardboard (18.4%) and metal (4.1%). A fee-based system involving the local village council funded waste operations. Waste generation exhibited significant seasonal fluctuations, with tourism influxes driving increased volumes. Healing Himalayas' initiatives promoted community participation, with over 15 awareness workshops conducted. Key challenges included limited financial resources, inadequate infrastructure, lack of advanced treatment facilities and need for context-specific solutions like efficient wet waste management in cold climates. The study highlights Healing Himalayas' decentralized model's success in fostering stakeholder engagement, behavioural change and resource recovery. The findings inform effective strategies for NGO-led waste management initiatives tailored to remote Himalayan communities.

Biomedical waste management among healthcare workers in a Primary Health Centre in Sikkim, India—A KAP study

BACKGROUND: “Biomedical waste (BMW) is the waste generated during the diagnosis, treatment or immunization of human beings or animals or research activities pertaining thereto or in the production or testing of biologicals” (Management and Handling Rules, 1998 of India). As it is a source of dangerous diseases, the handlers need to have adequate knowledge about the same. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice of biomedical waste management among healthcare workers in a Primary Health Centre and tested the association between KAP and selected variables. For this study, one PHC among six in Sikkim was purposively selected and all health providers attached with the PHC were assessed for KAP toward BMW Management. Data was summarized using SPSS version 27. Pearson’s Chi-square test (or Fisher’s exact test) was applied to find the association between KAP and selected variables (P < 0.05 was considered significant). Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed for the significant variables. RESULTS: The mean age of the study participants ranged from 36.42 ± 8.983 years. 66%, 66%, and 60% of healthcare workers had adequate knowledge scores, favorable attitude scores, and good practice scores in BMWM, respectively. CONCLUSION: A knowledge gap was observed among the supportive medical staff as there was a lack of formal training in BMWM. Training of not only medical officers but also for waste handlers should be conducted at the time of appointment as well as refresher trainings should be done for the overall health and safety of all waste handlers.