Sustainable Waste Management Practices Research Articles

Advancing towards greener healthcare: Innovative solutions through single-use mask waste to refuse-derived fuel utilization

The healthcare sector faces increasing challenges in managing the environmental impact of single-use masks and medical waste, prompting the exploration of innovative solutions for greener healthcare. This study investigates converting single-use mask waste into Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable waste management approach. A quantitative analysis assessed the average waste generation of single-use masks in a healthcare facility over three months. The potential RDF production was estimated by calculating single-use masks' weight and calorific value. Additionally, Thermogravimetric Analysis was employed to evaluate the thermal behavior of RDF and its suitability as an alternative fuel source. The findings indicate an average monthly waste generation of 41,555 masks weighing 111.2 kg. RDF production from single-use mask waste yields a daily output of 3.706 kg, providing a promising solution to reduce medical waste. TGA analysis reveals a multi-step degradation process for RDF, with a significant mass loss between 300 and 500 °C, rendering it a viable renewable energy source. Converting single-use mask waste into RDF presents an opportunity for healthcare institutions to contribute to net-zero emission goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and embracing sustainable waste management practices.

Data-Driven Predictive Analysis and Sustainable Management of Concrete Waste in Pakistan

The construction sector of Pakistan is on a cross-growth trajectory, developing under the twin pressures of emerging infrastructure-based demands and sustainable practices that need to be inculcated urgently. This article focuses on the critical evaluation of sustainable waste management practices within the fast-developing construction industry of Pakistan, and clearly delineates a research gap in the current methodologies and use of data combined with the absence of a strategy for effective management of concrete waste. This research aims to utilize an algorithm based on machine learning that will provide accurate prediction in the generation of construction waste by harnessing the potential of real-time data for improved sustainability in the construction process. This research has identified fundamental factors leading systematically to the generation of concrete waste by creating an extensive dataset from construction firms all over Pakistan. This research study also identifies the potential concrete causes and proposed strategies towards the minimization of waste with a strong focus on the reuse and recycling of the same concrete material to enhance the adoption of sustainable practices. The prediction of the model indicates that the volumes of construction are to increase to 158 cubic meters by 2030 and 192 cubic meters by 2040. Further, it projects the increase in concrete construction waste volumes to 223 cubic meters by the year 2050 through historical wastage patterns.

Utilizing Waste Materials to Enhance Crop Production: A Review

Waste management is a crucial aspect of modern societies, encompassing various activities to ensure the safe and effective disposal of waste materials. It can be classified as hazardous waste, electronic trash (e-waste), industrial waste, and municipal solid waste (MSW). Sustainable waste management practices aim to reduce environmental impact while protecting public health. Urbanization leads to increased residential water consumption, however reusing wastewater for non-potable applications like agriculture can be cost-effective. The overall costs of delivering wastewater for agricultural reuse, including treatment, storage, and transportation, are less the total costs of safe environmental disposal alternatives. Drainage may also be a source of macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), which reduces the cost of wastewater for agricultural reuse. The adoption of these principles could lead to a 48% reduction in global greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The management of hazardous waste, including toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive materials, is also a significant concern. In order to safeguard public health and stop the spread of infectious illnesses, animal manure management is crucial. The global generation of construction and demolition waste is expected to double by 2025, with the majority generated in Asia. Sustainable waste management practices are necessary to ensure public health and the environment.

Innovative waste management approaches in LNG operations: A detailed review

As the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry continues to expand globally, the imperative to address environmental concerns and enhance sustainability within LNG operations becomes paramount. This paper conducts a comprehensive and detailed review of innovative waste management approaches within the LNG sector. Traditional waste management practices in LNG operations, including disposal and recycling, are examined, highlighting the associated challenges. The focus then shifts to innovative approaches, encompassing recycling and circular economy initiatives, advanced waste-to-energy technologies, and the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions. Case studies and examples illustrate successful implementations of innovative waste management strategies in various LNG facilities, providing insights into the environmental and operational benefits achieved. The paper explores the implications of these approaches, emphasizing reduced carbon footprints, enhanced resource efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the review delves into the barriers and challenges hindering widespread adoption, including technological, economic, and regulatory considerations. This detailed examination aims to contribute valuable insights for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers, fostering the integration of sustainable and innovative waste management practices in the ever-evolving landscape of LNG operations. Keywords: Innovative, Waste, Management, LNG operations, Review.

Environmental Care Behavior through Waste Bank (Study at Teratai Waste Bank Pondok Pucung Sub-district, Pondok Aren District, South Tangerang City)

This study investigates the effectiveness of Waste Bank Lotus in enhancing community environmental awareness in South Tangerang, Indonesia. With the escalating waste generation in tandem with population growth, waste management has emerged as a critical issue exacerbated by limited landfill capacity. The Lotus Waste Bank initiative seeks to mitigate these challenges by instilling environmental consciousness among residents. Employing descriptive research methods, including observation, interviews, questionnaires, documentation, and literature review, data were gathered from 63 participants selected through purposive sampling. The results reveal that Waste Bank Lotus has successfully raised community awareness regarding environmental issues, fostered responsible behaviors in waste, water, and energy management, and adopted eco-friendly products. Moreover, various factors, including intention, community support, personal autonomy, access to information, and favorable conditions, influence community environmental behavior. Environmental awareness through waste banks entails building awareness, motivation to act, evaluation, attempted implementation, and integration into daily routines. This research underscores the pivotal role of waste banks in promoting sustainable waste management practices and cultivating a culture of environmental stewardship within communities.

Environmental Impact Assessment of a Dumping Site: A Case Study of Kakia Dumping Site

Open dumping threatens the environment and public health by causing soil, water, and air pollution and precipitating the deterioration of the environmental balance. Therefore, sustainable waste management practices and compliance with environmental regulations are important to minimize these negative impacts. In this context, it is very important to identify the environmental damage inflicted by open dumping areas and to take measures to prevent this damage. Makkah is among the cities that still use open dumping for solid waste disposal. The rapid increase in this city’s population is generating large quantities of municipal solid waste (MSW), making it difficult to manage waste economically without harming the environment or public health. During Umrah and Hajj, the rate of MSW generation increases to an even greater degree. The sustainable management of MSW in holy cities is of great importance. This study aimed to investigate the environmental impact of the Kakia Open Dumping Site in Makkah on air quality, soil, and nearby groundwater wells. It also conducted analyses of essential elements (Ca, Mg, and Na), heavy metals (Pb, Cd, and Cr), and a metalloid (As) in leachate produced at the Kakia Open Dumpsite, enabling the development of management strategies. In addition, the correlations between the essential elements, the metalloid, and the heavy metals were also analyzed. The goal is not only to mitigate the negative effects of open dumping, but also to highlight the need to adopt sustainable management strategies for MSW in religiously significant cities like Makkah.

Direct conversion of lignin-rich black liquor to activated carbon for supercapacitor electrodes

The escalating industrialization trend underscores the imperative for sustainable waste management practices. The present investigation explores a sustainable methodology for managing the waste generated from the kraft process by directly converting it into activated carbon (BLAC) through a cost-effective hydrothermal-assisted activation method. The research involved a comparative analysis of BLAC with acid-washed black liquor lignin-derived activated carbon (ABLAC) and commercial lignin-derived activated carbon (SALAC). The analysis revealed that BLAC possesses a well-developed micro and mesoporous structure, yielding a significantly higher surface area of 2277.2 m2/g as compared to ABLAC (1260 m2/g) and SALAC (1558.4 m2/g). The presence of inherent alkali in the black liquor is the main factor influencing the surface area of the BLAC. Furthermore, it demonstrated impressive electrochemical performance, showing a specific capacitance value of 871.4 F/g at 1 A/g current density, positioning it as a formidable electrode material for supercapacitor applications. The proposed direct conversion strategy will eliminate the need for high-temperature pre‑carbonization and additional lignin extraction, reducing chemical usage and presenting a greener approach.

The Application of Microbially Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) Technology in Building Materials and its Contribution to Waste Resource Utilization

Abstract: In many countries around the world, waste generation has become an increasingly pressing issue, particularly in urban areas experiencing rapid population growth and industrialization. The volume of waste produced by human activities continues to rise, posing significant challenges to the environment, economy, and public health. Improper waste management can lead to air and water pollution, soil degradation, and the spread of diseases. Additionally, waste generation consumes substantial natural resources and energy, exacerbating resource depletion and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.To address these challenges, sustainable waste management practices are essential to reduce waste generation and promote resource recovery and recycling. In this context, the development of innovative technologies, such as Microbially Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) in building materials, offers an effective means of converting waste into valuable and sustainable applications. MICP is an environmentally friendly biogeochemical technique that employs microorganisms and chemical agents in biological processes to produce carbonate minerals, providing an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable solution to environmental and engineering challenges.Recent research indicates that waste streams can substitute for several MICP chemical components in microbial and cementitious agent growth media. MICP technology has been found not only to be effective in handling hazardous waste streams but also to be a cost-effective and sustainable solution applicable to various waste media. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into the environmental advantages and engineering applications of MICP technology, with a particular focus on the potential contributions of waste streams. It also offers guidance for researchers on identifying and overcoming challenges associated with using waste streams for MICP technology applications.

Innovate, educate, and transform: Tailoring sustainable waste handling solutions for Nepal's small populated municipalities – insights from Chandragiri municipality

The research introduces a ground-breaking approach to waste management, emphasizing innovation, education, and transformation. Using Chandragiri Municipality as a case study, the study advocates a shift from traditional to progressive waste management strategies, contributing an inventive waste framework, sustainability advocacy, and a transformative blueprint. The waste composition analysis highlights Chandragiri's representative profile, leading to a comprehensive plan addressing challenges and recommending a transition to a profitable waste treatment model, supported by relevant statistics. The data-driven approach incorporates the official data of waste Composition from Chandragiri Municipality as secondary data and incorporates the primary data from Chandragiri households, ensuring a nuanced perspective. Discussions on implementation, viability, and environmental preservation underscore the dual benefit of sustainability. The study includes a comparative analysis, monitoring, and evaluation framework, examining international relevance and collaboration, and conducting a social and environmental impact assessment. The results indicate the necessity for inventive changes in Chandragiri's waste practices, recommending separate treatment centres at the ward level and Municipal level, composting machines, and a centralized waste treatment plant. Educational reforms involve revising school curricula and awareness campaigns. The transformation's success hinges on reducing waste size, efficient treatment centre operation, and ongoing public literacy. The conclusion summarizes key findings, envisioning a future with sustainable waste management practices deeply embedded in the community fabric.

A STUDY ON QUALITY CONTROL AND WASTE MANAGEMENT PROCESS IN MODERN BREAD COMPANY

The modern bread industry faces challenges in maintaining stringent quality control standards while effectively managing waste. This study aims to explore and propose strategies to enhance quality control and waste management processes in modern bread companies, contributing to their sustainability and competitiveness. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data will be collected through surveys, interviews, and case studies from multiple modern bread companies. The research will investigate current quality control practices, waste management systems, and their associated challenges. Additionally, the study will identify industry best practices and technological innovations in quality control and waste management. The findings will inform the development of a comprehensive framework for improving quality control and waste management processes tailored to the specific needs of modern bread companies. This framework will encompass strategies for optimizing production processes, implementing advanced quality control measures, and adopting sustainable waste management practices. Moreover, the study will address the integration of digital technologies and data analytics to enhance monitoring and decision-making in quality control and waste management. The proposed framework aims to enhance product quality, reduce waste generation, and minimize environmental impact, thereby contributing to the overall sustainability and profitability of modern bread companies. The research outcomes will provide valuable insights and actionable recommendations for industry practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in the bread manufacturing sector. Keywords: Quality Control, Waste Management, Bread Industry, Sustainability, Digital Technologies, Production Optimization, Environmental Impact, Competitiveness.

Experimental and feasibility study of bio-waste valorization through pyrolysis for energy and materials production in the concept of circular economy

The pyrolysis and co-pyrolysis characteristics of large abundant bio-wastes, namely date pits (DP), peanut shells (PS), coffee grounds (CG), and tea waste (TW) were investigated in detail. The TG/DTG and pyrolysis procedures were used to examine the thermal pyrolysis behavior of these agro-wastes and their blends (50%CG/50%DP, 50%CG/50%PS, 50%DP/50%PS, 50%TW/50% DP,50%TW/50%PS and 50%CG/50% TW by weight). The characterization of these feedstock has shown their suitability for energy and material valorization. Experiments were carried out in a batch pyrolysis at a medium heating rate of 10 °C/min. The goal was to identify the best combination aiming to produce either char or hydrogen-rich gas, which can contribute to the development of the circular bio-economy. It was demonstrated that pyrolysis favored the liquid product, fluctuating from 34.31% (TW) to 50.92% (DP), while the co-pyrolysis greatly increased the gaseous product, which ranged between 42.02% (TW-DP) and 55.17% (PS-TW). The blending of CG and PS resulted in heightened reactivity, leading to an enhanced generation of H2 (34.44%). The optimal mixture was found to be CG-TW, showcasing superior performance in terms of gas quality (38.39% H2) and yield (53.74%). This outcome underscores the potential of CG and TW as a synergistic blend for efficient hydrogen-rich gas production. The FTIR findings revealed that the recovered biochars have the potential to serve as solid fuels, biofertilizers, or carbon materials. Additionally, they could be used as eco-friendly precursors for chemical and related industries. By analyzing various waste mixtures and their respective pyrolysis properties, this research aims to contribute to the development of sustainable waste management practices as well as efficient energy and material production methods.

Intelligent and sustainable waste classification model based on multi-objective beluga whale optimization and deep learning.

Resource recycling is considered necessary for sustainable development, especially in smart cities where increased urbanization and the variety of waste generated require the development of automated waste management models. The development of smart technology offers a possible alternative to traditional waste management techniques that are proving insufficient to reduce the harmful effects of trash on the environment. This paper proposes an intelligent waste classification model to enhance the classification of waste materials, focusing on the critical aspect of waste classification. The proposed model leverages the InceptionV3 deep learning architecture, augmented by multi-objective beluga whale optimization (MBWO) for hyperparameter optimization. In MBWO, sensitivity and specificity evaluation criteria are integrated linearly as the objective function to find the optimal values of the dropout period, learning rate, and batch size. A benchmark dataset, namely TrashNet is adopted to verify the proposed model's performance. By strategically integrating MBWO, the model achieves a considerable increase in accuracy and efficiency in identifying waste materials, contributing to more effective waste management strategies while encouraging sustainable waste management practices. The proposed intelligent waste classification model outperformed the state-of-the-art models with an accuracy of 97.75%, specificity of 99.55%, F1-score of 97.58%, and sensitivity of 98.88%.

Lodo do Curtimento de couro em Argamassa: Valorização Sustentável

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the valorisation of sludge from Leather Tannery Wastewater Treatment Plants (LTWWTP) by incorporating it into cement mortars. Theoretical framework: The substantial quantity of waste generated by industries coupled with the scarcity of natural resources calls for the analysis, development, and implementation of treatment methods to recover and reuse materials, thereby minimising the environmental impact of waste disposal. The leather tanning industry, a significant polluter due to its use of hazardous and heavy materials, requires sustainable solutions for waste management. One promising approach is the incorporation of waste into cementitious matrices. Method: Three scenarios were examined: low-moisture sludge, ash obtained via incineration, and wet oxidation. Test specimens were prepared with varying proportions of cement replacement (0, 3, 5, 7, and 10%), and their flexural and compressive strengths were evaluated. Additionally, chemical analyses were conducted to assess solubility. Results and Conclusion: The results indicate that sludge can be used in small proportions without compromising the mechanical strength of the mortar. Substituting 10% cement with ash using the INC-2 incineration method improved mortar quality, exhibiting a higher compressive strength of 41 MPa and minimal water absorption (3.28%). Research implications: Drawing from these promising findings, it can be confidently asserted that utilising WWTP sludge in mortar is a practical, eco-conscious solution for civil construction. Furthermore, it is a pivotal step towards addressing the challenge of hazardous sludge disposal. Originality/value: The findings from this research will contribute to sustainable waste management practices and pave the way for responsible and eco-friendly utilisation of industrial waste in cementitious materials, thus minimising environmental burdens.

To what extent do geopolitical conditions affect the environmental sustainability of the circular economy? A comparative LCA study of lactic acid production in Denmark and Iran

Transitioning to a circular economy is inevitable in well-developed and developing economies. Biowaste valorization into value-added products has shown a promising sustainable solution compared to its fossil-based counterparts. However, it has yet to be scientifically analyzed to what extent geopolitical conditions affect the environmental sustainability of the circular economy. To fill this gap, we conducted a consequential life cycle assessment of biorefining biowaste into lactic acid and bioenergy in Denmark and Iran as representative examples of developed and developing economies, respectively. Despite the notable environmental impacts associated with fossil-based energy consumption and infrastructural limitations, Iran could benefit more environmentally from the suggested biorefinery by 2030 than Denmark. This contrast arises from the fact that the existing dominant waste management solution in Iran consists of sanitized and unsanitized landfills, which appear likely to continue through 2030. Therefore, any alternative waste management scenario would help avoid the environmental impacts arising from landfills. In contrast, Denmark already has a well-established and sustainable waste management practice for biowaste, namely anaerobic digestion. Accordingly, the environmental impacts of the investigated scenarios in Denmark were, on average, 85 %, 855 %, 177 %, and 130 % higher than those in Iran regarding resource scarcity, ecosystem quality, human health, and climate change, respectively. In both countries, incineration, the culture medium, ion exchange, vacuum distillation, transportation, emissions from digestate applications on farmlands, and the inorganic waste landfilling process (only applied to IR scenarios) contributed most to the overall environmental impacts. Besides impacts arising from geopolitical conditions, our study revealed that abiotic augmentation and P. acidilactici bioaugmentation demonstrated superior environmental performance compared to other methods. The results also highlight the importance of international collaboration to implement circular economy approaches in developing countries and accelerating global environmental mitigation efforts. To comprehensively evaluate the environmental sustainability of circular bioeconomy, it is recommended to examine scenarios aligned with socio-economic pathways and various representative concentration pathways.

Assessing sustainable waste management practices in Rajshahi City Corporation: an analysis for local government enhancement using IoT, AI, and Android technology.

This study addresses the pressing challenge of inefficient waste management practices within the Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC), Bangladesh. Despite rapid urbanization and escalating waste generation rates, RCC struggles with diverse waste disposal practices, limited supervision, irregular waste collection schedules, and inadequate disposal infrastructure. In this context, this study examines the possible improvements that could be made by combining the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and Android application to improve waste management methods in the RCC. The study's foundation is a vast amount of information gathered from residents, with particular attention paid to waste disposal methods, the role of the local government, the frequency of waste collection, and public attitudes toward waste management. The results point to a complicated waste management environment with a range of waste disposal practices, little supervision, irregular waste collection, and insufficient disposal methods. The importance of RCC in waste management is emphasized, highlighting the need for proactive measures including effective monitoring, constant waste collection, and routine drain cleaning. Additionally, it is suggested that combining IoT, AI, and Android technology is a possible way to improve waste management procedures. These technologies have the potential to increase productivity, lessen their negative effects on the environment, and produce cleaner, more sustainable urban environments.

A study of illegal dumping near coastal zones and waterways in Grenada: Advancing waste management solutions and reducing marine litter

The small island of Grenada, located in the south-eastern Caribbean, is grappling with the escalating issue of illegal dumping near its coastal zones and waterways. This study aims to investigate the causes of illegal dumping on the island, as well as potential solutions to mitigate its impact on the environment, public health, and the local economy. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, illegal dumpsites were mapped and the Lau, Whyte, and Law (2008) methodology for quantifying waste volume was applied to the study. Data were gathered manually via field work for over two months, including collecting information on illegal dumping sites’ waste type, quantity in terms of volume, and location, supplemented by photographs. Waste was classified into thirteen primary categories, such as construction and demolition (C&D), derelict vehicles and parts, electronic waste, glass, household/domestic waste, medical, healthcare, hygiene-related waste, metals, organic waste, paper and cardboard, plastics, textiles, used tires, white goods, and treated wood piles. The study estimated a total volume of approximately 35, 000 ft3 of waste from 29 unauthorized dumpsites. Out of these sites, C&D waste and plastics were the most dominant type of debris. The generated map offers valuable insights for Grenadian authorities to enhance their solid waste management system. It was revealed that rural and agricultural communities are more susceptible to illegal dumping and the underlying reasons for this issue was further investigated. Furthermore, interviews were conducted with key informants in waste management, marine pollution, and environmental and coastal affairs from other English-speaking Windward Islands. This approach facilitated the identification of shared patterns and the development of more effective, collaborative solutions across the country and region. The research findings can inform policy decisions and community-based initiatives aimed at reducing illegal dumping, fostering environmental responsibility, promoting sustainable waste management practices, and safeguarding the health and resilience of small island ecosystems.

Mobile Application for Monitoring Trash Collection Schedules and Promote Efficient Solid Waste Management

This mobile application is pioneering an innovative solid waste management strategy that utilize mobile technology. This study describes the journey from ideation to implementation using the Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC). The application layouts are intended to produce a profound user interface and improve user experience which includes features such as Trash Collection Schedule Tracker, Dynamic Blogspot, and Junkshop’s Recycling Transactions. This application emphasizes user-centric design and incremental development as a community-driven solution to facilitate solid waste management. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights towards the creation of an effective mobile application for sustainable waste management practices.

Assessment of energy consumption and environmental safety measures in a plasma pyrolysis plant for eco-friendly waste treatment

A plasma pyrolysis plant with a 50 kg/h installed capacity is investigated for its performance in terms of energy consumption, carbon emission, and environmental safety. Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), precisely the combustible fraction, is processed at approximately 1000 °C. A temperature shoot study is conducted to reduce the energy required for waste processing, revealing a total energy consumption of 0.586 kWh per kg of waste, leading to a reduction of ∼15%. A mass and energy balance has been done to get a clear understanding of different products, by-product generation, and heat losses during waste treatment. The gas analysis identified CO and H2 as dominant components, comprising around 30% of the produced gases, with a lower heating value (LHV) of 4.7 MJ/Nm3. The cold gas efficiency ranges from 44 to 53%. The Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) techniques characterize the ash generated during the process and are found carbonless and non-toxic in nature. The wastewater produced during gas cleaning exhibited a neutral acidic nature, with total dissolved solids (TDS) ranging from 1200 to 1500 mg/l. These findings contribute to the plant's promising role in sustainable waste management practices, highlighting its potential as an environmentally sound solution for processing waste.

Development of a simulation model to carry out technical-economic analysis of a food waste valorization process.

Worldwide interest in food waste has been grown over the years. According to the FAO about one third of all food produced for human consumption in the world is lost or wasted each year, amounting to about 1,6 billion tons per year. Food waste can become a source of valuable compounds which may be used as ingredients in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or food products. This study aims to evaluate the use of a process simulation software, specifically SuperPro Designer®, to carry out a technical-economic analysis of an orange waste valorization process. Specifically, the extraction of free sugars, essential oils, antioxidant phenolic compounds and pectin were digitally replicated by reproducing the corresponding material and energy balances. An economic and environmental assessment were carried out to evaluate the feasibility of the biorefinery modeled. The amount of orange peel processed, utilities and raw material costs were identified as significant parameters in the analyses performed. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to evaluate the profitability patterns under different operating conditions. Meanwhile, the aim of the environmental assessment is to define a disposal inventory, which is the starting point for a life cycle assessment. As a result, SuperPro Designer® can be a valuable tool in the designing and optimizing food waste treatment systems, providing detailed descriptions of the process performance, and enabling cost-effective and sustainable waste management practices. Indeed, the simulation accurately reproduced all the steps involved, identifying the total investment and the related economic parameters, as well as the outputs and the resulting disposal inventory.

Sustainable waste management Practices in the Informal Sector Towards Industrial Symbiosis

Industrial pollution is considered to be routed in the waste and byproducts of the production process. Traditional pollution control approaches try to eliminate and/or treat the pollutants which are usually complicated as well as expensive. In this regard, industrial ecology and industrial symbiosis have emerged as a very effective strategy to eliminate industrial pollution. This principle requires the generated waste/by-products absorbed in the same or other industrial process cycles and thus the material cycle remains closed. Industrial pollution appears as a big problem in the developing countries, where industrialization is considered as the main thrust of economic development. Usually, in such countries formal approaches for pollution control approaches are primarily directed to the formal sectors, informal sectors are often left behind. Although the role of informal sector is increasingly being recognized for sustainable development, their significance in the area of pollution abatement is a less discussed topic. This article attempts to investigate the informal industrial sector in Dhaka, Bangladesh with a detail field investigation. The results show evidence of sustainable practices and indicate existence of industrial symbiosis without technical knowledge and designed efforts. This suggests that the informal sector can meaningfully contribute to sustainable development that they show the way of applying similar approaches in the formal sector as well.