A Gap Analysis in Selected Asian Countries, 3R Knowledge Hub ...

Quantity and characteristics are two major
factors, which are considered as the basis for the
design of efficient, cost effective and
environmentally compatible waste management
system. Studies have revealed that quantum of
waste generation varies between 0.2-0.5 kg/
capita/day in the urban centers and it goes up to
0.6 kg/capita/day in metropolitan cities.
The urban local bodies spend approximately Rs.
500 to Rs. 1,500 (USD 12–36) per ton on MSW
for collection, transportation, treatment and
disposal. About 60-70% of this amount is spent
on collection, 20-30% on transportation and less
than 5% on final disposal. Out of the total MSW
collected, an average of 94% is dumped and a
meager 5% is composted (Disha and Thanal,
2001).
MSW dumpsites in Chennai (India)
Image source: 3R S.A. Expert Workshop
Proceeding, Kathmandu, Nepal 2006
The socio-economic structure of our society not
only makes per capita generation of waste much
less compared to that of the western societies, it
also brings a system of waste recycling and
reusing not common in developed societies. A
substantial amount of MSW is recycled and
reused through the primary intervention of
ragpickers and secondhand markets, though
there are problems like health hazards to the rag
pickers and the degradation and devaluation of
the recyclable materials.
Findings
The urban population of 285 million
concentrated in a few large cities and 32
metropolitan cities and accounts for 34.5% of the
total population. It is expected to reach 341
million by 2010 (Census of India, 2001). The
waste quantities are estimated to increase from
46 million tons in 2001 to 65 million tons in 2010
(Kumar and Gaikwad, 2004).
Waste characteristics are expected to change due
to urbanization, increased commercialization
and standard of living. The present trend
indicates that the paper and plastics content will
increase while the organic content will decrease.
The ash and soil content is also expected to
decrease.
Composting is the process of decomposition
and stabilization of organic matter under
controlled conditions. Since India is an
agriculture-based country, there is a need for
popularization of compost production among
the farmers and exploit the value of the product.
Waste minimization, through segregation of
recyclable materials such as plastics, glass and
metals is another aspect, which needs
immediate attention. NGOs may come forward
to promote the activity. Waste pickers may be
trained so that the segregation of recyclable
items can be done in a more systematic and
organized manner.
Chapter 3: Country Analysis
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