sustainable development 20 years on from the ... - José Eli da Veiga

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In some countries, there are large gaps in the basic collection and disposal stages. In many
countries, collection remains a local government responsibility. Just as with basic sanitation, the efficient
scale for waste collection and disposal operations does not always match the size of municipalities.
Institutional arrangements for cooperation between Governments can facilitate investment and services.
Where payment for services is guaranteed, collection is usually adequate, but is not always accompanied
by proper final disposal or treatment.
Improper waste management, particularly where waste is disposed of in open dump sites, can
exact a heavy toll on human health, especially when fires break out (PAHO, <strong>20</strong>05). Costs are also
incurred by air-quality deterioration and by gas emissions, particularly biogas (composed primarily of
methane), with the resulting impact on climate change. Fire hazards, strong odours from uncontrolled
decomposition of organic matter, proliferation of disease vectors, improper use and degradation of land,
and contamination of aquifers are all economic and environmental impacts typical of poorly managed
domestic solid waste.