Waste is a consequence of any human activity. The generation of waste is one of the most pressing environmental challenges in the urban setting. As the population in urban areas in India increases, the amount of municipal waste generated daily increases. In turn health hazards as well as environmental hazards continue to increase.
Traditionally, municipal solid waste management in India involved the dumping of solid wastes in landfills. However, the waste being generated as a result of daily activities is increasing and the sizes of the landfills remain the same. In addition to this, children and adults alike have been affected by diseases resulting from rodents and pathogens in the landfill environment. Solid waste management in India by dumping waste in a landfill is no longer a sustainable option.
Introduction of the concept of sustainable development has brought a different perspective to the issues of municipal solid waste management. In the past, solid waste management in India was focused on ensuring that the waste was kept out of sight. After all out of sight, out of mind. However, the concept of sustainable development has changed the focus of organizations involved in municipal solid waste management in India. These organizations are now focused on seeking means to reduce waste and to effectively manage the waste produced with the aim of promoting a safe and healthy environment.
Waste reduction has been viewed as one of the key factors in improving waste management in India. However, this is something that has to be worked on at societal and individual levels. This calls for a reduction in the use of natural resources. It calls for manufacturers to change their productions methods and individuals to change their personal activities. Manufacturers are encouraged to recycle materials within the production process.
The reduction of waste however is something that can only be achieved over a long time. Therefore the focus of many organizations has shifted to the effective management of solid waste. Methods are being sought that are environmentally sustainable. These methods of municipal solid waste management must reduce the impacts of waste on the environment as far as possible and be economical for the community.
Effwa Infra and Research works in conjunction with international partners to develop solid waste management systems that ensure a safe and healthy environment. The solutions offered are aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth within the community. These solutions include the safe collection, transport and processing of the wastes as well as the final disposal.