A Review of Environmental Impact of Solid Waste Management in India

One of the world's major areas of concern is municipal solid waste(MSW). MSW. In developing countries such as India, urbanization and population growth are rapidly increasing municipal solid waste. Waste composition varies with various factors, such as living standards, climate conditions, socio-economic factors, etc. This paper presents India's current scenario in terms of quantity, quality and management of municipal solid waste. Urbanization contributes to increased generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) and unscientific management of MSW degrades the urban environment and poses a risk to health. In addition to an extensive review of MSW generation, its characterisation as well as the collection and treatment options in India, an effort is made in this paper to evaluate the major parameters of MSWM. MSWM's current status is also reported in the Indian states and major cities. The essential requirements for the optimal use are discussed, as well as the challenges and the unusual role of rag-pickers, of public private partnership opportunities. The study concludes that it is important for developing countries such as India to set up decentralized solid waste processing plants in metropolitan towns and for developing the formal recycling industry.