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Decentralized Solid Waste Management

Case Study of the Day: Decentralized Solid Waste Management – Cradle-to-Grave Model

In the city of Mysuru, Karnataka, changes have been brought about by adopting the decentralised management of biodegradable waste and the cradle-to-grave model.

Table of Contents

Background

In the city of Mysuru, Karnataka, changes have been brought about by adopting the decentralised management of biodegradable waste and the cradle-to-grave model.

About the Model

Before 2014, the scenario of waste generated in Mysuru was not different from that of other cities, as waste collected was not segregated, resulting in a growing height of dumpsites, all of which demanded a sustainable solution.
The following system has been introduced for the implementation of biodegradable waste management:
- Source segregation
- Processing of biodegradable waste by Aerobic composting, which include:
  - Centralised biodegradable waste processing unit, which produced compost from Biodegradable waste
  - Decentralised zero-waste management units: To maximise processing efficiency and minimise load on the centralised compost unit, while minimising transfer-related issues such as the spilling of waste, foul smell and leaking.
    - This process also reduces the chances of mixing waste at the secondary centre, making the processing of biodegradable waste more accessible and convenient, and material recovery more reliable and efficient.
The following Impacts have been evident:
- Environmental
  - According to Mysuru City Corporation, due to the effort, only 2–4% of inerts, non-recyclables and residues from zero-waste plants go to landfills.
  - Solid waste’s biodegradable content is a potent polluter, due to its capacity to generate methane and leachate during decomposition, whose long-term effects include global warming, climate change and groundwater pollution from seepage.
  - Environmental and human health has reportedly improved because of decreased pollution levels.
- Employment and Empowerment:
  - The manual work in the operations of the model engages more women workers, safaimitras and self-help groups, which helps them achieve dignified lives.
Considering the impact of the cradle-to-grave model, while realising its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, makes it a perfect model to replicate in small urban local bodies of Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, in other parts of India.