Waste

The utilization of Solid Waste Compost (SWC) as an organic fertilizer (OF) in agriculture has garnered significant attention in recent years due to growing concerns about worsening waste management issues. This empirical study investigates paddy farmers’ perceptions of SWC under Sri Lanka’s organic farming policy and uniquely addresses its underexploited potential as an organic fertilizer. Data were collected from 254 respondents in the Attanagalla Divisional Secretariat Division via a structured questionnaire. Nine key performance indicators were established to evaluate SWC against other organic fertilizers considered for the study. Findings revealed that meeting the ‘required quantity’ OF was the most challenging aspect (91%) for organic paddy cultivation, while only 14.2% of paddy farmers were able to utilize SWC for paddy fields due to limited availability. Farmers appreciated SWC as the most effective in balancing pest–predator interactions, even surpassing straw; however, its availability lagged compared to alternatives such as straw. Farmers expressed a higher likelihood of adopting SWC if it met government certification standards. The findings conclude that, while increasing production of SWC could enhance its role as an organic fertilizer in paddy farming, achieving its quality standards for paddy farming through government standard certification is crucial for successful implementation.

The massive production of municipal solid waste presents a significant global challenge for sustainable urban development and maintaining citizens’ quality of life, requiring effective management and disposal strategies. Waste-to-energy incineration technology has become increasingly important as a solution that simultaneously addresses the growing volumes of municipal solid waste and rising energy needs worldwide. This comprehensive review examines the research findings on the effectiveness of incineration as a waste-to-energy conversion method. The primary goal was to conduct a thorough systematic review assessing WtE incineration effectiveness across several key areas: energy recovery efficiency, waste volume reduction capabilities, environmental impact, and economic feasibility. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across ScienceDirect and additional pertinent databases, utilizing appropriate search terms in accordance with the PRISMA framework. A total of 431 studies were systematically identified, published between 2015 and 2025, and only 25 relevant studies were included in this review. Researchers collected data focusing on energy recovery percentages, volume reduction rates, emission reductions, and economic performance metrics. The findings revealed that every study included in the analysis showed positive results for WtE incineration across various performance measures. This research discovered the feasibility of generating electrical power from garbage through WtE incineration processes. The projected energy yields, ranging from gigawatt-hours to kilowatt-hours, were quantified for several nations, including Mexico (11,681.64 GWh), Cambodia (1625.81 GWh), Bangladesh (187.04 GWh), South Africa (6944 GWh), Iran (17,678 GWh), Nigeria (10,000 GWh), Indonesia (2487 MWh), Algeria (11.6 MWh), China (2316.52 MWh), Iraq (203.917 MWh), Uganda (774 kWh), and Pakistan (675 kWh). Energy recovery efficiency demonstrated a wide range from 30% to 92.75%, with waste volume reduction consistently reaching 90–95% levels, significantly prolonging landfill operational lifespans. From an environmental perspective, technology achieved greenhouse gas emission reductions ranging from 30% to 87%. This dual-purpose approach makes it an attractive, sustainable solution for both waste management and renewable energy production. By adopting this approach, cities can address waste and energy issues while boosting economic growth and job creation. However, it also involves substantial costs, technical difficulties, and environmental hazards that necessitate meticulous oversight.

The overconsumption of plastic packaging has alarming repercussions on the environment, notably through waste accumulation in public spaces and clogged drains. This study identifies factors driving plastic proliferation, analyzes their impacts, and proposes strategies for sustainable waste management. A cross-sectional design combined document review, field observations, and interviews with 156 households and 24 informants. Descriptive statistics characterized consumption patterns and service access. Impacts were assessed through litter hotspots, blocked drains, flood-prone points, and reported health risks. Households used five to six plastic bags daily, while collection coverage remained below 50%, sustaining persistent leakage. Findings reveal excessive reliance on plastics, shaped by technical, social, and institutional gaps, including weak segregation and limited pre-collection. Agoè-Nyivé 4, a fast-growing peri-urban commune within Greater Lomé, faces limited services but high consumption, making it a relevant case for rapidly growing municipalities. Yet the population often adopts counterproductive practices, hampering responsible waste management. A policy mix is outlined: expanding pre-collection and door-to-door services, integrating informal collectors, and targeted community sensitization. Without urgent interventions, plastic leakage will intensify environmental degradation, flooding, and health risks. The study recommends integrated policy measures to curb single-use dependence and foster a local circular economy.