Solid waste management presents a significant opportunity for decarbonization, particularly in India, where rapid urbanization and economic growth have led to an increase in waste generation. Efficiently managing this waste is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving resources, and promoting sustainability. This high-impact content explores the potential for decarbonization through solid waste management in India, supported by data, examples, and case studies, with targets set for 2030.
Current Scenario
India generates approximately 67 million tonnes of municipal solid waste (MSW) annually. Of this, about 47 million tonnes are collected, and only 15 million tonnes are treated. The remaining 31 million tonnes are dumped in landfills or open areas, leading to environmental degradation and health hazards. Additionally, India produces around 9.62 million tonnes of hazardous waste and about 1.71 million tonnes of e-waste each year.
Key Sources of Solid Waste
- Residential: Household waste, including organic waste, plastics, and packaging materials.
- Commercial: Waste from businesses, markets, and offices, including paper, plastics, and food waste.
- Industrial: Waste from manufacturing processes, including chemicals, metals, and construction debris.
Key Technology
- Recycling and Resource Recovery: Improved Recycling Rates: Currently, India recycles about 30% of its MSW. The goal is to increase this to 60% by 2030. For instance, the city of Indore has set an example by achieving a 60% recycling rate through effective waste segregation and processing.
- Plastic Waste Management: India generates around 3.3 million tonnes of plastic waste annually. Initiatives like the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) aim to recycle 70% of plastic waste by 2030.
- Waste-to-Energy (WtE): Expansion of WtE Plants: India currently has about 10 operational WtE plants, processing around 6,000 tonnes of waste daily. By 2030, the goal is to have 100 WtE plants capable of processing 30,000 tonnes of waste daily, generating approximately 1,000 MW of electricity and reducing CO2 emissions by 8 million tonnes annually.
- Pyrolysis and Gasification: Advanced thermal processes like pyrolysis and gasification can convert waste into energy more efficiently than traditional combustion. Implementing these technologies can recover higher value from waste and reduce environmental impact.
- Composting and Organic Waste Management : Organic waste constitutes about 50% of India's MSW. Expanding composting facilities can convert this waste into valuable fertilizer, reducing landfill burden and methane emissions. The goal is to compost 75% of organic waste by 2030.
- Biogas Production: India aims to set up 5,000 biogas plants by 2030, processing 5 million tonnes of organic waste annually and reducing CO2 emissions by 15 million tonnes.
- Smart Waste Collection: Implementing IoT-based smart waste collection systems can optimize waste collection routes, reduce fuel consumption, and minimize operational costs. Cities like Bengaluru and Pune are already piloting smart waste bins and collection systems.
- AI and Machine Learning: Using AI and machine learning for waste sorting and segregation can improve recycling efficiency. Technologies like AI-driven robots for waste sorting are being tested in various cities.
Case Studies
- Indore’s Waste Management Model: Indore has been recognized as India's cleanest city for four consecutive years due to its effective waste management practices. The city has implemented door-to-door waste collection, segregation at source, and robust recycling and composting infrastructure.
- Delhi’s Waste-to-Energy Plant: The Okhla WtE plant in Delhi processes around 2,000 tonnes of waste daily, generating 16 MW of electricity. This plant showcases the technology to manage waste and produce renewable energy.
- Pune’s Digital Waste Management: Pune Municipal Corporation has partnered with private firms to implement a smart waste management system using IoT-enabled bins and GPS tracking for waste collection vehicles. This initiative has optimized waste collection routes, reduced fuel consumption, and improved overall efficiency.
