Tackling the mounting challenge of solid waste

Solid waste management is a pressing issue in Pakistan, with rapidly growing urban populations and inadequate infrastructure exacerbating the problem. The mismanagement of solid waste leads to environmental pollution, health hazards, and economic losses. However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities for innovative solutions that can transform waste into resources and promote sustainable development. There is a dire need to explore the various strategies and initiatives for solid waste management in Pakistan, that can help mitigate its adverse effects and foster a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

Pakistan faces numerous challenges in managing solid waste effectively. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and insufficient waste management infrastructure strain the existing systems. Open dumping and burning of waste are common practices, leading to air, soil, and water pollution. Moreover, limited awareness and inadequate enforcement of regulations contribute to the persistence of improper waste disposal habits among the populace. Only a handful of cities and towns across Pakistan enjoy a proper waste management system but the question remains whether they handle the entire waste generated by their respective population efficiently. The answer is perhaps no because majority of the waste management services pick the solid waste from primary and secondary dumping points and later dump it at a designated landfills like Losar in Rawalpindi, Sangjani in Islamabad and Mahmood Booti in Lahore. But is dumping the waste away from the cities can be termed a viable solution. There are better and more sustainable solutions and in this scenario, finding sustainable solutions becomes imperative to address the multifaceted challenges of solid waste management.

A holistic approach to solid waste management is essential for tackling the issue effectively. Integrated Waste Management (IWM) emphasises the reduction, reuse, recycling, and proper disposal of waste to minimise its environmental impact. Pakistan can adopt this approach by implementing comprehensive strategies at various stages of the waste management process.

Establishing recycling facilities and promoting the recycling industry can significantly reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills. In Pakistan, informal recycling sectors exist, but formalising and supporting these initiatives can enhance their efficiency and sustainability. Furthermore, incentivising industries to use recycled materials in their production processes can create a market for recyclables, driving economic growth while reducing waste that can not only help the country reduce its waste significant but also providing ready raw material that can be exported to countries like China.

Most importantly organic waste constitutes a significant portion of the solid waste stream in Pakistan. Implementing composting programmes can divert organic waste from landfills and produce nutrient-rich compost for agriculture. Integrated Resource Recovery Centres and other community composting initiatives, supported by local governments and NGOs, can encourage households and communities to compost organic waste, turning it into a valuable resource for soil enrichment. It can reduce to costs incurred by government in transportation of solid waste from cities to landfills.

Using green waste as fodder for cattle in Pakistan can be a sustainable solution with various benefits. Green waste, such as crop residues, kitchen scraps, and leftover fruits and vegetables, can serve as nutritious feed for cattle, especially when properly processed and supplemented with other nutrients. Green waste contains essential nutrients, including fibre, vitamins, and minerals, which are beneficial for cattle health and growth. However, its nutritional content can vary, so it’s important to analyse and balance the feed to meet the dietary requirements of the cattle. Depending on the type of green waste, it may require processing or treatment to improve digestibility and remove any harmful substances. Green waste alone may not provide all the nutrients required by cattle for optimal growth and productivity. It may need to be supplemented with protein sources, minerals, and vitamins to ensure a balanced diet that can be done through value addition.

Using green waste for compost production and fodder for cattle can also help addressing landfill dumping of solid waste in Pakistan that can add value to the Suthra Punjab programme initiated by government of Punjab and it could be replicated in rest of the country as well.

Solid waste management remains a significant challenge in Pakistan, but it also presents opportunities for innovation and sustainable development. By adopting an integrated approach that encompasses waste minimization, recycling, composting, infrastructure development, and policy reforms, Pakistan can address its waste management crisis effectively. Moreover, fostering community engagement and raising public awareness are essential for building a culture of responsible waste management. With concerted efforts from government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and civil society, Pakistan can overcome its solid waste management challenges and pave the way for a cleaner, healthier future.