Municipal Solid Waste: A Challenge for the Environment and the Economy

Waste Management: A Complex and Inefficient Supply Chain

Managing municipal solid waste (MSW) represents a complex challenge for cities and communities worldwide. The traditional system, based on mixed waste collection, landfill disposal, and incineration, proves to be inefficient and unsustainable in several respects.

High Costs and Inefficient Contracts

The current waste management system is burdened with high costs, which are reflected in citizens’ taxes. Waste collection and disposal contracts are often awarded to companies offering the lowest price, which does not always ensure efficient and high-quality service.

Low Efficiency and Inadequate Performance

Mixed waste collection results in a significant waste of resources and a lack of recyclable material recovery. The system’s low efficiency translates into service disruptions for citizens, such as delays in collection and waste accumulation in the streets.

Environmental Impact: A Threat to the Planet – Environmental Damage on Land, Air, and Sea

The unsustainability of the current system is also evident from an environmental perspective. Landfills cause soil and groundwater pollution, while incineration produces harmful emissions into the atmosphere. Waste dispersion in the environment poses a danger to wildlife and human health.

Technology: An Ally for Efficient Waste Management – Inadequate Technological Status Quo

Despite the availability of technological innovations, the waste management sector struggles to adopt them on a large scale. The lack of digitalisation and tracking systems makes it difficult to monitor system efficiency and identify optimal solutions.

Waste Export: An Unsustainable Solution

Exporting waste to developing countries is a widespread practice but does not represent a sustainable solution. It does not address the root of the problem and can cause severe environmental and social damage in the destination countries.

New Raw Materials: Unsustainable Resource Extraction

The linear economy, based on the extraction of new raw materials, is leading to the depletion of natural resources and environmental degradation. The need to find sustainable alternatives is becoming increasingly urgent.

Circular Economy: A Model for the Future – Lack of Local Circular Economy Models

The circular economy offers an alternative model for waste management, based on reduction, reuse, and recycling. Implementing circular economy models at the local level is crucial for the transition to a sustainable system.

Conclusion

Managing municipal solid waste is a complex challenge that requires a paradigm shift. Adopting innovative technologies, implementing circular economy models, and fostering collaboration between citizens, public entities, and private sectors are necessary to build a more sustainable future.