Sustainable Municipal Waste Management with a Zero Waste Approach

This book includes a variety of cases detailing novel municipal waste management strategies, including use of microorganisms, harnessing artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, and implementing advanced waste management techniques. Sustainable municipal waste management, coupled with a zero waste approach and circular economy principles, represents a pivotal strategy for addressing the escalating challenges posed by municipal waste pollution. Municipal waste encompasses a diverse array of materials generated from households, businesses, institutions, and public spaces, including organic waste, plastics, paper, metals, and glass. As urbanization accelerates and consumption patterns evolve, the volume of municipal waste continues to surge, exerting significant pressures on ecosystems, public health, and natural resources. Municipal waste pollution arises from improper disposal practices, inadequate waste management infrastructure, and unsustainable consumption habits.

Sources of municipal waste in the environment include landfills, incineration facilities, illegal dumping sites, and littering, contributing to soil, water, and air pollution. The indiscriminate disposal of waste leads to a number of adverse effects and impacts, including habitat destruction, wildlife entanglement, groundwater contamination, greenhouse gas emissions, and the proliferation of disease vectors. To address these challenges, innovative approaches blended with sustainability principles are essential. With these strategies, communities can transition toward more resilient and resource-efficient waste management systems