Transforming Trash: Technological Developments in Waste Management

Last year, MoHUA & RITES signed an MoU to standardize waste management in 3700 towns with less than 1 lakh population & extend technical support in solid waste & used water management.

The partnership is expected to enable such cities to execute Swachh Bharat works more efficiently through the ‘safe containment, collection, transportation, treatment, & reuse’ of waste.

Recently, Shillong authorities have deployed a solar-powered AI Boat to clean Umiam Lake, a tourist hotspot. This project is one of the many tech-driven solutions that have emerged for waste management.

Likewise, Rewa is aiming to generate 12 MW of electricity via ReSL’s waste-to-energy plant, ensuring landfill waste reduction.

Community-driven initiatives are also contributing to cleaner environments while providing livelihoods to those in need. Guwahati's Shree Guru Plastics is recycling waste while employing socio-economically disadvantaged women. However, Guwahati lacks a proper waste management system with little to no waste segregation at the source. Without due enforcement, recycling units remain hindered in scaling their impact.

According to LSHG data, Kerala has achieved nearly 87% of its goal towards a zero-waste future; the Haritha Karma Sena has contributed to this by providing door-to-door waste collection services for a minimal fee. A Kannur-based company’s IT tool, “Nellikka” has now been integrated to streamline this process after piloting in Taliparamba.

Chandigarh’s first decentralized garbage processing unit has had mixed responses from RWAs and housing societies over potential concerns about smell and emissions. However, in Kochi's Kunnumpuram waste treatment plant, similar apprehensions were addressed when the plant started running smoothly with adequate financial backing from Edappally Vadakkumbagham Service Cooperative Bank. With the help of local actors and authorities, tied together with the needs of the community, such initiatives have the potential to create a sustainable and better future.

Are tech-based innovations being used to manage waste in your city?

How have such integrations impacted your environment and community?