“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” – Native American Proverb

The Escalating Challenge of Solid Waste: A Worldwide Concern

Recent years have witnessed a stark escalation in the generation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) on a global scale. In 2023, the world generated an alarming 2.3 billion tons of MSW. It is projected that by 2035, this figure will rise to 3.0 billion tons, and it could soar as high as 4.0 billion tons by 2060 if current trends continue.

Geographic Disparities in Waste Generation

A substantial proportion of the world’s waste—almost half (44%)—comes from the regions of East Asia and the Pacific, Central Asia, and Europe. East Asia and the Pacific bear the brunt of waste generation, contributing 515 million tons, or 24% of the global total. Conversely, regions such as the Middle East and North Africa contribute the least, accounting for a mere 7% of global waste.

The Link between Economic Growth, Population Increase, and Waste Generation

Waste generation is intimately tied to economic development and population growth. Countries in low- and middle-income regions, specifically Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, are projected to experience a significant surge in waste generation, with their waste levels set to quadruple and triple, respectively, over the next three decades. Conversely, regions with higher incomes, including Europe, North America, and Central Asia, are expected to witness a more moderate yet steady increase in waste accumulation levels.

The Influence of Income on Waste Composition and Management

The world, on average, generates approximately 0.79 kilograms (kg) of waste per person per day, with individual countries’ waste generation rates ranging from 0.12 kg to 4.80 kg per person per day. As income levels rise, the composition of waste tends to shift. Low- and middle-income countries generate nearly 55% of food and green waste, while high-income countries produce about 35% of such waste.

Recyclable waste, encompassing materials like paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and glass, constitutes a larger portion of waste in high-income countries—around 55%—compared to just 18% in low-income countries. Consequently, as a country’s income increases, so does the quantity of recyclables in its waste stream. This is illustrated by the fact that nearly 40% of waste in high-income countries is recovered through recycling and composting.

Firstgreen Consulting: Champions of Sustainable Solutions

In this escalating global scenario of solid waste management, Firstgreen Consulting provides insightful and progressive solutions. A distinguished player in the renewable energy consulting sphere, Firstgreen Consulting offers comprehensive services related to solar, wind, and energy storage technologies. They are champions of sustainability, committed to assisting businesses in transitioning towards cleaner, greener energy alternatives. With a rigorous approach to research and the development of innovative strategies, Firstgreen Consulting is making meaningful strides in optimizing energy use, shrinking carbon footprints, and supporting their clients in attaining their sustainability goals. Their expertise and dedication to renewable energy solutions are pivotal in addressing the urgent issues of solid waste management, paving the way for a sustainable future.