Municipal solid waste management challenges in developing regions: A comprehensive review and future perspectives for Asia and Africa

• Published in: The Science of the total environment Vol. 930; p. 172794
• Main Authors: Zhang, Zhechen, Chen, Zhonghao, Zhang, Jiawen, Liu, Yunfei, Chen, Lin, Yang, Mingyu, Osman, Ahmed I., Farghali, Mohamed, Liu, Engui, Hassan, Dalia, Ihara, Ikko, Lu, Kun, Rooney, David W., Yap, Pow-Seng
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 20.06.2024
• Subjects: Asia and Africa; Challenges; Municipal solid waste; Policy; Waste treatment; Policy; Asia and Africa; Waste treatment; Challenges; Municipal solid waste
• ISSN: 0048-9697; 1879-1026
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172794

The rapid urbanization witnessed in developing countries in Asia and Africa has led to a substantial increase in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation. However, the corresponding disposal strategies, along with constraints in land resources and finances, compounded by unorganized public behaviour, have resulted in ineffective policy implementation and monitoring. This lack of systematic and targeted orientation, combined with blind mapping, has led to inefficient development in many areas. This review examines the key challenges of MSW management in developing countries in Asia and Africa from 2013 to 2023, drawing insights from 170 academic papers. Rather than solely focusing on recycling, the study proposes waste sorting at the source, optimization of landfill practices, thermal treatment measures, and strategies to capitalize on the value of waste as more pertinent solutions aligned with local realities. Barriers to optimizing management systems arise from socio-economic factors, infrastructural limitations, and cultural considerations. The review emphasizes the importance of integrating the study area into the circular economy framework, with a focus on enhancing citizen participation in solid waste reduction and promoting recycling initiatives, along with seeking economic assistance from international organizations. [Display omitted] •Investigating shifts in MSWM practices in Asia and Africa from 2012 to 2022•Despite policies, open-air treatments hinder MSWM effectiveness.•Positive trend as waste-to-value practices benefit MSWM in Asia and Africa.•Three barriers analyzed with tailored solutions for practical implementation.•Targeted strategies for authorities and the public in navigating MSWM complexities.