The Solid Waste Management Rules, 2024, mandate the segregation of waste into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories, enforce penalties for non-compliance, and promote circular economy practices. It requires residential complexes and institutions to sort and process waste on-site. Additionally, it includes measures for managing agricultural waste and preventing open burning.
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The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, first introduced the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, replacing the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000.
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Main Advantages of the New Concept |
Mandatory sorting of waste. |
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Waste Segregation Requirements |
Waste must be divided into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories (e.g., plastic, metal, glass). |
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Obligations for Closed Communities and Institutions |
Residential complexes, hotels, restaurants, and institutions (area > 5,000 m²) must: |
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Emphasis on Circular Economy |
Promotes market mechanisms for waste management. |
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Penalties for Non-Compliance |
Environmental compensation (fines) is based on the "polluter pays" principle for rule violations. |
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Agricultural Waste Management |
Gram panchayats must prevent the open burning of agricultural and horticultural waste. |
Solid waste is any discarded or unwanted material. It includes various items such as paper, plastic, glass and food waste. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act also states that solid waste may include sludges from industrial plants or other discarded materials that result from industrial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations.
Municipal solid waste (MSW): This type includes everyday items discarded by households such as paper, plastics, food scraps, textiles, packaging materials, yard waste and household hazardous waste such as batteries or cleaning products.
Industrial Waste: Industrial waste that arises from industrial processes and manufacturing activities includes materials such as scrap metal, chemicals, solvents, sludges, and other by-products from factories and manufacturing facilities.
Commercial waste: Coming from commercial establishments such as offices, restaurants, shops and institutions, this type of waste includes paper, packaging materials, food waste and other discarded items.
Construction and Demolition Debris (C&D): C&D waste generated during construction, renovation and demolition activities includes concrete, wood, bricks, asphalt, metals, drywall and other materials used in building structures.
Hazardous waste: Materials that pose a risk to human health or the environment due to their toxic, flammable, corrosive or reactive nature are considered hazardous. This category includes items such as batteries, fluorescent lights, pesticides, certain chemicals, and medical waste.
E-waste (e-waste): Discarded electronic devices and equipment such as computers, televisions, smartphones and appliances may contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury and other components that require special handling and disposal.
Agricultural waste: Agricultural waste that is generated during agricultural activities includes crop residues, animal manure, pesticides and other waste produced in agricultural processes.
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Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Solid waste management is a critical issue for urban governance in India. Discuss the challenges faced by Indian cities in managing solid waste and the effectiveness of current policies in addressing the growing problem. Suggest comprehensive measures for improving waste management systems in urban India. (250 words) |
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