Sustainable Solid Waste Management and Reduction in Carbon Footprints in Pakistan

Abstract

This study addresses the critical need for effective waste management strategies in urban areas, focusing on the Cadets Battalion in Military College of Engineering, Risalpur, and Hayatabad, Peshawar. The escalating challenges of rapid urbanization and population growth have amplified the complexities of solid waste management, demanding innovative solutions. Our research aims to analyze and compare the waste composition in Cadets Battalion and Hayatabad to understand the underlying factors contributing to waste generation and management inefficiencies. The primary challenge lies in the increasing volumes and diverse nature of waste streams, coupled with inadequate waste management infrastructures. This study seeks to identify these challenges comprehensively to propose sustainable solutions that align with global sustainability goals. Existing remedies primarily focus on Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) approaches, emphasizing waste reduction, recycling, and resource recovery. However, the implementation of these strategies faces numerous obstacles, including limited resources and infrastructure. Our proposed approach involves detailed waste characterization, proximate analysis, and CHNS analysis to understand the composition, energy potential, and environmental impacts of solid waste. By conducting research and analysis, we aim to provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing waste management practices in Cadet Battalion and Hayatabad, contributing to environmental sustainability, economic efficiency, and social well-being. This study utilized systematic data collection methods, including waste sampling, segregation, weighing, and analysis, following ASTM standards and best practices in waste management research. The results and insights generated from this study are essential for policymakers, urban planners, and waste management practitioners to develop and implement effective strategies tailored to the unique challenges and contexts of Cadets Battalion and Hayatabad.