Efficiency of Municipal Solid Waste Collection: A Review of Case Studies and Recommendations

Rapid urbanization and population growth have led to an exponential increase in the solid waste generation rate. This huge quantum of waste poses a serious challenge to municipalities all across the globe. When the waste is properly managed and recycled, it can avoid the mining of virgin materials and thus promote sustainability. However, to achieve sustainability and circularity, it is very important to establish an efficient waste collection system. Such a system is necessary not only to prevent unscientific and hazardous waste management practices but also to make the collection phase financially sustainable. To accomplish this task, it is vital to develop an understanding of various factors that influence the efficiency of solid waste collection. This chapter covers this aspect by discussing various case studies from different parts of the globe and highlights different municipal solid waste (MSW) collection strategies and systems, with the primary aim of understanding the efficiency of MSW collection. A detailed discussion is done on the influence of different factors on the MSW collection and processing efficiency. Additionally, the significance of introducing smart technologies and data managing practices, spreading public awareness, integration of informal sector, and public-private partnership (PPP) models has also been highlighted. The decision makers and stakeholders should investigate these recommendations from the lens of geography-specific condition and adopt accordingly.