International source book on environmentally sound technologies for municipal solid waste management

The purpose of this book is to facilitate the sharing of information about Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM), to promote such sharing both among developing countries, and between them and industrialized countries. To the extent that it is possible to identify environmentally sound technologies that are consistent with the economic, social and climatic situations of developing countries, this book considers these to be sound practices. It is noted that total agreement among experts on some of the policies and technologies discussed in this book is not possible. The publication strives to take a balanced approach to such issues. The book is aimed at urban managers and others involved in solid waste in developing countries who can use the information presented to guide their decision making. The book provides substantive information and ideas about MSWM, together with a long list of institutional sources of information about these issues. The book has three main sections. The first section touches on the importance of sound financial planning and management, strategies for moving toward operational efficiency, public involvement in waste issues, the need to understand the character of the wastes that are generated, and the significant differences between developing and industrialized countries. Section two, on sound practices, covers the following topics: waste reduction; collection and transfer; composting; incineration; landfills; and special wastes. Section three consists of regional overviews and information sources, which in addition to the six topics mentioned above, also covers the following issues: waste characterization, management and planning, training; public education, and financing. At the end of each overview for a sub-topic in a particular region, there is a list of the names of institutional sources of information that are available in that region on that topic. Private firms specializing in technology development or primarily providing consultant services in MSWM are not included in the book.