Managing waste, smartly

ANJAL PRAKASH

Jul 2023
from Shaastra :: vol 02 issue 04 :: Jul - Aug 2023

Harnessing technology and embracing digitalisation have the potential to revolutionise waste management practices.

Given the scale of garbage generation worldwide, waste management poses something of a crisis. The annual production of plastic exceeds 400 million tonnes; at least 14 million tonnes of this enter the oceans every year, making up 80% of the amount of marine trash found in surface waters and deep-sea sediments. As garbage builds up in landfills, rivers and seas, improper waste management causes extensive environmental harm. As non-biodegradable garbage contaminates freshwater and enters the food chain, the effects extend to human health.