Decentralized Solid Waste Management in Urban Areas: Design, Implementation, and Policy Perspectives

Abstract

Urban solid waste management (SWM) is a pressing global issue complicated by growing urban populations, strained municipal services, and environmental concerns. This paper examines decentralized SWM approaches—modeled on community-level composting systems, public–private–community partnerships, and microscale processing units—that reduce transport burdens, enhance recycling rates, and foster local ownership. Drawing on pre-2017 implementations such as Waste Concern in Dhaka (Bangladesh), Exnora International in Chennai (India), and models in Karnataka and Uttarakhand (India), we analyze how technological simplicity, community engagement, and enabling policy create effective localized solutions. Using case study synthesis, technology assessment, and policy evaluation, we extract design principles, implementation challenges, and policy actions that support scale, sustainability, and equity. Findings highlight that decentralized systems improve waste segregation, generate livelihoods, and reduce environmental impact—though they require strong institutional support, capacity building, and financial viability through mechanisms like user fees or market linkages. A structured workflow for designing and sustaining decentralized SWM systems is proposed, adaptable to urban contexts of varying sizes and governance capacities. Advantages include resilience, cost-effectiveness, and community empowerment; while disadvantages include space constraints, variable stakeholder buy-in, and fragmentation risks. This paper contributes to urban sustainability and circular economy efforts by laying out proven decentralized methodologies and policy pathways, offering a practical framework for cities seeking equitable, participatory, and environment-friendly waste solutions.