Techniques for better management of municipal solid waste strategies: A case study of Moratuwa municipality, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Effective implementation of Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) strategies remains an issue in many developing countries. To analyse the effectiveness of the strategies, it is vital to understand the techniques employed to implement such strategies. Hence, this paper aims to analyse the techniques in implementing MSWM strategies in Sri Lanka. Single case study on Moratuwa municipality, which is considered as a critical case, was conducted. The study used a mixed approach; predominantly qualitative. Using purposive sampling method, semi-structured interviews were carried among 19 residents, one from each urban division of Moratuwa Municipal Council (MC), 03 MC officers, and 02 waste collectors. Additionally, 75 questionnaires were collected from residents. Code-based content analysis and quantitative statistical methods were used to analyse the interviews and questionnaires respectively. The community and MC have adopted various techniques in implementing MSWM strategies. Nevertheless, the community is not aware of some of the techniques enacted by MC. Strong communication between the MC officers and community, and between the different municipalities have been recommended for better management of MSW. The study has concluded by proposing some MSWM techniques that can be utilised by all municipalities in Sri Lanka as well as in other developing countries that face similar MSWM problems.