Analysis of Non-residential Solid Waste Composition, Generation, and Management Mechanisms

Abstract

Although it is crucial to characterize, quantify, and assess the current management mechanisms used by solid waste generators to ensure effective solid waste management, there is a significant knowledge gap regarding non-residential solid waste in developing countries, such as Ethiopia, particularly in Dangila town. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the composition, generation and management mechanisms of non-residential solid waste for Dangila town. To achieve this, data were collected for seven days, using interviews, group discussions, field observations, and measurements. The study found that food waste was the most significant portion in hotels, cafés, and restaurants, comprising 40.51% and 54.98%, respectively. The estimated solid waste generation rates per facility for hotels, kiosks, and cafes & restaurants were 17.52, 0.97, and 2.11 kg/day, respectively. The solid waste produced by the generators was collected fragmentally, and they did not use an environmentally friendly, socially acceptable, or aesthetically pleasing solid waste management mechanism. The study concludes that the municipality should have a common solid waste collection system and a legal framework to manage the solid waste generated from commercial and institutional centers. It is also essential to apply an integrated solid waste management mechanism for the solid waste generated from these solid waste streams.