On the contribution of risk management plans to municipal solid waste management: Evidence from a major Greek municipality

Abstract

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management is becoming a highly important issue of considerable complexity, considering the plethora of processes, technologies and strategies available, and taking into account the number and diversity of the stakeholders involved. As complexity increases in times of uncertainty, risks increase in the development and operation of waste management systems, requiring consistent management. The aim of this paper is to briefly demonstrate the application and importance of a risk management perspective in the design, implementation and further development of a robust and resilient municipal solid waste policy. We concentrate on a major Greek municipality (Patras) and outline the use of a risk management method, as well as discussing its benefits when applied in the framework of the existing solid waste management system.