Global Benefits of Integrated Solid Waste Management

Booming populations and rapidly growing urban areas generate massive amounts of municipal waste that contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, wasted natural resources, and pollution when not properly managed.  Diverse cultures and economies produce different types of waste that effect the environment in different ways. As developing countries grow, their gross domestic product increases and the types of waste change.  Global leaders at all levels should consider these changes and develop plans for a sustainable Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) system that includes community education. A sustainable ISWM system can reduce the environmental impact of solid waste and create economy.