Waste Management Practices: A Comparative Analysis of Developed and Developing Countries
When evaluating waste management practices across the globe,
significant disparities emerge between developed and developing countries.
Developed nations generally exhibit more advanced and effective waste
management systems, characterized by modern infrastructure, comprehensive
regulations, and high recycling rates. These countries benefit from advanced
technology, such as automated waste collection and sophisticated recycling
facilities, supported by stringent policies and public awareness campaigns. However,
challenges persist, including high waste generation rates and the environmental
impacts of landfills.
In contrast, developing countries often face substantial
hurdles in waste management, including inadequate infrastructure, weak
regulations, and low recycling rates. Despite these challenges, there are
notable strengths in these regions, such as community-based initiatives and the
vital role played by the informal sector in waste collection and recycling.
Informal waste pickers contribute significantly to resource recovery, albeit
under precarious conditions. Nevertheless, developing countries struggle with
issues like poor waste management infrastructure, limited public awareness, and
severe health and environmental risks.
Different waste management methods in developed and developing countries are:
Uncontrolled dumping
This is followed by an uncontrolled disposal of waste in many low-income countries. For some countries, it may take as long as 20 years for proper waste disposal to be provided.
Plastic waste
The two even rank in the Top 5 plastic polluting countries in Southeast Asia. In both countries, a limited ban on disposable plastics is in effect and there has been the introduction of altered plastic waste deposition habits.
Waste composition
The composition of waste changes as cities become more urbanised. The use of paper and packaging grows, as does plastics and consumer goods.
Waste management focus
Citizens in developing countries appear to be more concerned with the environmental and economic impacts of waste management than public health.
Recycling rates
With a recycling rate of 66.1%, Germany is one of the world leaders in terms of its recycling culture. More examples of good recycling with well-placed and maintained facilities include Sweden and South Korea.
Waste management efficiency
A review comparing waste management practices of most sustainable to least discovered that the developing countries are not well organised and they do it inefficiently.
As youth, we have a crucial role in revolutionizing waste
management practices worldwide. We can make a significant impact by advocating
for stronger waste management policies, raising awareness about effective
practices through social media, and participating in local initiatives like
recycling drives and clean-up events. Support and promote innovative waste
management technologies and practices, and lead by example with our own
sustainable habits, such as reducing, reusing, and recycling. Additionally, recognize
and advocate for better conditions for informal waste pickers in developing
countries, and foster global collaboration by sharing knowledge and strategies
between developed and developing nations. By taking these actions, we
contribute to a more sustainable and effective global waste management system.
References:
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Through Livestock. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
● Science. (2020). The Role of Beef
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● Global Environmental Change. (2018).
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(2018). Water Footprint of Meat Production.
● Land Degradation & Development.
(2020). Soil Degradation from Livestock Grazing.
● Nature Sustainability. (2022).
Nitrogen Pollution from Meat Production.
● Proceedings of the National Academy
of Sciences. (2021). Antibiotic Use in Livestock and Resistance.
● Environmental Science &
Technology. (2019). Methane Emissions from Livestock.
