Municipal solid waste characteristics and management in China

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Waste Management Engineering
• Urban Planning

Background:

• China has experienced a rapid increase in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation over the past two decades.
• MSW generation rose from 31.3 million tons in 1980 to 113.0 million tons in 1998, with an annual growth rate of 3-10%.
• Improper disposal, with nearly half of the waste dumped in suburban areas, has led to substantial environmental pollution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current status of municipal solid waste management in China.
• To identify key problems and challenges within China's MSW management system.
• To lay the groundwork for developing effective remedial strategies for MSW management.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of MSW generation data from 1980 to 1998.
• Characterization of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of MSW in China.
• Review of factors influencing MSW generation quantity and composition.

Main Results:

• China's municipal solid waste is characterized by low calorific value and high moisture content.
• An accumulated 6 billion tons of waste have been dumped in suburban areas, resulting in severe environmental pollution.
• Factors influencing MSW generation quantity and composition were discussed.

Conclusions:

• Urgent need for improved municipal solid waste management strategies in China.
• Understanding waste characteristics is crucial for developing targeted solutions.
• Addressing improper disposal is essential to mitigate environmental pollution.