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The Effect of Construction and Demolition Waste Plastic Fractions on Wood-Polymer Composite Properties

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Solid waste management challenges for cities in developing countries.

Lilliana Abarca Guerrero¹, Ger Maas, William Hogland

¹Built Environment Department, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech, 25612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands. l.abarca.guerrero@tue.nl

Waste Management (New York, N.Y.)

|October 27, 2012

Summary

Effective solid waste management in developing countries requires understanding stakeholder actions and influential factors. This study identifies key elements crucial for improving urban waste handling systems and municipal efficiency.

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Area of Science:

Environmental Science
Urban Planning
Public Administration

Background:

Solid waste management presents significant challenges for developing countries, stemming from increased waste generation, high operational costs, and a lack of comprehensive understanding of the system.
Existing literature from 2005-2011 in key journals shows limited quantitative data on waste management in developing nations.
The complexity of waste management involves numerous factors and requires effective linkages across the entire handling system.

Purpose of the Study:

To identify key stakeholders and their actions within urban solid waste management processes.
To analyze the factors influencing the performance of waste management systems in urban areas across developing countries.
To provide insights for effective planning and implementation of improved waste management strategies.

Main Methods:

A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining literature review, database analysis, site observations, and structured interviews.
Data collection included professional interviews, workshop exercises, and stakeholder questionnaires across over thirty urban areas in 22 developing countries.
Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were utilized for data analysis and drawing conclusions.

Main Results:

A comprehensive list of relevant stakeholders in solid waste management systems was compiled.
Key factors contributing to the failure of waste management systems were identified.
Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered to assess system performance and influencing dynamics.

Conclusions:

Understanding stakeholder roles and influential factors is critical for successful solid waste management.
The research provides valuable data for cities aiming to plan, modify, or implement effective waste management systems.
Addressing identified factors can lead to more efficient and sustainable urban waste handling.