Waste management model for COVID-19: recommendations for future threats

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Waste Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered lifestyles, leading to a global surge in solid waste, particularly infectious waste.
• Existing waste management strategies proved insufficient for the increased volume and type of waste generated by households and healthcare facilities.
• Both developed and developing nations faced unprecedented challenges in managing pandemic-related waste.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze effective solid waste management policies implemented by diverse economies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To document unique approaches to infectious waste disposal adopted by selected countries.
• To provide insights into sustainable waste management practices applicable to future health crises.

Main Methods:

• Case study selection of developing, developed, and underdeveloped economies based on unique waste management strategies during the pandemic.
• Review of national waste management policies and guidelines, including adherence to World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.
• Analysis of additional preventive measures implemented beyond international standards.

Main Results:

• Nations generally followed WHO guidelines for managing coronavirus-infected waste.
• Several countries implemented innovative and sustainable waste disposal methods beyond standard protocols.
• Significant variations in policy effectiveness were observed across different economic contexts.

Conclusions:

• While WHO guidelines provide a baseline, country-specific sustainable measures are crucial for effective pandemic waste management.
• The documented strategies offer valuable lessons for global waste management during health crises.
• Adoption of successful national initiatives can enhance global preparedness for similar future events.