Sustainable waste management policy in Bangladesh for reduction of greenhouse gases

The increased amount of waste generation resulting from urbanization, population growth and improved life-style is a major concern for many developing countries like Bangladesh. A major portion (68–81%) of the urban waste of Bangladesh is composed of food waste, which produce CH₄ as they decompose anaerobically. The trends of waste generation indicate a growing rate of 0.1343 million tonnes per year. This study estimates that greenhouse gases (GHGs) of 1.29 million tonnes CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e) is emitted annually because of composting. This study also estimates that CH₄ generated from existing solid waste is 250.95 million tonnes CO₂e and 2.89 million USD could be saved as part of energy production through recovery of CH₄ from landfill. The existing waste management policy neither includes any waste to energy recovery targets, nor does it explain any recycling or reuse targets. Besides, there are no provisions for incentives for waste minimization. Hence, this study proposes to formulate a comprehensive waste management policy considering reduction of greenhouse gas by reviewing existing laws on waste management system. A policy matrix for waste management has been proposed to overcome the flaws of existing environmental policy and regulatory framework.