Assessment of Socio-Economic Conditions of Stakeholders and Their Influence on Municipal Solid Waste Generation in Bengaluru City.

Abstract

The quantity of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in a large metropolitan city like Bengaluru is closely linked to the socio-economic characteristics of various stakeholders, including residents, hotels, marriage halls, industries/companies, and pourakarmikas. MSW quantification is largely an empirical exercise, and the generalization or normalization of average waste generation rates may not always be appropriate, as waste generation in urban areas is influenced by a complex interplay of multiple factors.
The present study provides a comprehensive socio-economic analysis of different categories of stakeholders based on parameters such as gender, age, educational qualification, occupation, income, and other relevant factors associated with MSW generation. Bommanahalli Zone and South Zone of Bengaluru city were selected as the study areas. A total of approximately 500 stakeholders representing five categories were surveyed. The average waste generation rates were estimated as 5 kg/day for residents, 15 kg/day for hotels, 20 kg per function for marriage halls, and 8 kg/day for industries, factories, and companies.
The study highlights that sustainable urban solid waste management can be achieved only through the adoption and integration of best management practices tailored to the socio-economic conditions of stakeholders.