Waste Generation Is Growing Non-Stop
According to the World Bank’s report “What a Waste 2.0”, the world generates approximately 2.01 billion tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) annually, which is expected to increase to 3.4 billion tons by 2050. The report notes that waste generation rates are highest in high-income countries, averaging 1.1 kilograms per person per day, while low-income countries generate an average of 0.5 kilograms per person per day. However, the report also notes that the highest annual waste growth rates are occurring in low- and middle-income countries, where urbanization and economic development are driving increased consumption and waste generation.
Our Solutions
As the world’s population continues to grow, waste generation will continue to be a pressing issue. While Reducing and Reusing is always the preferred approach, effective waste management strategies are also needed to minimize the negative impact of waste on the environment. By tackling the largest components like organic waste, agroforestry waste, paper & cardboard, plastics and glass; we can achieve timely impact and improved sustainability. Hweol is dedicated to working closely with communities to design, customize, or upgrade waste management solutions that promote circularity and lead to a cleaner and more sustainable world for future generations.
Projected Waste Generation
Projected Waste Generation
Global Waste Treatment and Disposal Percent
Report highlights the poor waste management practices and the high percentage of waste in landfills
Globally, waste is largely disposed of in landfills, with 33% of waste being disposed of in open dumpsites, which are environmentally hazardous. Only about 13.5% of waste is treated through controlled combustion, while 5.5% is composted. Waste treatment and disposal practices vary significantly by income level, with high-income countries generally having more advanced and environmentally friendly waste management systems. For example, in high-income countries, 25% of waste is incinerated and 34% is recycled, compared to 4% incineration and 6% recycling in low-income countries. However, even in high-income countries, there is still room for improvement, as a significant amount of waste is still landfilled. Improving waste management and increasing recycling rates can lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts, as well as create economic opportunities through the development of new recycling industries.
MSW Composition Percent
By Identifying the waste our solutions can be more impactful
MSW is composed of different types of waste, with organic waste being the largest component, accounting for about 44% of the total waste generated globally. This is followed by wastepaper and cardboard at 17%, plastic at 12%, metal at 8%, glass at 5%, and others at 14%. The composition of waste varies by income level, with low-income countries generating more organic waste, while high-income countries generate more plastic and paper waste. The composition also varies by region, with East Asia and Pacific generating the highest amount of plastic waste, while South Asia generates the highest amount of organic waste.