Case Study Report

Environmental
ChemistryCase study
on
‘‘SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN CHALISGAON REGION’’
 Case study on
‘‘SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN CHALISGAON REGION’’

DEPARTMENT OF FIRST YEAR ENGINEERING

Submitted By
(NIKHIL RAVINDRA KORE)
(24112035)
(H-2)

Under the Guidance of

Dr. Sanjay R. Kumavat

DEPARTMENT OF
FIRST YEAR ENGINEERING

G.H. RAISONI COLLEGE OFF ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT

JALGAON

2024 - 2025
 G. H. RAISONI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & MANAGEMENT,
JALGAON

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that NIKHIL RAVINDRA KORE , My Roll no. 24112035 and

my Cluster- H Of First Semester of First Year Department of G. H. Raisoni College

of Engineering & Management, Jalgaon has satisfactorily completed the Case Study

on “ Current scenario of chalisgaon taluka region waste generation’ ’ in subject

Environmental chemistry for the academic year 2024-2025.

Place: Jalgaon Roll No:24112035

Date: Exam Seat No: 35

Dr. Sanjay R. Kumavat Prof. Jitendra Wadadkar Dr. Sanjay Shekhavat

(Guided by) (HOD) (Dean)
 ANNEXTURE-I
Suggestive Rubric for Evaluation of a Case Study
(For Environmental Chemistry)

Academic Year: 2024-2025 Program: Bachelor of Technology

(B.Tech)Course: Environmental Chemistry Course Code: UNBSP-102
Semester: Second Name of Faculty: Dr. Sanjay R. Kumavat

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(Dr. Sanjay R. Kumavat) (Prof. Jitendra Wadadkar)
 Log book of a Case Study

Academic Year: 2023-2024 Program: B.Tech

Course: Environmental Chemistry Course Code: UNBSP-102
Semester: Second Name of Faculty: Dr. Sanjay R. Kumavat

Week Discussion & Details Date

No.

1 Discussion on concept of Case Study

2 Finalization of group and Project topic with Case Study proposal

submission
3 Preliminary discussion with guide

4 Information collected

5 Discussion on Progress in project report

6 Solving student queries

7 Rough report writing

8 Final report writing

9 Presentation and oral

10 Final submission with Project report.

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

It is great sense of satisfaction that I represent my real venture on

Environmental Chemistry subject Project Work for First Semester. This report was
undertaken in the project fulfillment of the requirement for “Environmental
Chemistry Subject of Department of First Year Of Engineering, of G. H.
Raisoni College of Engineering and Management, Jalgaon.” I wish to express
my heart full thanks to all those who helped me in completing the Case Study Report.

First of all I would like to thank Prof. Jitendra Wadadkar for providing me
an opportunity to undertake this report under and his valuable advices!

I wish to express my gratitude to Dr. Sanjay R. Kumavat, I am thankful for his

time to time tips and help in every stages of project work.

I wish to express my gratitude to all Subject teachers of their technical and

moral support which was desperately needed during the starting of report. All the
teachers have great source of inspiration for me!

I would like to thank all my friends for helping me when i needed help and
thanks to all those who knowingly or unknowingly helped me.

Thank You!
Name- (Nikhil Ravindra Kore)

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 CONTENT

Title Page No.

CHAPTER 1 2-5
1. Introduction
1.1.Background Of Waste
1.2. About Waste

CHAPTER 2 6-7
2. Methodology OR Review of Literature
2.1 Primary Data Collection
2.2 Secondary Data Collection

CHAPTER 3 8-9
3. Objectives
3.1 Quantitative Analysis of Waste Generation
3.2 Qualitative Evaluation of Waste Management Practices

CHAPTER 4 10-13
4. Materials and Methods OR Discussion OR Data Analysis and Findings
(Used proper you findings)
4.1 Study Area and Sampling Strategy
4.2 Discussion on Waste Generation and Management Practices
4.3 Data Analysis and Findings

CHAPTER 5 14-16

Result OR Summary and Conclusions (Used proper you findings)

References
 FIGURE CONTENT

Sr. No. Figure No. Figure Name Page No.

1 1.1.1. Solid waste Generation of Jalgaon District

2 2.1.2 Other Waste Generation of Jalgaon District

3 2.2.1 Details of Plastic solid Waste Generation

4 2.2.2 Details of Biomedical Solid Waste Generation

5 3.2.1 Action plan for solid Waste Management ( Tables)

6 4.1.1 Solid waste generation of urban local bodies

7 4.1.2 Estimated quantity of plastic waste generation of

district
 ABSTRACT

The issue of waste generation and management has become a critical environmental concern
worldwide, including in semi-urban and rural regions like Chalisgaon Taluka. Located in the Jalgaon
district of Maharashtra, Chalisgaon has been witnessing rapid population growth and urban
expansion, leading to increased waste production. The waste generated in this region is diverse,
including municipal solid waste, agricultural residues, industrial by-products, and hazardous
materials such as e-waste and biomedical waste. While the municipal authorities are responsible for
waste management, inadequate infrastructure, lack of awareness, and improper disposal methods
have exacerbated the challenges.

In recent years, rapid urbanization and changing consumption patterns have contributed to a
significant rise in non-biodegradable waste, including plastics, glass, and metal. Traditional disposal
methods, such as open dumping and burning, continue to be prevalent, leading to severe
environmental and health hazards. Contamination of soil and water bodies due to improper waste
disposal has emerged as a major concern, affecting both the local ecosystem and public health. The
lack of proper segregation at the source further hampers effective waste management, making
recycling and treatment difficult.

Agricultural waste is another pressing issue in the region, as Chalisgaon Taluka is heavily
reliant on farming. Crop residues, pesticide containers, and organic waste from farms contribute
significantly to the waste load. While organic waste has the potential for composting and bioenergy
generation, the absence of structured policies and incentives has limited the adoption of sustainable
practices. Similarly, industrial waste from small-scale manufacturing units and commercial
establishments adds to the growing waste burden, necessitating stricter regulations and better
enforcement of waste disposal norms.

The informal sector plays a crucial role in waste management in Chalisgaon. Many
unregistered waste pickers and recyclers operate in the region, collecting and processing waste
materials such as plastics, metals, and paper. However, their contribution remains largely
unrecognized, and they often work in hazardous conditions without adequate safety measures. The
integration of these informal workers into a formal waste management system could significantly
enhance recycling efforts and improve overall efficiency.

One of the major challenges in Chalisgaon’s waste management is the lack of an efficient
collection and transportation system. While waste collection services exist in certain areas, many
households and businesses continue to dump their waste in open areas or along roadsides due to
irregular collection schedules. The absence of dedicated waste processing facilities, such as
composting plants and material recovery centers, further compounds the problem. Additionally, the
limited financial resources of the local governing bodies hinder large-scale investments in waste
management infrastructure.

1
 CHAPTER 1

1. Introduction
Waste generation is a critical environmental and public health issue in rapidly urbanizing
and semi-urban regions. In Chalisgaon taluka subdivision within Jalgaon district,
Maharashtra the growing population, urbanization, and economic activities have
contributed to increased municipal solid waste (MSW) generation. This report examines
the types, quantities, and management practices of waste produced in the region, with a
focus on municipal waste, biomedical waste (if applicable), and industrial by-products.
It also discusses the challenges faced in waste segregation, collection, and disposal, and
the environmental implications of inadequate waste management practices.

1.1 Background on Waste

Waste is generally defined as any unwanted or unusable material discarded from

households, industrial processes, commercial activities, or agriculture. According to the
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of India, waste refers to solid, liquid, or gaseous
materials that are no longer required by the generator and are considered to have no direct
value in their current form (CPCB).
1. Classification of Waste: Waste can be broadly categorized into several types:
Municipal Solid Waste (MSW): Includes everyday items discarded by the public,
such as food scraps, packaging, and household items.
Industrial Waste: Generated by manufacturing and industrial processes, often
containing hazardous chemicals or by-products.
Biomedical Waste: Arises from healthcare facilities and requires special handling
to prevent the spread of infections and contamination.
Agricultural Waste: Comprises residues from farming activities such as crop
remnants and livestock waste.
E-waste: Discarded electronic appliances and devices that contain potentially
hazardous components.
For further classification guidelines, the United Nations Environment Programme
(UNEP) provides detailed insights into waste types and their environmental impact.
2. Sources and Generation of Waste: Waste is generated from various sectors:
Residential Areas: Household waste is a significant component of MSW and
includes organic matter, plastics, paper, and metals.
Commercial and Institutional Sources: Offices, schools, and hospitalscontribute to
waste generation, often producing mixed waste streams that are challenging to
segregate.
Industrial Activities: Industries contribute a diverse range of wastes, from non-

2
 hazardous manufacturing residues to hazardous chemicals.
Agriculture: Farming operations produce large quantities of organic waste, which,
if not managed properly, can lead to environmental issues such as greenhouse gas
emissions.
3. Environmental and Public Health Implications: The mismanagement of waste can
lead to severe environmental degradation and public health issues. Improper disposal
can result in:
Soil Contamination: Hazardous substances in industrial waste or improperly
disposed chemicals can contaminate soil, affecting agricultural productivity.
Water Pollution: Leachate from landfills or open dumping can infiltrate
groundwater and surface water, posing risks to aquatic ecosystems and drinking
water supplies.
Air Pollution: The incineration of waste, particularly plastics and other non-
biodegradable materials, releases toxic emissions that contribute to air quality
degradation.
Public Health Hazards: Accumulated waste can become breeding grounds for
disease vectors such as rodents and insects, leading to outbreaks of diseases.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has detailed studies on the public health
implications of inadequate waste management.
4. Waste Management Practices: Effective waste management involves the entire
lifecycle of waste from generation to final disposal and includes:
Waste Segregation: Sorting waste at the source into categories such as organic,
recyclable, and hazardous waste is essential to facilitate recycling and proper
disposal.
Collection and Transportation: Efficient systems are needed to ensure that waste is
collected regularly and transported safely to treatment or disposal facilities.
Recycling and Resource Recovery: Materials like plastics, metals, and paper can
often be recycled to create new products, reducing the burden on landfills.
Treatment and Disposal: Technologies such as composting for organic waste,
waste-to-energy conversion, and secure landfills help minimize environmental
impact.
For a comprehensive overview of waste management strategies, refer to the EPA’s
waste management resources.
5. Global and Local Context: While waste is a global challenge, the specifics can vary
significantly between regions. In urbanizing regions like Chalisgaon taluka, rapid
population growth and economic development intensify the challenges of waste
management. Local governments must adapt waste management practices to address
increased waste volumes, often drawing on national guidelines such as those
provided by the CPCB and state pollution control boards.
6. The Role of Policy and Community Participation: Effective waste management is
not solely the responsibility of governmental agencies. It requires active participation
from the community, businesses, and other stakeholders. Policies that encourage
waste reduction, proper segregation, and recycling are essential. Educational
initiatives and public-private partnerships play a pivotal role in fostering sustainable
3
 waste management practices.
7. Emerging Trends and Technologies: With technological advancements, new
methods for waste treatment and recycling are emerging. Innovations such as smart
waste collection systems, automated sorting facilities, and advanced waste-to-energy
plants are being implemented globally to manage waste more efficiently. Such
technologies, if adopted locally, could significantly mitigate the environmental
impact of waste.

1.2 About Waste

A. Major Types of Waste
The waste generated in Chalisgaon Taluka is diverse in composition and can be
broadly classified into the following categories:

1. Biodegradable Waste (Organic Waste)

Food waste (vegetable peels, leftovers, fruit waste)
Agricultural waste (crop residues, animal manure)
Garden waste (grass clippings, leaves, branches)

2. Non-Biodegradable Waste
Plastics (single-use plastics, bottles, packaging materials)
Paper and cardboard (newspapers, books, cartons)
Glass (broken glassware, beverage bottles)
Metals (tin cans, aluminum foil, iron scraps)
E-waste (batteries, old electronics, wires, cables)

3. Hazardous and Biomedical Waste

Medical waste from hospitals and clinics (syringes, expired medicines, gloves,
bandages)
Chemical waste from industries (toxic sludge, solvents, dyes)
Pesticides and fertilizers from agricultural activities.

4. Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste

Bricks, concrete, tiles, and cement debris
Wooden planks, iron rods, and glass sheets.

5. Industrial Waste
Textile and dyeing industry waste
Metal scraps, rubber, plastic, and chemical by-products.

4
B. Key Sources of Waste in Chalisgaon Taluka

1. Residential Areas:
Households generate a mix of biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste.
50-60% of municipal waste comes from homes.

2. Commercial Establishments:
Markets, restaurants, hotels, and small businesses contribute significantly to food
waste, plastic, and paper waste.
Chalisgaon's wholesale vegetable and fruit markets generate large quantities of
organic waste daily.

3. Agricultural and Rural Areas:

Crop residue burning and excessive fertilizer use contribute to environmental
pollution.

4. Hospitals and Healthcare Centers:

Improper disposal of biomedical waste poses severe health hazards.

5. Industries and Small-Scale Manufacturing Units:

Industrial zones in Chalisgaon generate metal, textile, and plastic waste, some of
which is hazardous.

5
 CHAPTER 2

Methodology OR Review of Literature

2.1 Primary Data Collection:

2.1.1 Surveys and Questionnaires:

Objective: Gather data on household and institutional waste generation,
segregation practices, and awareness of waste management protocols.
Design: Structured questionnaires with both closed and open-ended questions.
Sampling: Stratified random sampling to ensure representation across
different urban and semi-urban localities within Chalisgaon taluka.
Data Points: Frequency of waste collection, types of waste generated (organic,
plastic, hazardous), and adherence to segregation practices.

2.1.2 Interviews and Focus Groups:

Objective: Obtain qualitative insights from key stakeholders including
municipal authorities, waste management workers, local businesses, and
residents.
Method: Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to discuss
challenges, successes, and areas for improvement.
Sampling: Purposive sampling to target individuals with in-depth knowledge
about local waste management practices.
Data Points: Perceived effectiveness of current waste management policies,
suggestions for improvement, and personal experiences with waste-related
challenges.
2.1.3 Field Observations:
Objective: Directly observe waste management practices such as
collection, segregation, and disposal methods.

6
 Method: On-site visits to waste collection centers, landfills, recycling
units, and neighborhoods

Data Points: Efficiency of waste collection systems, infrastructure

condition, and adherence to environmental guidelines.
2.2 Secondary Data Collection:
2.2.1 Municipal Records and Reports:
Objective: Obtain historical and current data on waste generation
volumes,composition, and collection schedules.
Sources: Local municipal records, waste management plans, and reports from
the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the Central
Pollution,Control Board (CPCB).
Data Points: Daily/weekly/monthly waste generation statistics, demographic
data, and trends over time.
2.2.2 Academic and Government Publications:
Objective: Contextualize the findings within broader regional and nation
trends.
Sources: Peer-reviewed journals, government white papers, and reports from
international agencies such as the United Nations Environment.
Programme(UNEP).
Data Points: Comparative analyses, best practices, and technological
innovations in waste management.

7
 CHAPTER 3
Objectives

3.1 Quantitative Analysis of Waste Generation.

The first objective of the study is to systematically quantify and analyze the waste
generation characteristics within the Chalisgaon taluka region. This involves:

1. Measuring Waste Volumes:

Collecting detailed data on the daily, weekly, and monthly waste generation from
multiple sources including residential areas, commercial establishments, and local
industries.
Establishing baseline data through municipal records, field surveys, and direct
observations to capture the total amount of municipal solid waste (MSW) produced
in the region.

2. Analyzing Waste Composition:

Breaking down the waste into its various components such as organic waste, plastics,
paper, metals, and hazardous materials, including biomedical and industrial by-
products.
Determining the proportion of each waste category to understand which materials
dominate the waste stream, thereby enabling targeted recycling and management
strategies.

8
9
3. Identifying Sources and Patterns:

Mapping the spatial distribution of waste generation to identify hotspots and areas
with higher waste output.
Evaluating seasonal and demographic variations that influence waste generation,
such as festival periods, agricultural cycles, and population growth trends.

4. Utilizing Statistical Tools:

Employing software like SPSS, R, or Excel to analyze the collected data statistically.
Generating graphs, charts, and maps to visualize trends and patterns, which will help
in comparing local data against regional and national benchmarks.

5. Establishing a Data-Driven Baseline:

Creating a robust dataset that can serve as a baseline for future comparisons and help
in tracking changes over time.
Providing a quantitative foundation that informs local authorities and stakeholders
10
 about the current waste generation scenario.

2.3 Qualitative Evaluation of Waste Management Practices

The second objective focuses on the qualitative aspects of waste management in

Chalisgaon taluka. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of the entire waste
management chain, from collection to disposal, and includes:

1. Assessing Operational Efficiency:

Conducting in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders
such as municipal officials, waste collectors, local business owners, and residents.
Gathering firsthand accounts of the operational challenges faced in waste collection,
segregation, recycling, and final disposal.

2. Evaluating Infrastructure and Policy Implementation:

Examining the current waste management infrastructure, including the availability

and condition of collection vehicles, waste bins, recycling centers, and disposal sites.
Reviewing local policies and comparing them with national guidelines and best
practices from other similar regions to identify gaps and opportunities for
improvement.

3. Identifying Public Awareness and Behavioral Factors:

Understanding the level of public awareness regarding waste segregation and

recycling practices.
Exploring community attitudes and behaviors towards waste management, which can
influence the effectiveness of existing practices.

4. Determining Environmental and Health Impacts:

Analyzing the environmental implications of current waste disposal methods, such as

potential contamination of soil and water resources, and the resultant public health
risks.
Documenting the challenges posed by inadequate waste segregation,
including the mixing of hazardous and non-hazardous materials.

5. Formulating Policy Recommendations:

Synthesizing the qualitative insights to identify critical areas where improvements

are necessary.
Proposing actionable recommendations for policy reforms, infrastructure upgrades,
and community engagement strategies aimed at achieving sustainable waste
management practices in the region.

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12
 CHAPTER 4

Materials and Methods OR Discussion OR Data Analysis and Findings

4.1 Study Area and Sampling Strategy
Location: Chalisgaon taluka, situated in Jalgaon district,Maharashtra,
consists of urban and semi-urban settlements along with surrounding rural
areas.

Sampling Approach:

Stratified Random Sampling was employed to ensure equal representation

from different residential, commercial, and industrial zones.
Households, market areas, hospitals, and industrial zones were surveyed to
understand diverse waste generation patterns.
At least 500 households, 200 commercial establishments, and key waste
disposal sites were selected for study.

Data Collection Techniques:

Field Surveys and Questionnaires

Conducted door-to-door surveys to assess household waste segregation
practices.
Questionnaires focused on waste generation rates, waste segregation
awareness, and waste disposal preferences.

Direct Waste Sampling and Composition Analysis

Random waste samples (5-10 kg) were collected from different
Locations.
Waste was segregated into biodegradable, plastic, paper, glass, metal, e-
waste, and hazardous materials for detailed composition

Interviews and Focus Group Discussions

Semi-structured interviews with municipal authorities, waste
workers, and environmental experts.
Discussions with local NGOs working on waste management
initiatives.
Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Data: Reports from local municipal
bodies were analyzed for trends in waste generation over the five years.
13
Regulatory Framework Review:
Studied Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and Central
Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines on solid waste management.
Satellite Imagery & GIS Mapping: Used GIS tools to analyze landfill site
locations and waste accumulation trends.

Data Processing and Analysis:

Descriptive Statistics were used to measure waste generation

rates,composition percentages, and collection efficiency.
Trend Analysis was conducted using statistical software (SPSS, R) to assess
growth patterns.
GIS Mapping visualized waste hotspots across different regions of
Chalisgaon taluka.

4.2 Discussion on Waste Generation and Management Practices

This section discusses the key findings from data collection and analysis.
Current Waste Generation Trends.

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Daily Waste Production:

The study estimates that Chalisgaon taluka produces 50-60 metric tons of
municipal solid waste (MSW) daily, with urban areas contributing 70% of
the total waste.
On an average, a household generates 500-700 grams of waste per day.

Composition of Waste:
Organic/Biodegradable Waste: 55-60% (food scraps, vegetable peels,
garden waste).
Plastic Waste: 15-20% (single-use plastics, PET bottles, plasticbags).
Paper and Cardboard: 8-10% (newspapers, packaging materials).
Glass and Metal: 3-5%.
E-Waste and Hazardous Waste: 2-3%.
Collection and Segregation Challenges

Inconsistent Waste Collection Mechanism:

The municipal waste collection system covers 60-70% of urban
households, while rural areas lack a structured collection mechanism.
Waste pickup frequency varies from daily in central areas to weekly
or biweekly in outskirts and semi-urban zones.

Low Levels of Waste Segregation:

90% of households and businesses do not segregate waste before
disposal.
Organic, recyclable, and hazardous waste often get mixed, making
efficient recycling difficult.

Lack of Infrastructure and Resources:

The town has only two designated dumping grounds, both nearing
overcapacity.
Absence of proper waste processing units leads to open burning and
illegal dumping.

Environmental and Health Implications

Unregulated waste dumping contaminates local soil and water bodies.
High levels of microplastic contamination were detected in nearby
agricultural fields.
40% of collected waste is burned in open landfills, releasing toxic
gases such as carbon monoxide, dioxins, and furans.
15
 Air pollution contributes to increased respiratory diseases, especially
in children and elderly residents.
Accumulated waste attracts mosquitoes, rodents, and stray animals,
increasing the risk of diseases such as dengue, malaria, and
leptospirosis.

4.3 Data Analysis and Findings

✓ This section presents the analyzed results from the study.

A. Statistical Analysis of Waste Composition
Waste Type Percentage (%) Daily Waste (in tons)
Biodegradable Waste 55-60% 27-36 tons
Plastic Waste 15-20% 7.5-12 tons
Paper Waste 8-10% 4-6 tons
Glass & Metal 3-5% 1.5-3 tons
E-Waste & Hazardous 2-3% 1-1.5 tons

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 ✓ Key Finding: 60% of total waste is biodegradable, indicating a strong
potential for composting initiatives.

B. Waste Management Efficiency Metrics

Urban Semi-Urban Rural
Parameter
(%) (%) (%)
Waste Collection
75-80% 50-60% 30-40%
Rate
Segregation Rate 10% 5% 2%
Recycling Rate 20-25% 10-15% 5-8%

Observation: Only 10% of total waste is effectively segregated, leading to

inefficiencies in recycling and disposal.
Dumping Grounds: 80% of total waste is disposed of in landfills, often unregulated.
Recycling Facilities: Limited recycling occurs due to the absence of formal
recycling plants in the region.
Waste-to-Energy Potential: If properly processed, biodegradable waste can generate
up to 100 kWh of energy per day through composting and biogas generation.

17
 CHAPTER 5

Result

The study of waste generation in Chalisgaon Taluka reveals a concerning trend of

increasing municipal, industrial, and biomedical waste due to rapid urbanization,
population growth, and economic activities. The total municipal solid waste (MSW)
generation in the region is estimated at approximately 50-60 metric tons per day, with
biodegradable waste constituting the majority at around 55-60%, followed by plastics,
paper, metals, and hazardous materials. The per capita waste generation is estimated at
400-600 grams per day in urban areas, while rural areas produce slightly less due to lower
consumption patterns and more organic waste recycling through composting or animal
feed.Waste collection efficiency varies across the taluka, with 60-70% of households in
urban areas covered by municipal waste collection services, while rural areas struggle
with unstructured and irregular waste collection. Despite formal waste collection, only
about 10-15% of waste is segregated at the source, indicating a significant gap in public
awareness and municipal infrastructure. Plastic waste accounts for 15-20% of total waste
generated, a major environmental concern due to its non-biodegradability and improper
disposal methods, such as burning and open dumping. E-waste and hazardous waste
contribute around 2-3% to the total waste stream, with improper handling leading to toxic
contamination of soil and groundwater.

The disposal of waste in Chalisgaon primarily relies on open dumping and

poorly managed landfill sites. Approximately 80% of total collected waste is dumped in
open spaces or landfills, often without treatment or proper containment, leading to
environmental degradation. A significant portion of biodegradable waste is not
composted, which further contributes to methane emissions from landfill decomposition.
Open burning of waste, a common practice in the region, releases harmful pollutants
such as carbon monoxide, dioxins, and furans, exacerbating air pollution and causing
severe health issues, particularly respiratory diseases among children and the elderly.The
environmental impact of waste mismanagement is evident in the contamination of water
bodies, soil degradation, and air pollution. Informal dumping sites have been identified
in several locations, where leachate from decomposing waste seeps into groundwater,
affecting local water quality and increasing health risks. The high volume of plastic waste
has also led to clogging of drainage systems, resulting in increased flooding risk during
monsoon seasons. In rural areas, agricultural waste mismanagement, particularly crop
residue burning, further contributes to air pollution and soil nutrient depletion.

The study also highlights that the recycling rate remains low at 20-25%,
mainly driven by informal waste pickers and private recycling units. There is no
formalized waste treatment infrastructure, such as composting plants, biogas units, or
waste-to-energy plants, limiting the potential for waste recovery and sustainable
management. Despite municipal efforts, there is a lack of strict enforcement of waste
management laws and policies, which allows for the continuation of improper waste
disposal practices.

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Summary

The findings emphasize that waste generation in Chalisgaon Taluka is

increasing, outpacing the capacity of existing waste management infrastructure. The
region produces an estimated 18,000-20,000 metric tons of waste annually, of which a
significant portion remains uncollected or improperly disposed of. The composition
analysis indicates that biodegradable waste dominates the waste stream, yet composting
and organic waste treatment facilities are absent, leading to unnecessary landfilling and
methane emissions.

Plastic waste, accounting for 15-20% of the total waste, is a growing

environmental challenge due to the lack of systematic recycling programs. Most of this
waste either ends up in landfills, is burned, or enters the local water bodies, causing
severe pollution and affecting biodiversity. The low levels of waste segregation at the
source (10-15%) hinder effective recycling and waste recovery, leading to an increased
burden on landfills. The presence of e-waste and biomedical waste, though small in
proportion, raises serious concerns due to inadequate disposal methods, lack of
awareness, and poor regulation enforcement.

Municipal waste collection services are inconsistent and inefficient,

covering only urban and semi-urban areas, while rural regions rely on informal dumping
and open burning. The absence of proper landfill management and scientific waste
treatment solutions has led to severe environmental issues, including air and water
contamination. The impact on public health is evident, with increasing cases of
respiratory diseases, skin infections, and waterborne illnesses due to exposure to
improperly managed waste.

A major concern in waste management is the informal and unregulated

disposal practices observed across Chalisgaon Taluka. Dumping in vacant plots,
roadsides, and near water bodies is common, leading to widespread pollution. The lack
of public awareness, poor enforcement of waste management laws, and insufficient
municipal investment in waste processing infrastructure are key barriers to effective
waste management. The absence of formalized waste-to-energy plants, composting
facilities, and recycling centers limits the region’s ability to harness value from waste
and reduce environmental damage.

19
Conclusion

The waste generation scenario in Chalisgaon Taluka is reaching critical levels, requiring
urgent intervention and sustainable waste management strategies. Increasing population,
urban expansion, and changing consumption habits are driving waste production beyond
the municipality’s capacity to effectively collect, treat, and dispose of it. The reliance on
open dumping, unscientific landfilling, and open waste burning has severe consequences
for air, water, and soil quality, posing risks to both public health and biodiversity.To
address these challenges, immediate reforms are needed in the areas of waste collection,
segregation, treatment, and disposal. Strengthening waste collection systems, ensuring
universal waste segregation at the source, and establishing decentralized waste
processing facilities can significantly improve waste management outcomes.
Composting and biogas generation should be encouraged for organic waste, while plastic
waste management programs must be enforced, including plastic bans, recycling
incentives, and waste-to-energy projects. The formalization of recycling units and the
integration of the informal sector (waste pickers, scrap dealers) into structured waste
management systems can improve recovery rates and reduce environmental damage.
Municipal authorities need to invest in scientific landfill management with
leachate treatment systems and methane recovery technologies to minimize pollution.
Policies should focus on enhancing public awareness about waste segregation and
responsible disposal practices, encouraging community participation in sustainable
waste initiatives. Implementing stringent regulations against illegal dumping,
incentivizing sustainable waste management practices, and introducing Extended
Producer Responsibility (EPR) for industries can significantly improve the current waste
scenario.
The role of local governance, NGOs, educational institutions, and the private
sector is crucial in transforming Chalisgaon into a waste-smart region. Public-private
partnerships (PPPs) should be explored to set up modern waste processing facilities,
promote recycling industries, and develop waste-to-energy projects. Encouraging
household-level composting, banning single-use plastics, and promoting eco-friendly
alternatives can help reduce waste at the source, easing the burden on waste collection
and disposal systems.Addressing the waste crisis in Chalisgaon Taluka requires a multi-
faceted approach involving policy reforms, infrastructure development, technological
innovations, and community engagement. Without immediate and structured
intervention, the environmental and public health consequences will continue to escalate,
leading to irreversible damage. However, by implementing integrated waste
management solutions, improving enforcement of waste regulations, and fostering a
culture of sustainable consumption, Chalisgaon can significantly reduce its waste
footprint and work toward a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future

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References:
1) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
2) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
3)Google.com

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