Integrating MDGs in the Formulation of Strategies for Solid Waste Management – A Life Cycle Approach

Abstract

The state of solid wastes in most of the developing countries is a major threat to both human and environmental resources. One of the reasons why there is little progress being made is a lack of clear objectives, coupled with a lack of information and of a strong analytical base in which various policies and strategies can be formulated or aligned during the decision making processes. This study, a case study for Nairobi, Kenya aimed at bridging this gap by providing a methodological approach in which Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) can be aligned with SWM strategies. Performance indicators were used to relate SWM to MDGs and to compile impacts data of the ten identified SWM options. The Baseline showed a low contribution towards achievement of MDGs while Option 10 (17% recycling, 63% composting and 20% landfilling) showed the highest contribution. Option 5 (15% recycling, 15% composting and 70% landfilling) provided the most feasible approach for meeting the MDGs, given the present social-economic, legal, political and administrative conditions of the study area.