A Study on Solid Waste Composition in Kanchanpur District, Nepal

Abstract

Background: Solid waste is a by-product of human activities. It has become an alarming challenge during recent decades in many cities of Nepal. Quantity and characteristics of solid waste have changed as a result of the modification in people’s lifestyle. The purpose of this study is to characterize the composition of solid waste in Bhimdatta Municipality of Kanchanpur district, Nepal.

Methods: In between July to September 2015, a total of 45 households, 15 commercial places, 15 institutions were selected randomly. Solid waste samples were collected in recommended plastic bags. The collected wastes were categorized and weighted. Direct observation of municipal solid waste collection and its disposal practices were also performed. Qualitative information was collected from focus group discussion.

Results: A total of 446.7 kg of solid waste was collected and the highest proportion (66.4%) was organic in composition. In the daily production of overall solid wastes, households were ranked the first (23.3%) and followed to the hotels and lodges (20.4%). The commercial centers produced the highest amount of all types of wastes. The crude waste dumping practice in the open and vacant areas was found a threat to human health, causing ecological imbalances and also bringing land, water, and air pollution.

Conclusions: The rapidly growing population in the urban region of the study area has become an urgent issue in the production of several types of solid wastes. The organic waste was generated in the highest amount and maximum proportions of solid waste were produced from commercial centers.