Challenges related to solid waste management in Local Authorities of Sri Lanka (The case of Mawanella Pradeshiya Sabha area)

Abstract

Disposal of solid waste has become an environmental problem in Sri Lanka. This has posed a challenge for waste management. Solid waste management is one of the biggest challenges for Asian countries including Sri Lanka. The main objective of this study is to explore the challenges associated with solid waste management in the Mawanella Pradeshiya Sabha area. Three Grama Niladhari Divisions namely Uthuwankanda, Habbunkaduwa, and Mahawatta have been selected as the sample area in this study. Both primary and secondary data were used for this purpose. The questionnaires, interviews, and observations were used in this study. A sample of 30 households and shops from three Grama Niladhari Divisions were selected for the study. A structured questionnaire and unstructured interviews were used to collect data. When creating a database for data analysis, Microsoft Excel and GIS software were used. Food waste, polythene, plastic, and tin have been considered as waste material in this study. It has been calculated that 500g of waste was generated by a 750g of waste was produced by the shops. Solid waste management practices can reduce waste by 20%- 30% of the household and market waste. People’s attitudes must be changed to achieve this purpose. By educating the community on these issues and by informing the community on the social and environmental impact of waste disposal, these challenges of waste management can be reduced.