ASSESSING GLOBAL TRENDS IN MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

Rapid industrial and technological development has significantly improved the quality of life around the world. However, this advancement has also created a significant challenge in terms of waste management and disposal. This issue has become crucial for the 21st century as the rate of waste accumulation is exceeding the rate of urban growth. Since the onset of industrialization, humanity has produced 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic waste. Of this, only 9% has been recycled and 12% incinerated, leaving the majority buried in landfills or simply discarded. This waste causes serious environmental problems, including pollution of air and soil that can lead to health issues such as diarrhea, respiratory disease, and even cancer. In addition, uncontrolled use of natural resources and ineffective environmental management exacerbate the situation, reducing the quality of life of people living near landfills. This study aims to comprehensively assess the epidemiological situation in areas with solid waste landfill sites around the world. Special attention will be given to the investigation of techniques used to mitigate the negative impacts of landfills on human health and the environment. The aim of this review is to carry out a comprehensive analysis of current practices in municipal solid waste management and to evaluate their impact on the environment and public health. The analysis will pinpoint the main obstacles posed by ineffective and outdated methods, and propose solutions to address these issues. This study has practical significance as it can inform the development of strategies to optimize waste management. Findings from this research can form the basis for creating guidelines to improve environmental conditions in regions, enhance legislative and regulatory frameworks for waste management, and raise public awareness of environmental concerns.