Conclusions

The existing solid waste system in Bangalore city is effective in carrying out the functions of primary collection and transport. However, there has been a significant problem in realizing the large sustainability goals due to the systems heavily relying on centralized waste treatment and disposal system.  In fact the current payment mode is conducive to showing at least 30% landfilling fraction in the USW collected.  This is not conducive to sustainability as there is no reward for complete recovery of recyclables and fermentables.  On the other hand, with some modifications in the way waste is collected, it is possible to run decentralized, ward-wise or smaller systems that are more sustainable (economically, environmentally and socially), and overcome some of the lacunae faced in the centralized systems.  Decentralized systems of the future can provide greater sustainability but will require a higher level of waste generation and handling discipline.