CITIZENS' SATISFACTION ON KERALA'S WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THRISSUR CITY

सार

Urbanization has become a global phenomenon with the rapid growth of cities and towns. The process of urbanization brings with it various challenges, including the management of waste generated in urban areas. Kerala, a state located in the southern part of India, is known for its high urbanization rate and has implemented a comprehensive waste management system to address this issue. The state has adopted a decentralized waste management system that focuses on reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. The waste management system in Kerala involves various measures such as source segregation, composting, vermicomposting, biogas generation, and recycling. The state has also adopted the concept of 'Zero Waste’, which aims to reduce waste generation and encourage recycling, and reusing of waste.

Source segregation is a critical component of the waste management system in Kerala. The state has mandated that all households and institutions should segregate waste at the source into dry and wet waste. The dry waste includes items such as plastic, paper, metal, and glass, while the wet waste includes biodegradable waste such as food waste and garden waste. The collected waste is then processed through composting, vermicomposting, or biogas generation, depending on the type of waste. The composting and vermicomposting process involves the conversion of biodegradable waste into nutrient-rich compost, which is then used for agriculture and gardening purposes. The biogas generated from waste is used as a source of energy. In addition to this, Kerala has also implemented a successful e-waste management system, where electronic waste is collected and recycled through authorized recyclers. The success of the waste management system in Kerala can be attributed to the involvement of the community, the support of the government, and the use of innovative technologies. The state has also been successful in creating awareness among the public about the importance of waste management and the need to reduce waste generation.