Socioeconomic drivers of household waste management in Tamil Nadu, India: policies and practices towards zero waste
摘要
Solid waste management has become an increasingly critical issue in developing countries due to its economic and environmental implications. Among the various dimensions of waste-related research, the management of diverse waste types particularly at the household level has gained significant attention. This study investigates the current status of solid waste generation and management among urban households in Tirupathur district, Tamil Nadu, India. Using a structured interview schedule, primary data were collected from 534 households. Further, regression analysis was used to identify the socioeconomic drivers influencing the generation of biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. The findings reveal that the majority of households generate 4.1 to 6 kg of solid waste per week, with non-biodegradable waste surpassing biodegradable waste in volume. Among biodegradable waste, kitchen waste is the most prevalent, while in biodegradable waste, plastic and sanitary waste are the dominant types. The study highlights the need for localized strategies and offers a more grounded, data-driven approach to urban solid waste governance. The research contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable waste management by providing actionable insights that support the advancement of zero-waste initiatives at the regional level.