What are the key principles of Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM)? Discuss the role of waste hierarchy in ISWM.
In short
Integrated Solid Waste Management combines segregation, collection, processing and disposal with institutional capacity, regulation, stakeholder participation and reliable data, backed by the 2016 Solid Waste Management Rules and Extended Producer Responsibility. The waste hierarchy guides it: prevent first, then reuse, recycle and recover energy, with landfilling only for residue.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 266 words
Multi-tier Governance and Legal Support
ISWM requires coordination among central, state, and local bodies; the 2016 Solid Waste Management Rules, Swachh Bharat Mission2 (Urban), and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines3 provide regulatory backing. Andhra Pradesh’s 2022 audit found only 5 of 17 ULBs had bye-laws aligned with SWM Rules, showing institutional gaps.
Capacity Building and Data Monitoring
Training municipal staff and integrating informal waste pickers, who collect over 10,000 tonnes daily nationally, are crucial; however, Andhra Pradesh’s segregation rates were overstated (claimed 98.17%4, actual ~75%), indicating weak monitoring.
Infrastructure Deficits
82 of 123 ULBs in Andhra Pradesh lacked wet waste processing plants, and only 4 had sanitary landfills in 2022, forcing reliance on harmful open dumpsites.
Prioritising Prevention and Recycling
Waste minimisation and reuse reduce environmental impact; ISWM integrates informal sector recycling to maximise resource recovery.
Energy Recovery and Disposal
Waste-to-energy reduces landfill volume but requires pollution control; landfilling is last resort for inert waste.
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