Chennai's decentralised waste revolution: A community-driven solution

Chennai has long grappled with the daunting task of effectively managing its waste amidst significant challenges. The city's rapid population growth, urban expansion, and increased industrialisation have led to a substantial surge in daily waste generation. In response to these challenges, Chennai embarked on a transformative journey to revamp its waste management strategies. One of the key initiatives was the shift from the traditional tipping fee model to a decentralised waste management approach. Central to this transformation is the widespread adoption of Battery-Operated Vehicles (BOVs), eco-friendly vehicles that have become a common sight in both residential and commercial areas, playing a vital role in waste collection. This innovative system emphasises the importance of source segregation, urging residents to categorise waste into three main types: wet waste, dry waste, and domestic hazardous waste. These segregated waste streams find their way to Micro Composting Centres (MCCs) and Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), while the remaining waste is either incinerated or sent to landfills. The primary goal of this approach is to significantly reduce the amount of waste reaching the landfills in Perungudi and Kodungaiyur. Two concessionaires, Urbaser Sumeet and Ramky Enviro, have taken charge of collecting segregated waste in south and north Chennai respectively. Additionally, the Greater Chennai Corporation oversees waste management in three zones, actively participating in this decentralised system. Crucially, community participation forms the backbone of this decentralised approach. Raising awareness about source segregation and ensuring that different types of waste reach the appropriate facilities remain ongoing challenges in this initiative.