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Global Waste Management Outlook 2024
The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) has conducted a global assessment of the effectiveness of waste management.
As the authors note, mass production and disposal of waste contributes to a triple crisis: climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss. In 2023, the volume of municipal solid waste amounted to 2.3 billion tons, 38% of which was uncontrolled. Without action, this could increase to 1.6 billion tons by 2050. Waste management costs are expected to increase from $252 billion in 2020 to $640.3 billion.
The dynamics of waste generation and the degree of their impact on the environment depend on three factors.
- Production model: what materials are used and in what quantities, the possibility of their reuse and recycling
- Consumption pattern: citizens' waste management behavior, whether they throw away waste or resort to recycling and reuse
- Development of waste management infrastructure at the local level. UNEP calls for accelerating the transition to a circular economy and decarbonization of production
Experts recommend:
- Using digital data analysis tools to assess current waste management policies and develop priority actions
- Banning environmentally hazardous substances and waste, introducing mechanisms for taxing harmful emissions
- Promoting inclusive and sustainable consumption approaches among the population.
