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India's rivers are essential for providing fresh water for human sustenance, but their water quality has deteriorated due to pollution from industrial waste, domestic sewage, agricultural runoff, and more. Parameters such as physical, chemical, biological, and intended use criteria are used to assess water quality. Water quality monitoring is crucial for preserving freshwater resources and human health, and integrating IoT and AI has revolutionized environmental monitoring. However, India faces challenges in accessing remote locations for monitoring and a lack of manpower. To address these challenges, real-time monitoring systems and remote sensing technologies should be implemented, and wastewater treatment facilities should be upgraded. Public awareness campaigns on responsible consumption and waste disposal practices are also needed. Strengthening and enforcing regulatory measures to limit pollutant discharge and addressing deforestation and improper land use practices are essential. A comprehensive law on environmental protection is necessary for meaningful enforcement and responsibility within society. By addressing these challenges and adopting innovative solutions, India can safeguard its water resources and ensure a sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most coal in India originates from the Korb basin (Chhattisgarh), where coal mines, thermal power, and aluminum plants operate. Groundwater in this region faces severe pollution due to land reclamation, leaching of coal‐related contaminants, waste disposal, and industrial effluent seepage. This work presents results from monitoring groundwater pollution in the Korba basin from 2012 to 2017. Fluoride, aluminum, manganese, and iron levels exceeded acceptable quality limits across all 28 studied locations, with excessive nitrate, magnesium, calcium, and lead levels in specific sites. Tracking seasonal and temporal fluctuations in the most polluted site, namely Kudurmal, revealed peak solute concentrations during the monsoon period and a sustained 18% increase during the study period. Factorial analysis suggests groundwater contamination arises from both human activities and natural sources. These findings underscore the urgent necessity of devising remediation strategies for the drinking water supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Catastrophic health expenditures condensed the vital concern of households struggling with notable financial burdens emanating from elevated out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures. In this regard, this study investigated the nature and magnitude of inpatient healthcare expenditure in India. It also explored the incidence and determinants of inpatient catastrophic health expenditure. Methodology: The study used the micro-level data collected in the 75th Round of the National Sample Survey on 93 925 households in India. Descriptive statistics were used to examine the nature, magnitude and incidence of inpatient healthcare expenditure. The heteroscedastic probit model was applied to explore the determinants of inpatient catastrophic healthcare expenditure. Results: The major part of inpatient healthcare expenditure was composed of bed charges and expenditure on medicines. Moreover, results suggested that Indian households spent 11% of their monthly consumption expenditure on inpatient healthcare and 28% of households were grappling with the complexity of financial burden due to elevated inpatient healthcare. Further, the study explored that bigger households and households having no latrine facilities and no proper waste disposal plans were more vulnerable to facing financial burdens in inpatient healthcare activity. Finally, the result of this study also ensure that households having toilets and safe drinking water facilities reduce the chance of facing catastrophic inpatient health expenditures. Conclusions: A significant portion of monthly consumption expenditure was spent on inpatient healthcare of households in India. It was also conveyed that inpatient healthcare expenditure was a severe burden for almost one fourth of households in India. Finally, it also clarified the influence of socio-economic conditions and sanitation status of households as having a strong bearing on their inpatient healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selection of the appropriate composting system, climate conditions, and duration of the composting process are important parameters for municipal solid waste composting. Therefore, this research aimed to design, test, and evaluate two different static composting systems under two different climate regions, Palestine and India, following a multi-criteria approach. A forced-aeration composting system was designed for use in Palestine, and a naturally aerated one was used in India. Three experiments were conducted, two of them in Palestine and one in India. The operational parameters were controlled and monitored during the composting process, while the physio-chemical and biological parameters were tested to evaluate the compost end quality. The results showed that both systems provide good efficiency toward formation of final compost (39–43 days in Palestine, and 31 days in India), and the average materials' volume reduction was almost 60%. The physio-chemical analysis showed that most of the parameters comply with the threshold limits specified by the Palestinian Standards Institution (PSI) and Indian Fertilizer Control Order (FCO) except for minor deviations. Both systems provided a high fertility index (4.3, 4.7, and 4.8), and a high clean index (4.6, 5.0, and 4.7). However, the results of the biological parameters showed that all the experiments met PSI, but none of them met FCO, suggesting that the outer edges of the composting system didn't heat enough to inactivate pathogenic microbes, therefore, developing the system by adding turning option could overcome this shortcoming. It was concluded that the forced aeration system is suitable for Palestine, while the natural aeration system is suitable for India. Implications: Municipal solid waste management is facing technical and financial challenges worldwide due to the increasing generation of solid waste following the population growth. The current improper management of this waste stream through landfilling is adding pressure on the environment as a result of methane emissions and landfill leachate. Therefore, composting of the organic fraction through selection of an appropriate composting system can solve many waste management problems and contribute to environmental sustainability. This research focuses on design, test and evaluate two composting systems in two regions with different climatic conditions, Palestine and India as both are facing waste management problems. The outcome of this research optimized the composting process which can be replicated and scaled up in other countries worldwide with similar climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the performance of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA/RSA) available in Agartala, Tripura (north-eastern regions of India), was studied in reinforced concrete members subjected to a severe artificially induced corrosive environment. The performance test was based on the non-destructive and destructive parameters of concrete. Due to the scarcity of normal stone aggregate (NSA) in this region, studying the effect of using such type of aggregate in reinforced concrete members help not only to mitigate the demand but also assists in waste management. The study also presents an innovative application of micro-bend opticalfibre sensors for corrosion monitoring and validated using other non-destructive instruments. The study presents an effective application of the micro-bend optical fibre sensor to predict the initiation of corrosion (de-passivation) and initiation of cracking (critical stress) due to corrosion in reinforced concrete specimens. Later, the results were validated using half-cell potentiometer and electrical strain gauge values. The specimen also presented different mechanical and durability properties with varying RCA percentages. A regression model to predict mechanical properties and corrosion amount (hoop strain) in reinforcement for different RCA-replaced concrete has been presented. The sorptivity and other porosity-related results were also presented for different RCA replacement percentage specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the growing population and advancing economy, medical waste accumulation has come to the attention of all facets of society. Although the issue of medical waste management planning has been addressed in developed nations, it still exists in several developing nations. This paper examines the effects of barriers under the Organization action, work handling, and Human Resource Practices section on the healthcare waste management (HCWM) sector in a developing country India. In this study, three hypotheses were constructed and tested using Structural equation modeling. The questionnaire was distributed among 200 health professionals to collect their responses. Ninety-seven responses were received, and 15 barriers were identified affecting the healthcare waste management sector. The results show that all three barriers (i.e., Organizational, Waste handling, and Human resources) hinder the Healthcare waste management sector. Organizational Barriers are the most significant among other barriers. So, the hospitals have to take appropriate actions to overcome these barriers. This paper helps to complete the research gap by providing the different characteristics of barriers. The development of a model for the analysis of barriers influencing HCWM is the Author's original contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study addresses the challenging task of estimating toxic concentration in soils, focusing on Tirupur District, Tamilnadu, India, utilizing Landsat 8 imagery. Acknowledging the potential environmental repercussions, the research emphasizes the increase in pollution—air, water, and soil—due to toxic concentrations, particularly heavy metals resulting from industrial activities. Soil pollution, a consequence of rapid industrial development near water sources, is a key concern, exacerbated by improper waste disposal. Utilizing Landsat 8 OLI images and relevant soil standards, the study employs Kriging and regression analysis for mapping heavy metal concentrations in the soil, both through remote sensing and field data. The correlation between remote sensing and in-situ data enhances result reliability. The findings categorize soil samples from 17 locations in Tirupur District based on pollution levels, distinguishing regions as highly polluted, not polluted, or moderately polluted. This research contributes valuable insights into the spatial distribution of heavy metal pollution, offering a foundation for targeted environmental management strategies in the identified regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of healthcare sector, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, has augmented the emission of healthcare waste globally. The healthcare waste is a major concern for developing economies like India instead of developed ones due to ineffective waste management systems. However, the circular economy is a proven approach to efficient waste management. Thus, this study has recognised and prioritised the criticality of critical success factors for the adoption of a circular economy in Indian healthcare to minimise waste generation. Initially, an analysis of variance followed by questionnaire surveys and descriptive statistics is executed to identify the substantial differences in the adoption of circular economy in healthcare having different sizes or domains of expertise. Finally, the interpretive structural modelling embedded fuzzy-decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory method is used to identify the most significant critical success factors for adopting a circular economy in health care. Among 17 finalised critical success factors, 12 are identified in a causal group, while the remaining five are in the effect group. The government's responsibility and stakeholders' participation have the highest driving potential, whereas the segregation and collection of healthcare waste 1depend highly on other causal-critical success factors. This study also shows the suitable extent to Indian policymakers for developing strategies and assigning the resources and efforts to enhance the adoption of a circular economy in health care from an Indian perspective. However, the results obtained are India-specific, but this can be a platform to understand and analyse the adoption of a circular economy in health care for other developing economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper covers the plastic recycling and disposal process which is carried out by chemical and the mechanical means where several technologies and steps are involved. India and the world have witnessed substantial growth both in the production and consumption of plastics. In absence of appropriate waste collection and segregation processes, the management of waste especially for the discarded plastic used for packaging has become a challenging task. Growing plastic pollution is affecting ecosystem as well as human health. This paper provides an overview to of all the challenges due to plastic pollution, for recycling and disposal, ways to mitigate, interplay of plastic recycling and disposal and awareness among the humans over the globe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study in Kerala aimed to investigate the perceptions and behaviours of 430 respondents towards household waste generation and management. The survey outcomes were used to determine the personal attributes, awareness and perceptions of the people towards solid waste management. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to identify the possible correlation between the personal attributes of respondents and their awareness and perceptions. The results showed that most participants fell within the age range of 20– 60; majority of them were graduates having an income above Rs 40,000. Food waste was found to be the predominant type of waste generated, about 65%. Over 50% of the respondents considered waste as a resource. The study also revealed that education plays a crucial role in addressing waste management problems. Almost 85% of the respondents supported imposing penalties for open dumping of waste and 63% supported composting of domestic waste. Respondents showed a growing willingness to act against improper waste management and disposal. Thus, the study brings out the importance of education and awareness programmes in shaping individuals’ perspectives towards waste management and reducing waste generation as well as highlights the need for an all-inclusive strategy for effective solid waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assesses the viability of recycled plastic-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for sustainable energy harvesting in India and Singapore, concurrently examining plastic waste management. Using material flow analysis and life cycle assessment, the findings revealed that in Singapore, waste-to-energy incineration has a lower environmental impact than landfilling and mechanical recycling, attributed to natural gas usage. In India, recycling offsets impacts from incineration and landfilling, contributing to a lower net environmental impact. Economic performance of a TENG module from PET recyclates showed a 20% carbon footprint reduction when scaling up from lab to industrial "freeze-drying" processes. Key challenges in TENG manufacturing processes are also assessed for future development. This research highlights the potential of recycled plastic-based TENGs in sustainable energy and waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poor management process and negligent waste disposal practices from textile and dye industries lead to severe environmental menace. At present, industrial effluent disposal treatment uses physical and chemical approaches. Hence, an investigation was conducted using potent and native microbial isolates from untreated wastewater released from textile industries in the Sanganer area of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Eleven competent bacterial strains, which showed potential degradation efficiency, were screened from these two random discharge sites of textile effluent. The study also developed bacterial consortia 1 (DB1-DB7), which showed a maximum of 87%, and consortia 2 (DR1-DR4), which established a minimum decolorization of 65%. The biochemical analysis and 16S rDNA sequencing were investigated, suggesting that potent organisms and their consortium belong to Bacillus and Pseudomonas spp. In the future, the exploitation of these species would scale up for a safe and efficient bioremediation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"The present Prime Minister of India Launched the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA) on 2 October 2014, the largest program on sanitation by the Government of India till date. SBA aims to make India Open Defection Free (ODF) through construction of individual, cluster and community toilets, to keep the villages clean, with solid and liquid waste management through Gram Panchayat." (Sinha & Sinha, 2016). Launched by the Indian government in 2014, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) is a massive endeavour to address the nation's long-standing waste management concerns. The effectiveness, difficulties, and room for development of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan's impact on India's waste management system are the main topics of this review paper's critical analysis. By means of an extensive examination of extant literature, official reports, and empirical studies, the purpose of this review is to offer an understanding of the successes and constraints of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in terms of revolutionizing waste management methods across the country. The campaign's effects on public health, environmental sustainability, socioeconomic development, and waste collection, segregation, recycling, and disposal are important topics of research. Inadequate infrastructure, financial limitations, behavioural hurdles, and the requirement for more robust regulatory frameworks are among the issues covered in the review. It also suggests ways to improve the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan's efficacy and sustainability, like as capacity-building programs, technological advancements, community involvement, and regulatory changes. This review paper adds to a better understanding of the intricate dynamics of waste management in India by synthesizing previous research and empirical data. It also offers insightful information to practitioners, policymakers, and researchers who are working to address the urgent environmental and public health problems related to waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating issue of microplastic (MP) pollution poses a significant threat to the marine environment due to increasing plastic production and improper waste management. The current investigation was aimed at quantifying the MP concentration on 25 beaches on the Maharashtra coast, India. Beach sediments (1 kg) were collected from each site, with five replicates to evaluate the extent of MPs. The samples were homogenized, and three 20 g replicas were prepared for subsequent analysis. Later, the samples were sieved, and MPs were extracted using previously published protocols. The abundance of MPs found as 1.56 ± 0.79 MPs/g, ranges from 0.43 ± 0.07 to 3 ± 0.37 MPs/g. Fibers were found as the most abundant shape of MPs. Size‐wise classification revealed dominance of <1 mm and 1–2 mm‐sized MPs. Blue‐ and black‐colored MPs were recorded dominantly. Polymer identification of MPs revealed polyurethane, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylic or polymethyl methacrylate, and rubber. The findings revealed that MPs were found to be higher at highly impacted sites, followed by moderately impacted sites and low‐impacted sites, possibly due to a different degree of anthropogenic pressure. The study recommended the urgent need for effective policy to prevent plastics accumulation in the coastal environment of Maharashtra State, India. Practitioner Points: The study investigated the abundance and distribution of microplastics in the marine environment, specifically in sediments.The most common type of microplastic found was fibers, followed by fragments and films.Microplastics were found to pose a potential risk to the marine ecosystem, although further research is needed to fully understand their ecological impact.Future research should focus on expanding the sample size, assessing long‐term effects, exploring sources and pathways, and considering size and shape of microplastics.The findings recommended urgent action to mitigate plastic pollution in Maharashtra coast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With ever-improving social and medical awareness about menstrual hygiene in India, the demand for sanitary napkins has increased significantly. The utilization of high-quality and environment-friendly raw materials to produce these pads is further supporting the growth of the market. However, with improving demand and usage, the need for proper disposal techniques becomes more relevant, since all of these pads get contaminated with human blood which makes them a biohazard and can cause significant damage to human health and the environment. One sanitary pad takes around 800 years to degrade naturally and the plastic and super absorbent polymers (SAPs) in sanitary pads are non-biodegradable and can take multiple decades to degrade. Waste management technologies such as pyrolysis, gasification, and resource recovery can be adopted to manage tons of sanitary waste. Currently, sanitary waste treatment mainly focuses on landfilling, incineration, and composting, where biohazard wastes are mixed with tons of solid waste. Disposable sanitary pads have a high carbon footprint of about 5.3 kg CO2 equivalent every year. Innovative solutions for sanitary pad disposal are discussed in the manuscript which includes repurposing of derived waste cellulose and plastic fraction into value-added products. Future aspects of disinfection strategies and value addition to waste cellulose recovered from napkins were systematically discussed to promote a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral reef ecosystems are highly sensitive to pollution from marine debris, especially if the regions are noted for tourism and fishing. Palk Bay on the south east coast of India is a famous tourist and fishing region, where the marine debris accumulation poses a great threat to the coastal ecosystem.In this study during 2018–2020, the marine debris distribution and their interactions with coral reefs of Palk Bay were monitored from five stations. Derelict fishing gears (DFGs), including ropes (51 ± 2%) and fishing lines (43 ± 2.5%), were the dominant debris forms recorded.Among the reef‐forming corals, Acropora sp. colonies experienced maximum physical injury and mortality from DFG entanglement. Plastic materials and anchors caused considerable physical damage and tissue loss in Porites sp, without any mortality.Manual debris removal as a potential debris management method was assessed by regularly removing the accumulated debris from the test reef locations of all five stations, whereas the control reef locations were left undisturbed. Test reef locations showed a significant increase in live coral cover and coral recruit density in 2020, against that in 2018, compared with the control locations. Continuous accumulation and interaction of marine debris with the coral colonies of control reef locations resulted in significant reduction of live coral cover and coral recruit density at the control reef locations.This study illustrates the impact of unsustainable fishing and other anthropogenic activities such as tourism and waste disposal on coral reef ecosystems like Palk Bay. The findings of this study demonstrates that manual removal of debris is an important strategy for marine debris management in coral reef ecosystem. Considering the importance of coral reefs in the livelihood of the coastal communities, it is important to tackle the marine debris issue through regular debris removal with stakeholder participation, awareness campaigns and strict legal and management measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of India's population has presented the country with various challenges regarding the exponential growth of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW). Globally, the increasing volumes of rubbish have made waste management both environmentally and socially burdensome. The development of safe and renewable resources has assisted in municipal solid waste management. Garbage-to-energy conversion has proven to be an effective method for reducing municipal waste. Biofuel and biogas generation from municipal solid waste are among the renewable energy possibilities within the broader framework of waste management. The review examines sustainable treatment methods for managing municipal waste. It provides an overview of the characteristics and environmental impacts of municipal solid waste. To enhance energy generation, pretreatment approaches have been integrated into waste conversion processes. The review underscores the significance of thermal and biological conversion-based approaches to municipal waste management. Biological treatment technologies have emerged as a significant focal point for energy recovery while maintaining environmental sustainability. Additionally, the review assesses the applicability of various Indian policies for Municipal Solid Waste Management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to solve the problem of healthcare waste management in developing countries. The buildup of medical waste has attracted the attention of all spheres of society due to the expanding population and developing economy. Timely collection and processing of medical waste are extremely important due to its potential hazards. Although the problem of planning medical waste management has been addressed in developed countries, it persists in several developing countries. This research is motivated by an example of a city in India characterized by a dense population, abundant health-care facilities and a lack of planning for managing large medical waste generated daily. Design/methodology/approach: The authors address the problem of designing the network of collection and processing facilities for medical waste and optimizing the vehicle route that collects and transfers the waste between facilities. Due to distinct topographic restrictions in the considered city, the collection and transfer process needs to be conducted in two echelons – from hospitals to collection centers using smaller vehicles and then to the processing facilities using trucks. This work addresses these two problems as a two-echelon location-routing problem. Findings: A mixed-integer programming model is developed to minimize the cost of opening the facilities and transporting medical waste. Several managerial insights are drawn up to assist planners and decision-makers. Originality/value: This study follows a case study approach to provide a descriptive and prescriptive approach to hospital waste management in the ancient city of Varanasi. The city has witnessed unplanned growth over the years and is densely populated. The health-care facilities in the city have a large catchment area and attract patients from neighboring districts. The situation analysis based on secondary data and unstructured interviews of the stakeholders suggests that the ad hoc approach prevails in present hospital waste management in the city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is perceived as a global issue regardless of the place of waste generation. The amount of unmanaged waste is increasing rapidly, along with its impact on the environment and human health. In hilly areas, specifically the North Eastern Region (NER) states of India, due to the unique topography coupled with socio-economic factors, there are inadequate waste management practices marked by insufficient infrastructure, minimal research studies, and limited data availability. This paper comprehensively reviews the existing status of MSWM practices and waste treatment technologies, identifies the challenges, and discusses the prospective approaches for MSWM in NER states of India. NER, is characterized by its hilly terrain and has the most diverse demographic profile in the country. The study highlights the notable increase in waste generation in the urban population in NER. The total amount of waste generated in NER is about 2907 tons per day, with a collection rate of 86.96%, treatment at 31.09%, and landfilling at 33.67%. The biodegradable fraction makes up the majority of waste composition (more than 50%) in NER, followed by recyclables and inert. The existing MSWM consists of waste collection, transportation, and disposal with limited source segregation and treatment. All the states of NER practice open dumping and burning as the primary waste treatment and disposal system. The study discusses the challenges and prospects to ensure effective MSWM in NER. This review is a region-specific study that considers cultural diversity, topography, and socio-economic dynamics. The outcome of this review will be helpful to the researchers and policymakers in making appropriate waste management plans and improve the MSWM system in NER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on Lave's theorisation of situated learning, this article engages with skills in the so-called 'unskilled' domain of waste work. Waste work involves handling diverse material discards, from household vegetable peelings, metal and plastic scraps, to human and animal faecal material and corpses. In India, forms of waste work are toxic, historically stigmatised, burdened on Dalit and Adivasi bodies, and officially categorised as 'unskilled' work. Based on fieldwork in a town in central India, the paper draws attention to skills in waste work, documenting social practices that involve processes of learning and acquiring skills. Analysing institutions that mediate skill acquisition in waste work, the paper argues that 'skilled' work is politically and socially constructed and materially contingent. The article destabilises reified notions of how work gets classified as '(un)skilled'. Further, the paper reflects on the conflicts and paradoxes that a conversation on skills in waste work throws up: valuing and recognising different forms of waste work while also pointing to their toxicities and struggles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal solid waste generation in India is increasing as a result of rapid urbanisation and a growing population. Due to gaps in the existing waste collection, treatment and recovery methods, large-scale unscientific disposal and lesser waste recovery have been observed. Insufficient source segregation, unorganised efforts, less awareness and indifference towards malpractice, and a lack of strict implementation were identified as the causes through literature review, surveys and interviews, Therefore, there is a need for a system of interventions, which organises efforts toward waste management and reduces the tolerance for source segregation errors. This paper aims to provide a solution that increases community participation and prevents the generation of mixed waste to ensure waste recovery. The proposed framework integrates municipal solid waste, human elements, and technology into an intelligent app-based system. This includes a smart bin that segregates waste at the source through image classification and an application for communication and data collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid urban population growth, the urbanization of poverty, and the proliferation of slums are being driven to a great extent by this dynamic form of globalization. Consequently, the multifaceted effects of globalization on the poor and low-income populations in the cities need to be better understood in this context, both at the individual level and within the community. Therefore, the present study was conducted to highlight the various determinants affecting the lives and enhancing the vulnerability of the dwellers of four slum settlements present in various areas of Jammu City, India. Emphasis was made to integrate biological, physical, social, and spatial facets of vulnerability to understand the complex dynamics of urban areas in developing countries. A descriptive survey design was used for questions concerning the social and environmental aspects. Social aspects including age, sex, education, religion, caste, profession, and family income that correspond to social stratification acted as baseline information, while both indoor and outdoor environments such as housing conditions, sanitation, personal habits, solid waste disposal, disaster proneness, and air and water pollution problems were taken into consideration to assess the environmental aspect. Results indicated that the slum settlement has a migratory population with permanent or temporary settlements. The status of education and skill level is poor which results in poor economic development and social well-being of the dwellers in slums. The study also identified vulnerability of the population on social and environmental front which could result into severe health issues. The study concluded and recommended policy planning specified for slums for uplifting such unprivileged populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Up to one third of the food that is purposely grown for human sustenance is wasted and never consumed, with adverse consequences for the environment and socio-economic aspects. In India, managing food waste is a significant environmental concern. Food waste output is increasing in Indian cities and towns as a result of the country's urban expansion, modernization, and population growth. Poor management of food waste can have negative consequences for the environment and pose a risk to the public's health issues. This review focuses on the current challenges, management strategies, and future perspectives of food waste management in India. The efficient management of food waste involves a comprehensive study regarding the characterization of food waste and improved waste management methods. In addition, the government policies and rules for managing food waste that is in effect in India are covered in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discharge of industrial effluents has a significant impact on the Water Quality Index (WQI) of the water bodies and is a major source of contamination of groundwater. The present study investigated the physicochemical characteristics and scrutinized the pollution potential of the tannery, textile, and electroplating effluents uploading into the Kala Sanghian drain, located in Jalandhar, Punjab, India. In this study, 12 samples were collected from the four sites (leather complex drain (LD), leather complex outlet (LO), focal point drain (FD), and Bulandpur drain (BD)) of Kala Sanghian drain in the dry season. The result showed that the drain under consideration is very much contaminated and the water is not suitable for irrigation and agricultural purposes. Rather it has a bad impact on the health of local people, the physiology of aquatic organisms, and the soil quality of agricultural land nearby. The present study confirmed the water quality index was more than 100, indicating a highly contaminated drain and water is unfit for any use. The correlation analysis shows that there exists a positive correlation between TDS and temperature (r = 0.994), DO and pH (r = 0.808), BOD and temperature (r = 0.987), BOD and TDS (r = 0.978), EC and temperature (r = 0.963), EC and TDS (r = 0.954), and EC and BOD (r = 0.956). The principal component analysis (PCA) confirms that PC1 alone has more than 89% of the variance with high positive loading for TDS, temperature, EC, and BOD. The hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) reflected two clusters where cluster 1 consists of pH, DO, temperature, and BOD of water while cluster 2 consists of TDS and EC of water. The PCA and HCA study of the data set confirms the high degree contribution of anthropogenic activities through the application of chemicals in agriculture, disposal of municipal waste, and industrial effluents in the deterioration of water quality. The results of the study will help to enhance the sustainable action plan for the management of industrial effluents in the studied area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the feasibility of utilizing Waste Brick Powder (WBP) and fly ash as substitutes for cement in concrete, addressing growing environmental concerns and waste accumulation from demolition activities in India. The partial replacements of cement with 10%, 15%, and 12.5% fly ash, alongside 10%, 15%, and 12.5% WBP in M25-grade concrete, are investigated over a 7-day curing period. The compressive strength is evaluated as the primary parameter, while specific gravity tests are conducted to analyze material properties. The study aims to assess the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of incorporating fly ash and WBP in concrete production. The results reveal the influence of varying fly ash and WBP proportions on concrete strength, with the optimized mix of 12.5% fly ash and 12.5% waste brick powder demonstrating superior strength properties compared to conventional concrete. This blend demonstrates practical feasibility and potential for widespread adoption in construction applications. This study underscores the sustainable utilization of industrial by-products, aligning with eco-conscious construction practices and contributing to reduced carbon emissions. This paper provides insights for the construction industry in India, offering a solution to waste management challenges while enhancing the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of concrete production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population and industrial growth have spiked product consumption, which in turn have caused an abrupt rise in municipal solid waste (MSW) production. Due to the lack of resources allocated to waste management, municipal inorganic solid waste (ISW) has increased exponentially, posing a significant strain on the environment and health. To mitigate these issues, sustainable waste management strategies need to be implemented to reduce environmental impacts and improve waste collection and disposal efficiency. The objective of our work was to analyse and identify the most effective techniques for disposing of ISW in India by employing multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM). This technique entails selecting the most suitable alternative based on a variety of competing and interactive criteria. A fusion decision model named the FULL COnsistency Method (FUCOM) and Multi-Attributive Border Approximation area Comparison (MABAC) based on the interval-valued q-rung orthopair fuzzy (IV q-ROF) was developed. Finally, a comparative analysis was performed to demonstrate the system's robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Almost 70% of women residing in urban areas and 48% of women in rural areas use sanitary napkins in India. According to menstrual health alliance India (MHAI), single sanitary pad will take about 500-800 years to decompose as the plastic used in manufacturing is nonbiodegradable and causes severe noxious effects contributing to global warming through the production of planet warming fuels which eventually have severe impact on environment sustainability. Hence, the study was undertaken to contribute the evidence for the "Clean and Green India". Aim: To know the perception and practice of disposal of sanitary napkins among young college-going females in India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted throughout the country employing a self-administered questionnaire using a survey link sent through social media. Data collected were analyzed and interpreted using SPSS version 20.0. Result: The study population comprised 484 young college girls with a mean age of 20.92 ± 1.86 years and 96.9% of them are using sanitary napkins as menstrual absorbent aids. The most common method employed for the disposal of sanitary napkins was dumping them in the bin (87.4%). About 63.2% of them had no knowledge about sanitary napkin-burning machines. Around 92% think that improper disposal of sanitary napkins can cause health problems. Conclusion: The findings from the study revealed that a significant number of women were practicing noneco-friendly disposal methods and menstrual hygiene aids which are a bane to the ecosystem. Study warrants the education and training of females to achieve a green and clean sustainable India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research pinpoints the primary socio-economic issues and inherent circumstances of rural development in Himachal Pradesh, India. It provides a critical analysis of 289 households based on the surveys conducted in 5 villages of Sirmaur district, adopted under the UBA ('Unnat Bharat Abhiyan', transl. 'Developed India initiative'). This study highlights and evaluates the significant socio-economic concerns and rural development challenges based on key factors such as population, education, employment, rural development schemes, livestock assets, property distribution, essential services and transport connectivity. The findings from this study are crucial for identifying priority areas for community capacity building and sustainable rural development including literacy rates, healthcare, and agricultural products. The study emphasizes the prudent use of existing resources and the maximisation of benefits from centrally and state-sponsored schemes for the comprehensive development of the adopted villages under UBA. Although the current initiative is based on the UBA-adopted villages, it may be applied to other rural villages of Himalayan states. This article highlights inter-variations in socio-economic issues such as healthcare, sanitation, waste management, unsustainable agriculture methods, drug misuse, unemployment, and sanitation in the UBA adopted villages in the Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian solid waste management sector is experiencing fast growth and transition as a result of rising urbanization and industrial activity. This research study examines the landscape of solid waste management in India, focusing on the informal sector's involvement, market size, and trends. It also looks into the possibility of creating an online solid waste marketplace with a progressive web app (PWA) with the goal of optimizing waste management processes, increasing resource efficiency, and contributing to environmental sustainability. The purpose of this study is to create a new waste management system that uses the YOLO v7 item recognition model andThe project concentrated on crafting design prototypes for a progressive web app (PWA) and an administrative web interface for a solid waste marketplace in India. Utilizing Figma, these designs aim to streamline waste management processes, engage users effectively, and advocate for recycling initiatives. This effort signifies a pivotal move towards closing the gap in India's waste management infrastructure. It highlights technology's role in promoting environmental sustainability and responsible waste management practices nationwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper revisits the Porter-Wagner dilemma about the association between environmental management (EM) and firm performance (FP). The context of informal Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) provides an interesting case since they are away from regulatory scrutiny or corporate/social obligations. The study resorts to labor productivity as the measure of FP and EM is represented by the various solid waste management practices (WMPs) adopted by the informal enterprises. Using the latest available cross-sectional data on un-incorporated firms by National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) 73rd round 2015-16, we found the positive impact of WMPs was higher in the case of more productive firms in the quantile, indicating the relevance of the Porter-Wagner dilemma. The direction of causality was further validated using the propensity score matching technique by decomposing the average treatment effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presently, India is in the stage of installation of solar photovoltaic panels and no focus is being given towards the impending problem of handling solar waste. The absence of adequate regulations, guidelines and operational infrastructure for photovoltaic waste in the country may lead to waste being inappropriately landfilled or incinerated in a manner that may be detrimental to human health and the environment. Business as usual projection estimates 6.64 million tonnes and 5.48 million tonnes of waste generation due to the early and regular losses using the Weibull distribution function, respectively by 2040 in India. The current study also systematically investigates various policies and legislation developments on the end-of-life of photovoltaic modules in various regions of the world, to identify gaps for further assessment. Using life cycle assessment methodology, this paper compares the environmental impacts of landfilling end-of-life crystalline silicon panels with avoided burden approach due to the recycling of materials. It has been demonstrated that solar photovoltaic recycling and reusing the recovered materials will result in impact reduction in the forthcoming production phase by as high as 70%. Further, the outcomes of carbon footprint, single score indicator with the application of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change also predicts lower values for avoided burden approach due to recycling (15,393.96 kgCO2 eq) in comparison to landfill approach (19,844.054 kg CO2 eq). The outcomes of this study aim to illuminate the importance of the sustainable management of photovoltaic panels at end-of-life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current manuscript focuses on the advancements made in establishing zone-based biogas plants in India from 1990 to the present. India generates various types of waste from agricultural, industrial, and human activities. Several methods are available to manage and derive energy from these waste materials, such as incineration, gasification, and anaerobic digestion (AD). Among these options, AD stands out as one of the most viable and environmentally friendly alternatives for biogas production, thanks to its low energy consumption. However, developing biogas plants in developing countries faces significant challenges, primarily due to governments' inadequate application of policy, financial, social, market, information, and technical constraints. To compile this information, data from various agencies in India have been gathered, revealing that 1.81 million biogas plants are currently installed in the West Zone, 1.48 million in the South Zone, 1.106 million in the North Zone, and 0.65 million in the East Zone. These biogas plants across the zones generate 7.02 lakh m3 per day. Additionally, 22 bio-CNG plants produce 84,759 kg/day of compressed biogas, and 201 waste plants generate 330.935 MW of electricity. Recently, the government has emphasized several initiatives, including GOBAR-DHAN, New National Biogas and Organic Manure, Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation, and the waste-to-energy program. These initiatives aim to enhance the utilization of waste, promote cleanliness in villages and towns, and support the Swachh Bharat Mission and Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, leading to tremendous overall success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landfilling is the most common and cheapest method of waste management practice in India. Municipal Solid Waste Landfills (MSWL) became a nuisance affecting the health, hygiene, sanitation and aesthetics of the surrounding area. Aggregates occupy almost 70% of concrete, so replacing waste materials with them could be a rewarding choice. In the current work, an experimental investigation is being carried out to test the addition of MSWL as a substitution with fine aggregate for concrete production. Out of the different aged samples available at the dumpsite, the most aged sample is chosen for experimental investigations according to the basic physical properties. Concrete mixes, with 0%, 4%, 5%, 7% and 10% partial replacement of fine aggregate with MSWL are tested for mechanical properties such as compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, and nondestructive test and have proved to be a partial substitute for fine aggregate. Durability studies such as water absorption, acid attack and sulphate attack also gave better experimental proof for the sustainable reuse of this waste material. The research reveals 5% replacement is the optimum considering all the test result values. The paper leads to advanced research for the suitability of the material in the construction industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The open dumpsite is often the preferred option for waste disposal in most developing economies, but this option has severe environmental threats. For Kanpur city, being a hot tropical urban city, the generation of landfill gasses and secretion of leachate may be a factor in health concerns for the population on-site and vicinity of the dumpsites. In this study, leachate samples were collected in three different seasons: pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon season in the year 2021, and then analyzed for their physicochemical properties. The pollution potential was assessed in terms of the leachate pollution index. Its calculated index values for these three seasons were found as 6.44, 6.91, and 6.55, respectively. Based on the index values, it can be observed that the overall pollution potential of leachate was low but it was highest in the monsoon season. Hierarchical cluster analysis was also carried out to identify different clusters of parameters contributing to the index values. In addition, a study has also been done for the assessment of non-carcinogenic health risk in terms of hazard index due to on-site contaminated soil for the working population. The analysis shows that a child as a receptor poses a considerable non-carcinogenic health risk, but an adult is under non-potential health risk. However, prolonged exposure to adults might have damaging consequences like kidney failure, laxative, constipation, etc. The results of the study may help the professionals deal with waste disposal management and related technical aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eco-entrepreneurship addresses ecological degradation using market mechanisms primarily using circular economy principles. The current research examines the factors affecting eco-entrepreneurship growth in India’s solid waste management sector. The challenges in India’s waste management landscape are multifaceted, stemming from intricate socio-economic and cultural factors. Government agencies tasked with waste management have grappled with inadequate infrastructure, outdated technology, and frail governance structures, leading to their inability to address the waste issues effectively. However, the commitment by the Indian government to environmental protection and the actions of eco-responsible business organisations, among other factors, led to a conducive environment for eco-entrepreneurs to thrive. Drawing from the examples of several actors and cases, this study explored that the growth of eco-entrepreneurship in India’s solid waste management sector can be attributed to the implementation of stricter environmental regulations, eco-responsible practices by business organisations, investors’ preference for ecological performance, activism by civil society organisations and courts of law, and adoption of eco-values by consumers. Further, this study attempts to chart a path towards understanding eco-entrepreneurship and how it differs from social and sustainable entrepreneurship by focusing on the planet and profit dimensions of the People-Planet-Profit framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop residue ashes exhibit significant capacity to adsorb pesticides and affect their adsorption behaviour in soils. The present study evaluated the effect of sugarcane trash ash (STA), the third most important crop whose residues are burnt in fields in India, on atrazine and fipronil leaching behaviour in three sugarcane growing soils. The STA reduced downward mobility of atrazine in soils but, effect varied with the soil type. No atrazine residues were detected in the leachate. Atrazine was fairly mobile in the sandy loam soil than the loam and the clay loam soils and increasing leaching intensity from 64 to 128 mm, further increased herbicide's downward mobility. Significant atrazine degradation was observed during leaching process and 38–43, 1.5–12.5 and 27–41% of column applied atrazine was degraded in the silty clay loam, the sandy clay loam and the loam soils, respectively. Higher atrazine degradation in the clay loam and the loam soils was attributed to slow water percolation rate and longer time to complete leaching process. Hydroxyatrazine, deethylatrazine and deisopropylatrazine metabolites of atrazine were detected in the soil samples, but their amounts varied in different treatments. Compared to atrazine, fipronil was highly retained in the surface layer (0–5 cm) in the control and STA-mixed soil columns and no fipronil was detected in the leachate. Trash burning is a regular practice; therefore, continuous mixing of STA in soils can reduce leaching of mobile pesticides applied in sugarcane crop. This study has implications in identifying the role of crop residue burning on fate of pesticides applied in soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic waste generation in India was around 9.4 million tonnes.year−1 in 2019 as compared to the global generation rate of more than 380 million tonnes.year−1 in 2019. Thus, India's contribution was around 3.1% of the global plastic waste generation. Globally, 42% of overall plastics produced are consumed by packaging sector and 17% by the construction sector. Whereas in India 35% is consumed by the packaging sector and 23% by construction sector. Bioplastic production is 1% out of 300 million tonnes of conventional plastics produced annually. This review attempts to analyse the plastic waste management rules, legislations, policies and practices in India during the period 1992–2020. The worldwide trend of bioplastic projects is reflected in studies in India, indicating a changed perception of bioplastics as an alternative source to conventional plastics. However, facilitating the implementation of conventional waste plastic processing plant and production of bioplastics in India involves challenges in terms of technology, developing a standardised framework and financial incentives. A legislative framework for the production of bioplastics in India should be developed alongwith an action plan for energy recovery from plastic waste. Markets for conventional plastic waste processing and production of bioplastic projects are not mature in India. This paper addresses the need for developing a roadmap towards efficient planning and sustainable solutions for both conventional plastics and bioplastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal solid waste management (MSWM) has emerged as a major issue in India due to the massive amounts of waste generated on a daily basis. Governments are focusing on establishing a proper waste management system, including a timeline for the installation of waste processing and disposal facilities to reduce waste. For this problem, waste to energy (WtE) technologies have been identified because of their ability to convert waste into green energy while minimizing associated issues. This research investigates the different kinds of WtE treatments based on various factors, namely eco-friendly, budget friendly, technical, and social aspects. The findings of this study revealed which WtE treatments are best suited for waste management systems that convert green energy. In this paper, we propose the best WtE treatment for India using the interval-valued pythagorean neutrosophic fuzzy set (PNFS). We employ the WASPAS-CRITIC method in the interval-valued pythagorean neutrosophic fuzzy environment for this WtE treatment problem. Finally, a numerical example and a comparison are provided to illustrate the reliability and efficiency of the proposed technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Utilization of livestock waste and by products are always considered to be an important source of livelihood for environment protection and agricultural development. The study explores the prospective scope of livestock waste utilization by dwelling into the livestock holdings and their health profile, waste management and bio-security practices for sustainable livelihoods of small and marginal livestock farmers of tribal belts. Methods: With an empirical survey, an analysis is made on the waste management practices in selective states of North East India (Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland). The percentage and average method were applied to understand the management practices of pig production system. In the qualitative tools mainly Focused Group Discussion (FGD) and Interview methods were used to understand the perception of people on waste management. Result: It is found that the untreated waste is utilized in field and only 2% of farmers use the manure in pisciculture where waste is used in its integrated form. A comprehensive model of treating and marketing the livestock waste and by products with the application of modern technology can not only contribute in augmenting the income but will also help in quality restoration of natural resources in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In low- and middle-income countries, managing municipal solid waste and crop residue burning is a major environmental and public health challenge. Composting and anaerobic digestion technologies are promising solutions for biodegradable organic waste management, particularly in India. However, accurate estimation of biogas yield and economic viability is essential for successful implementation of anaerobic digestion in Indian municipalities, considering regional climatic conditions like psychrophilic and psychotropic climates found in areas like North-east India. The proposed anaerobic digestion calculator provides valuable insights for operators to optimize anaerobic digestion unit performance, monitor seasonal variations in biogas production, and enhance profitability under diverse climatic conditions. It comprises a robust biogas production model and an economic model for revenue and cost evaluation. The calculator caters to the needs of anaerobic digestion units commonly employed in India, considering location-specific factors like energy prices, product values, and government incentives. The predictive models developed using machine learning techniques, including multilayer perceptron, support vector regression, and hybrid models like autoregressive integrated moving average-multilayer perceptron, enable the optimization of biogas production by adjusting key parameters. In summary, the proposed anaerobic digestion calculator and machine learning-based predictive models offer a comprehensive approach for biogas yield estimation, optimization, and economic analysis. This contributes to the efficient, sustainable, and profitable operation of biogas plants, supporting India's transition towards a bio-based smart economy and addressing environmental and public health concerns associated with waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significant increase in robust waste management can be attributed to economic expansion, population growth, and shifts in waste disposal practices. This phenomenon can be attributed to the rapid urbanisation and increasing affluence of individuals, which directly impacts societal dynamics and national progress. Solid Waste is considered as an inevitable derivative of human activities. Economic improvement, urbanization, and improved residing standards in cities beautify the quantity and complexity of stable waste. The rapid increase of populace coupled with urbanization has positioned brilliant strain on Nagpur Municipal Corporation to fulfil the growing demands of its citizens The main objectives of sustainable waste management prioritize safeguarding both human health and the environment while conserving valuable resources. This study aims to engage the community actively in efficient solid waste management practices, fostering cooperation and participation. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure environmental sustainability through a thorough investigation and analysis of waste management practices within the city. This involves focusing on appropriate technologies tailored for waste processing. Thus researcher intends to know how garbage, can be used as a valuable resource the new methods of disposal will lead to a sustainable environment for future generations by this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exponentially increasing population, industrialization, urbanization, etc., are the consequences of the unsolved problem of municipal solid waste management in India. Mismanagement of the generated solid waste has a negative impact on the public health and the environment. Effective recycling of solid waste is considered as one of the various approaches to overcome these problems. The review aims to provide an overview of the prevailing waste management scenarios across the globe and highlight the importance of recycling. The review assessed the key criteria of municipal solid waste management, and it includes a complete assessment of municipal solid waste creation, characterization, collection, and disposal in India. The inherent issues and driving possible solutions for successful solid waste management are examined. Unsorted garbage at the source, social hurdles, public perception, a lack of knowledge, unplanned expenditures, and inadequate execution of government laws were noted as the problems with solid waste management. The review found that the geographical position and economic status of a nation are important in dictating waste characteristics, and identified the recycling potential of solid waste. The review concluded that the various characterization techniques are important for the development of value-added products produced through the recycling of solid waste. Moreover, the review suggested the adoption of an integrated waste management approach for the socio-economic environmental development of nations. The findings and discussions of the review will help the relevant authorities for municipal solid waste management and researchers develop more efficient strategies for successful municipal solid waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic wastes in recent years have become a menace owing to population pressure and high demand of various plastic products in daily use. A study was conducted in Aizawl city of northeast India for a period of 3 years to quantify various types of plastic wastes. Our study found that a present plastic consumption of 13.06 g/capita/day although low when compared to developed countries continues; the generation will be doubled after a decade as the population is projected to double specially due to migration from rural areas. The plastic waste was contributed more by the high-income group of the population with a correlation factor of r = 0.97. Among the total plastic waste, packaging plastics contributed maximum with an average of 52.56% and carry bags among the packaging contribute maximum with 32.55% in the three sectors, namely, residential, commercial, and dumping sites. The result leads to a maximum contribution by the LDPE polymer with 27.46% among seven categories of polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most water systems that support ecosystems and feed humans are depleted or stressed. Aquifer characteristics, topography, subsurface activities, climate, and geochemical processes regulate groundwater availability, a reliable source of fresh water. Globally, agriculture, industries, and the domestic sector are the three major sectors that consume vast quantities of freshwater resources. Further anthropogenic activities, such as soil leaching, acid rain, fertilizer, pesticides, mining, and other industrial activities, resulted in the release of organic and inorganic pollutants that affected global water resources. In India, groundwater is used in huge quantities, resulting in groundwater depletion of 1 to 2 m a year. Low-income countries face many issues related to water pollution, and the availability of safe water is minimal. In 2019, deaths due to unsafe sanitation accounted for 2.2% of the total global deaths, amounting to 1.2 million people's deaths. India recorded 6.6% of deaths due to unsafe sanitation in 2019. India and China accounted for around 90.41% and 60.4% of the groundwater utilization for agricultural purposes, respectively. In 2020, China and India utilized vast quantities of nutrients (nitrate and phosphate) for crop growth to enhance crop yield, resulting in the highest nitrate and phosphate concentrations in groundwater. Remediating contaminants from different sources requires knowledge of their concentration, behavior, cycling, and degradation pathways. According to safety guidelines, limiting and optimizing crop organic and inorganic fertilizer, pesticide waste disposal, and empty container disposal can reduce groundwater contamination. The present study summarized groundwater utilization in various sectors, potential sources of groundwater contamination impacts on human health and the environment, preventive measures, and mitigation methods to overcome groundwater pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]