A recent study conducted by the Global Waste Management Institute (GWMI) highlights a concerning trend concerning biodegradable waste management worldwide. According to the report released on October 15, 2023, approximately 50% of global biodegradable waste is not being managed effectively, risking environmental health and sustainability. The study indicates that only 25% of organic waste is composted or repurposed, while the rest is disposed of in landfills, leading to significant greenhouse gas emissions. ‘We are effectively burying our resources under mountains of waste,’ stated Dr. Sarah Thompson, lead researcher at GWMI. The research also pointed out that developing countries are disproportionately affected, with 70% of biodegradable waste being mismanaged in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Dr. Thompson emphasized the urgent need for better waste policies, stating, ‘We must shift our waste management strategies to prioritize sustainability and resource recovery.’ In response to these challenges, several countries are beginning to implement innovative waste management practices. For instance, Sweden has adopted a national strategy to reach a 50% composting rate by 2025, while Japan continues to lead in waste recycling technologies. The GWMI urges governments and corporations to work collaboratively on solutions to curb biodegradable waste mismanagement as a global priority.
New Study Reveals Alarming Trends in Global Biodegradable Waste Management
