Strategies to Mitigate Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions from the Solid Waste Management Sector: A Case Study of Vavuniya, Sri Lanka.

Abstract

The waste sector is a substantial source of GHG emissions worldwide. Open dumping and internal combustion (IC) waste collection vehicles are significant sources of GHG emissions in Vavuniya. This research aims to estimate GHG emissions and recommend strategies to reduce emissions from the solid waste management sector. The IPCC methodology, considering Tier 1 estimation values based on default activity data, was used to estimate CH₄ emissions from solid waste disposal sites. GHG emissions from collection vehicles were calculated based on IPCC mobile combustion recommendations. Three recommended strategies were considered based on demand, economic, and environmental feasibility and are expected to commence in 2025. According to current practices, open dumping generated 29.217 Gg of CO₂ equivalent up to 2023, projected to rise by 37.8% by 2040. There will be a 57% decrease in open dumping-related GHG emissions by 2040 if composting is made mandatory for biodegradable waste, even though it produces emissions. Solar panels will be used to charge electric vehicles that will replace IC ones to cut emissions and fuel expenditures by 2025. The carbon sink reforestation program at the district level would need to begin in 2025 with an area of 161 hectares to sequester cumulative GHG emissions from composting dumpsites and fuel vehicles to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. Investments from Vavuniya Carbon Sink Bonds (VCSB) on additional solar panels will ensure financial feasibility, having an internal rate of return of 23.18%. It paves the path to reducing GHG emissions, which is highly emphasized in the Nationally Determined Contributions, National Climate Change Policy, and waste management policy of Sri Lanka.