Household Solid Waste Generation and Management Systems in Rural Areas of Bhutan

Abstract

Globally, waste is accepted as an emerging issue and it concerns everyone, locally, nationally, and globally. However, studies on waste generation, composition, and management systems are often focused on urban areas. Similarly, Bhutan lacks information and reliable data about rural household solid waste generation and its composition at large and there is vague information on its management systems. This paper presents precise information on waste generation, composition, and management systems in rural areas in three administrative units called Gewogs namely Khatoed, Semjong, and Phangkhar under Gasa, Tsirang, and Zhemgang districts respectively. These study areas are located in different regions of the country with varying geographic locations, natural resources, altitudes, cultural diversity, lifestyles, and consumption patterns. The study envisioned narrowing the data gap, creating a yardstick for similar studies to be undertaken henceforth, and delivering sufficient and reliable information for informed decision-making for the successful progression of waste prevention and management programs to achieve"Zero Waste Bhutan", the vibrant vision of the country towards attaining zero waste society. On average, each household generated about 0.17 kg per day in the study areas and the per capita waste generation was 0.039 kg, 0.037 kg, and 0.032 kg a day in Khatoed, Semjong, and Phangkhar Gewogs respectively. On average, at least 72.9% practiced reduction, 86.8% reported that they reused, and 29.4% practiced recycling in their daily lives. At least 95.7%, 73.7%, and 82.1% of the household under Semjong, Phangkhar, and Khatoed Gewogs respectively practiced waste segregation into wet and dry at the source.