Study on Solid Waste Management : An Economic Analysis with Respect to Ernakulam District

This thesis analyzed waste generation and waster disposal problems in municipalities and Cochin Corporation in Ernakulam district.Then the potential of resource recovery and recycling from biodegradable and non bio-degradable waste is established.The study further focused on the need for segregation of waste at the source as biodegradable and non biodegradable solid waste.The potential of resource recovery is explained in detail through the case study.The thesis also highlights the economically viable and environmental friendly methods o f treatment of waste.But the problem is that concerted and earnest attempts are lacking in making use of such methods.In spite of the health problems faced,people living near the dump sites are forced to stay there either because of their weak economic background or family ties.The study did not calculate the economic cost of health problems arising out of unscientific and irresponsible methods of waste disposal.

Dept.of Applied Economics,Cochin University of Science and Technology