UNEP and the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) jointly published The Global Waste Management Outlook in 2018. It provides a detailed view of global waste generation, along with its cost and management.
What does the report include?
The report is made through the life cycle assessment of three key points. Gain or loss of the world is measured if:
- Businesses continue as usual
- Adopt halfway waste management measures
- Commit fully to zero waste and circular economy practices.
It evaluates the potential of municipal waste generation and management and their impact on society, the environment and the global economy.
The report finally discusses waste reduction and management strategies, such as:
- Waste hierarchy
- Treatment of waste materials
- Using waste as valuable resources
Key takeaways from global waste management outlook 2024
- It predicts that municipal solid waste generation will grow from 2.3 billion metric tons in 2023 to 3.8 billion metric tons by 2050.
- The global direct cost of waste management was USD 252 billion in 2020. However, when factoring in the hidden costs of climate change, poor health, and pollution, the cost rises to USD 361 billion.
- If we don’t take urgent action by 2050, this global annual cost will double to USD 640.3 million.
- Controlling waste by adopting waste prevention and management strategies can limit annual costs to USD 270.2 billion by 2050.
- Undertaking a circular economy model through waste avoidance, full waste management, and sustainable business practices can decouple waste generation and economic growth. Leading to a full net gain of USD 108.5 billion per year.
- Suggested action plans and guidance are provided for multinational development banks, municipalities, producers, retailers, waste management sectors, and citizens.
Read the entire report:
