Improving solid waste management is crucial for countering public health impacts of uncollected waste and environmental impacts of open dumping and burning. This practical reference guide introduces key concepts of integrated solid waste management and identifies crosscutting issues in the sector, derived mainly from field experience in the technical assistance project Mainstreaming Integrated Solid Waste Management in Asia. This guide contains over 40 practice briefs covering solid waste management planning, waste categories, waste containers and collection, waste processing and diversion, landfill development, landfill operations, and contract issues.

This Guide has been developed particularly for solid waste management practitioners, such as local government officials, facility owners and operators, consultants, and regulatory agency specialists. Contains technical and economic information to help these practitioners meet the daily challenges of planning, managing, and operating municipal solid waste (MSW) programs and facilities. The Guide's primary goals are to encourage reduction of waste at the source and to foster implementation of integrated solid waste management systems that are cost-effective and protect human health and the environment. Illustrated.