Manimekalai B., Poongundran, Vaishnavi Sensooryan and Vijaya Kumar
Abstract
The rapid urbanization and population growth in the Chennai region have led to an escalating challenge in managing solid waste effectively. This project aims to develop a comprehensive Solid Waste Management (SWM) plan for the Chennai region by leveraging the Waste Planning and Analytics (Wapla) tool. Wapla, a state-of-the-art tool designed for waste management optimization, will be employed to analyze and enhance waste collection, transportation, disposal, and recycling processes. The case study will commence with a thorough assessment of the current solid waste management practices in the Chennai region, identifying key challenges and inefficiencies. Data collection will encompass waste generation rates, demographic patterns, and existing waste infrastructure. Utilizing Wapla, a detailed analysis will be conducted to model different scenarios and predict future waste generation trends based on population growth and economic development. The Wapla tool will play a pivotal role in optimizing waste collection routes, ensuring efficient transportation, and minimizing the environmental impact of waste disposal. The toolââ¬â¢s advanced analytics capabilities will be harnessed to determine the optimal locations for waste treatment facilities and recycling centers, promoting a sustainable and circular economy. To facilitate community involvement and awareness, a robust communication strategy will be devised, incorporating public education programs and engagement initiatives. The project will also explore the integration of technology-driven solutions, such as smart bins and IoT devices, to enhance real-time monitoring and data collection. Additionally, the proposed SWM plan will align with environmental regulations and standards, fostering a greener and healthier Chennai. The project outcomes will be presented in a comprehensive report, including detailed recommendations, cost-benefit analyses, and a phased implementation plan.