Municipal Solid Waste Characteristics at Landfill in Tiruchirappalli, India

Municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is one of the major environmental problems of Indian cities. Improper management of municipal solid waste (MSW) causes hazards to inhabitants. Various studies reveal that about 98% of MSW is disposed of unscientifically in open dumps and landfills, creating problems to public health and the environment. This study deals with the characteristics and composition of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in Tiruchirappalli city. The Physical composition of solid waste was studied by segregating it into different component, i.e., kitchen waste, paper, earth and fine material, Plastic bags, leaves, metals, etc. These components were categorized into organic waste and inorganic waste. It was observed that Tiruchirappalli city produces around 65% organic waste and the rest is inorganic waste. The Chemical characteristics of organic solid waste, i.e., pH, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and Calorific value were evaluated. The analysis of organic content of MSW indicates that it is good source of nutrients for the agriculture sector whereas inorganic material can be used for landfill