SWEDEN, famous for its natural beauty and landscapes, has set a remarkable example in waste management by turning what many consider waste into something of value. The country has even gone as far as importing trash from other countries due to its efficient recycling systems. With 35 Waste-to-Energy plants, Sweden processes 50% of its waste, generating heat and energy, and recycles or repurposes 99% of household waste, including 93% of glass bottles and cans.
In stark contrast, Pakistan faces a rapidly escalating waste crisis. The country generates approximately 49.6 million metric tons of waste annually, a figure that grows by 2 million metric tons each year. Karachi, Pakistan’s most populous city with over 14 million residents, produces more than 16,500 tons of municipal solid waste daily. Sadly, much of this waste is either burned, dumped in open areas, or buried without proper treatment, creating severe health and environmental hazards. The uncollected waste clogs drains, leading to urban flooding during monsoons, pollutes water and soil, spreads diseases, and releases toxic fumes when burned.
Addressing this crisis begins at the grassroots level. Pakistani households must adopt better waste management practices, such as separating waste into recyclable, compostable, and hazardous categories. Public awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in educating citizens about the importance of waste segregation and the benefits of recycling. Pakistan can learn from the success stories of other countries. Germany, for instance, has transformed waste management into a profitable industry, with advanced waste disposal centers and the Green Dot system, which incentivizes companies to use less packaging. Switzerland’s “polluter pays” principle and Japan’s rigorous waste segregation practices have also yielded significant results. Singapore and Dubai have implemented modern waste management techniques, including waste-to-energy plants and comprehensive waste management plans, demonstrating that even highly urbanized areas can effectively manage waste.
To address its waste crisis, Pakistan could implement several smart initiatives. Introducing Smart Waste Bins equipped with sensors can help monitor and manage waste collection more efficiently. Waste-to-Energy Plants could convert a significant portion of the waste into energy, reducing the strain on landfills and providing an alternative energy source. Establishing Community Recycling Centres would encourage citizens to recycle more, while a Mobile Application for Waste Collection could streamline the waste collection process, ensuring timely and efficient disposal.
Pakistan’s natural beauty, from the towering Karakorum to the pristine beaches of the Arabian Sea, is under threat due to poor waste management practices. The government must enforce strict waste management laws, while citizens must take responsibility for their waste. By not littering, segregating waste at home, and teaching the next generation the importance of cleanliness, Pakistan can begin to tackle its waste crisis.
These steps, though simple, are essential in ensuring a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for Pakistan. By learning from global best practices and implementing them locally, Pakistan can turn its waste management challenges into opportunities, paving the way for a greener and more prosperous nation.
—The writer is a young activist who comes from Islamabad and now lives in Dubai.
