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Towards Zero Waste: An In-Depth Analysis of National Policies, Strategies, and Case Studies in Waste Minimisation

Author

Listed:
  • Mohammed Almansour

    (Department of Engineering, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QF, UK)

  • Mohammad Akrami

    (Department of Engineering, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QF, UK)

Abstract

This review provides a detailed analysis of zero waste (ZW) initiatives, focusing on national policies, strategies, and case studies aimed at minimising municipal solid waste (MSW). It evaluates the environmental, social, and economic impacts of waste and explores the transition from conventional landfill reliance to sustainable waste management practices. Key ZW approaches, including circular economy frameworks and extended producer responsibility (EPR), are examined through case studies from countries such as China, Germany, and the United States. The review highlights advancements in waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies, the development of zero waste cities, and the critical role of policies in achieving significant MSW reduction. Additionally, it identifies key challenges such as infrastructure gaps and regulatory weaknesses and offers practical solutions to overcome these barriers. This study serves as a valuable resource for policymakers aiming to implement effective waste reduction strategies and enhance sustainable waste management systems globally.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohammed Almansour & Mohammad Akrami, 2024. "Towards Zero Waste: An In-Depth Analysis of National Policies, Strategies, and Case Studies in Waste Minimisation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(22), pages 1-26, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:22:p:10105-:d:1524616
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Yanli Zhu & Youxian Zhang & Dongxia Luo & Zhongyi Chong & Erqiang Li & Xuepeng Kong, 2021. "A review of municipal solid waste in China: characteristics, compositions, influential factors and treatment technologies," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 23(5), pages 6603-6622, May.
    2. Carly Jacobs & Katie Soulliere & Susan Sawyer-Beaulieu & Abir Sabzwari & Edwin Tam, 2022. "Challenges to the Circular Economy: Recovering Wastes from Simple versus Complex Products," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(5), pages 1-17, February.
    3. Hachemi, Houssem & Seladji, Chakib & Negadi, Latifa & Bhandari, Ramchandra & Aryal, Sachin & Sacko, Bakamba dite Djénéba, 2024. "Improving municipal solid waste management in Algeria and exploring energy recovery options," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 230(C).
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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