From Avanish Kumar, Toxics Link, New Delhi
Posted 31 October 2007

Rapid urbanization has put Third World cities in an urban crisis. Municipal authorities, in third world cities, have not been able to dispose off urban waste in a scientific and eco-friendly manner. Inappropriate waste disposal technologies have only intensified the problem. Composting has been promoted as an eco-friendly and sustainable solution to urban waste management. However, experiences of composting projects have not been very good. The most negative aspect of this significant issue is the fact that very little analysis of the failure of past projects is available, especially in India. Research and analysis on various issues regarding composting are very much needed to promote eco-friendly practices particularly in Agriculture.

Toxics Link is carrying out a study on composting methods, types, processes, marketing and prospects in context of Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) in India with the intention of promoting their use for Agriculture. I would therefore appreciate members from both the Water and the Food and Nutrition Communities to provide their inputs, suggestions and field experiences on the following:

• Information on various composting approaches specifically those appropriate for Agriculture, composting techniques (traditional and those currently in use), and the legal and policy framework involved – especially in the context of MSWM
• Case Studies of composting projects in India including decentralised and commercial composting units, highlighting operational and managerial constraints
• Information on current marketing scenario for compost and challenges in compost marketing

The final report of this research would be used as an advocacy tool to promote sustainable and scientific practices MSWM with forward linkages to Agriculture. Member’s contributions on the Solution Exchange Network would be duly acknowledged in the report.

Look forward to your responses

Please see attachment below for the responses.