摘要：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 studiesreveal that about 90% of MSW is disposed of unscientifically in open dumps and landfills, create problemsto public health and the environment. This paper presents an assessment of the existing situation of municipalsolid waste management (MSWM) in Coimbatore city. The quantity and composition of MSW vary fromplace to place, and bear a rather consistent correlation with the average standard of living. Field investigationswere carried out for quantification, analysis of physico chemical composition, and characterization in disposalsite. Studies carried out in these places have revealed that there are many shortcomings in the existingpractices used in managing the MSW. These shortcomings pertain mainly to inadequate manpower, financialresources, implements and machinery required for effectively carrying out various activities for MSWM.Various adopted treatment technologies for MSW are critically reviewed, along with their advantages andlimitations. The study is concluded with a few fruitful suggestions, which may be beneficial to encourage thecompetent authorities/researchers to work towards further improvement of the present system.
