The aim of this course is to provide course participants with up-to-date knowledge regarding technological, organisational and legislative developments and practices of handling solid wastes worldwide.

Learning objectives

On the conclusion of this course, the participant should be able to:

Make informed decisions in their professional activities;
Define and implement integrated solutions to the challenges posed by solid wastes in urban environment;
Establish a solid waste management system that is capable of functioning not only in situations where sufficient resources are available but also under the more challenging conditions usually prevailing in (large) cities in low-income countries.

Target group

Professionals dealing with management, engineering, decision-making and education in the fields of solid waste handling, urban infrastructure and urban environment management. Participants from government organizations (local administrations, national agencies), non-governmental organizations and the private sector are encouraged to join.

Additional information

The topics covered in the course include:

Technological aspects: Municipal Solid Waste collection, transfer, recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion, energy recovery, incineration, hazardous waste management and waste disposal on land.
Non-technological aspects: Policy development, legislation, institutional arrangements, financing, stakeholder involvement, and privatization of solid waste management services and operations.

The development of a Solid Waste Management Master Plan is also incorporated in the curriculum. Participants will learn about solid waste practices world-wide via lectures, case studies, assignments and field visits.