Sujhav Pun
Prahlad K. Thapa

DOI

ABSTRACT

This study focuses mainly on providing a firm base of information required for proper management of solid wastes generated in Kalimati Fruits and Vegetable Wholesale Market (KFVWM). The study was conducted from December 2002 to February 2003. The major objective of this study was to segregate and analyse the individual components of the waste generated inside KFVWM. Based on the quantity of market arrivals, major determinants of solid waste generation were evaluated. Waste samples were taken from the waste heap for the segregation of the different components of solid wastes. A simple regression model was estimated to evaluate the major determinants of solid waste. Further, waste and volume characteristics of solid waste were examined by employing simple weight and volume ratios. Solid waste was categorized broadly according to nature- biodegradable and non-biodegradable and according to the origin-agricultural origin and non-agricultural origin. It was found that 84 percent by volume and 93 percent by weight of solid wastes are biodegradable in nature and can be taken for composting. The rest comprised of non-biodegradable ones which could be separated before further treatment. Likewise, agricultural origin waste made of 69 percent by volume and 87 percent by weight of the total waste. The biodegradable and agricultural origin waste carried a higher density than the non-biodegradable and non-agricultural origin waste suggesting that they are a good input for a composting plant. It was also found that market arrival was the significant determinant of solid waste generation. Through the findings of the study, it is recommended that the biodegradable component of solid wastes of KFVWM should be utilized in making compost in order to reduce the environmental and social impacts of solid wastes. For this purpose, biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes have to be segregated. Also, enough consideration has to be given to the weight and volume of the different components of waste so that it will ensure a sustained operation of the compost plant.