Abstract

Studies show that the level of waste management in many developing countries are relatively low compared to other developed countries, and as a result, leads to adverse effects on the health and safety of the people (UNEP, 2005). Zurbrugg (2011) also highlights the fact countries that do not properly manage their waste are more exposed to environmental degradation and toxicity. According to European Commission (2005), prevention of waste has been identified to be the most preferred approach to waste management while the disposal of waste in landfill with no recovery of energy is considered the least preferred. Between these two extremes, other acceptable waste treatment options include reuse, recycling and recovery of waste. This can only be implemented when the different waste streams being generated are assessed, with detailed analysis of the source, composition and toxicity. This, in turn, will help to identify the right waste treatment options. This paper would be focusing on the several advanced waste treatment options available to developing countries which includes biological, physical and thermal treatment options. It goes on to explain that these treatment options are not only stereotyped to reducing environmental degradation and emissions of greenhouse gas, but also to generate funds for governments. This paper concludes by recommending that public awareness and change in policies can help developing countries to understand to importance of waste management as a means to improve the health and safety of the people.