Sustainable solid waste management in the context of environmental governance

The 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a significant milestone in the journey toward sustainability, addressing various cross-cutting issues and maximizing the benefits that can be derived from sustainable practices. The rapid pace of unsustainable urbanization and industrialization, coupled with a lack of awareness, presents significant challenges to effective solid waste management (SWM). This study aimed to develop a governance framework for solid waste management (SWM) to promote best practices in the transition to sustainable SWM. The proposed conceptual framework is based on previous governance research. It highlights the distinct linkages between the waste hierarchy and various approaches. The SDG 12 will enhance sustainable waste management. Adopting a governance approach successfully will enhance the effectiveness of waste management's technical, administrative, and institutional aspects. Further, environmental governance is facilitating the establishment of effective policies, programs, and strategies for urban and industrial management that address the waste management challenges. Therefore, effective waste management governance within the context of the SDGs is essential to ensure sustainable SWM practices. There is a need for a more comprehensive approach to SWM to sustain resources. This resource management may necessitate substantial changes in existing business structures, consumer behaviours, and governance systems. The study indicated that enhancing SWM governance can lead to better human health, tackling environmental degradation, and enhancing sustainable consumption and production patterns (SDG 12). The study concludes that the inextricable connection between the waste management hierarchy and waste management approaches fosters effective waste governance, ultimately resulting in sustainable waste management.