MEV 017: Unit 07 – Bio-Medical and Solid Waste Pollution

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 UNIT 7: BIO-MEDICAL AND SOLID WASTE POLLUTION

7.1 Introduction

Environmental pollution due to waste, especially bio-medical and solid waste, poses a serious threat to ecological and human health. Rapid urbanization, rising healthcare demands, and consumerism have led to the generation of various types of hazardous and non-hazardous wastes. Among these, biomedical and solid waste are particularly significant due to their volume, composition, and potential impacts if mismanaged. Effective legislation and management practices are necessary to minimize their environmental and health risks.

7.2 Objectives

After completing this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Understand the types, sources, and impacts of biomedical and solid waste pollution.
  • Analyze national legislation and rules related to biomedical, solid, and hazardous waste.
  • Evaluate the role of central and state authorities in waste management.
  • Examine recent rules and reforms for sustainable waste management.

7.3 Hazardous Waste Management Rules

Hazardous wastes are materials that pose substantial or potential threats to public health or the environment. These include chemical wastes from industries, e-waste, and certain biomedical waste.

Key Highlights of Hazardous Waste Management Rules (2016):

  • Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is enforced, requiring manufacturers to take responsibility for end-of-life disposal.
  • Import and export of hazardous waste is regulated under strict compliance.
  • A list of processes and wastes considered hazardous is clearly defined.
  • State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are responsible for issuing authorization and monitoring facilities.

Hazardous waste rules also include e-waste management, batteries management, and chemical accident rules, thus providing a broad regulatory framework.

7.4 Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules

Biomedical waste refers to any waste generated during the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of human beings or animals. It includes infectious materials, pathological waste, sharps, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.

7.4.1 The Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998

These were the first comprehensive rules in India addressing biomedical waste management. Major provisions included:

  • Segregation of waste at source.
  • Use of color-coded bins for safe handling and disposal.
  • Mandatory treatment before final disposal through incineration or autoclaving.
  • Requirement for hospitals to maintain records and follow safety protocols.

7.4.2 The Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016

These rules updated the previous framework to reflect new challenges and technologies. Key provisions include:

  • Compulsory barcoding and tracking of waste from source to disposal.
  • Segregation into four color-coded categories (yellow, red, white, blue).
  • Prohibition of the mixing of biomedical waste with municipal waste.
  • Authorization for waste generators (clinics, hospitals) and waste handlers.
  • Annual report submission to the SPCB.

The 2016 Rules apply not only to hospitals but also to veterinary institutions, home healthcare facilities, and medical camps.

7.5 Solid Waste Management Rules

Solid waste includes a variety of discarded materials like household garbage, food waste, plastics, construction debris, and other non-hazardous materials. Mismanagement of solid waste leads to water and air pollution, soil contamination, and public health issues.

7.5.1 Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000

These rules emphasized:

  • Proper segregation of waste at the household level.
  • Door-to-door collection of segregated waste.
  • Setting up of landfills outside city limits.
  • Daily cleaning of public places by municipalities.

However, the rules lacked enforceability, technological focus, and citizen participation, leading to limited success.

7.5.2 The Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016

These were a significant revision of the 2000 Rules. Major improvements include:

  • Compulsory waste segregation at source into biodegradable, recyclable, and hazardous waste.
  • Inclusion of bulk generators (hotels, educational institutions, housing societies).
  • Rules applicable to all urban and rural areas, airports, railway stations, etc.
  • Mandatory waste processing technologies like composting, anaerobic digestion, and waste-to-energy plants.
  • Emphasis on awareness generation and penalties for non-compliance.
  • Clear roles for Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

These rules promote the “waste-to-wealth” approach, encouraging composting and recycling over landfilling.

7.6 Let Us Sum Up

Biomedical and solid waste pollution remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges in India. If not properly managed, it can lead to the spread of infectious diseases, soil and water contamination, and long-term ecological degradation.

The Government of India has introduced detailed and structured rules for the management of biomedical, solid, and hazardous wastes through legislation passed in 1998, 2000, and updated in 2016. These rules emphasize segregation, safe treatment, disposal, monitoring, and community involvement.

Implementation remains a challenge due to lack of infrastructure, inadequate awareness, and compliance gaps. Moving forward, stricter enforcement, innovative waste processing technologies, public participation, and proper institutional mechanisms will be key to minimizing the environmental impact of waste and ensuring a cleaner, safer India.

 

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