A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that mismanaged solid waste is driving a public health crisis worldwide. The document, titled Throwing Away Our Health: The Impacts of Solid Waste on Human Health – Evidence, Knowledge Gaps and Health Sector Responses, highlights the urgent need for action to safeguard both human health and the environment.
The report indicates that the volume of municipal solid waste is increasing at an alarming rate, and many countries lack the necessary systems and resources to manage this waste effectively. “Solid waste reflects how our societies produce and consume, and how we treat people and the environment in the process,” stated Dr. Ruediger Krech, Director a.i. of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, One Health & Migration at the WHO. He stressed that neglecting waste management leads to preventable diseases, environmental pollution, and significant social inequities.
According to the report, improperly managed waste negatively impacts health through polluted air, water, soil, and food sources. Inadequate waste collection or unsafe disposal methods, such as dumping and burning, can release hazardous chemicals and contaminate drinking water. Certain populations, including those living near dumpsites, children, pregnant women, and informal waste workers, face the greatest risks.
Health Risks and Opportunities
The report emphasizes the importance of safe waste management for the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) community, asserting that proper handling of municipal and healthcare waste is essential for climate-resilient systems. Currently, a significant portion of municipal solid waste remains uncollected or is disposed of in uncontrolled conditions, such as open dumpsites. These practices harm ecosystems, contribute to climate change, and hinder efforts to develop healthy urban environments.
Conversely, when waste is managed effectively, it can be transformed into a resource, generating energy and creating green jobs. The WHO calls for a coordinated, multisectoral response based on a waste hierarchy: prioritizing waste prevention, followed by reduction, reuse, recycling, and safe recovery and disposal.
Key actions highlighted for governments and partners include reducing waste generation at the source, expanding waste collection services in underserved communities, enhancing controls at recovery and disposal facilities, and eliminating open dumping and burning.
The health sector plays a crucial role in addressing solid waste as a public health threat. It can take proactive measures to prevent and minimize healthcare waste, improve segregation and treatment practices, invest in cleaner technologies, and advocate for health-protective policies and standards.
Practical Steps for Health Authorities
The report encourages increased surveillance, research, and biomonitoring to strengthen the evidence base while promoting social protection and inclusion for informal waste workers. “This report gives countries and health authorities a very practical agenda,” said Mr. Bruce Gordon, Head of the Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Health Unit at WHO.
Health ministries are urged to ensure safe management of healthcare waste and develop strong occupational health programs for waste workers. Collaborating with municipalities to mitigate health risks from solid waste, such as closing open dumps and burn sites, will lead to improved services.
These actionable steps not only have the potential to save lives today but also contribute to cleaner, healthier cities in the future. The WHO’s report serves as a vital call to action for global leaders to prioritize health and equity in waste management strategies.
