Rethinking Waste Management: A Holistic Sustainability Framework for a Circular Economy

Abstract

As societies face increasing environmental challenges, the need for holistic sustainability frameworks in waste management becomes imperative. This paper presents a comprehensive approach to rethinking waste management within the context of a circular economy. The study begins by examining the limitations of current waste management practices, highlighting the urgency to transition towards sustainable solutions. Emphasizing the importance of a circular economy, the paper discusses the potential benefits of adopting circular principles in waste management systems. The primary objective of this research is to propose a holistic sustainability framework that integrates key components for effective waste management, including waste reduction, recycling, resource recovery, and stakeholder engagement. The framework incorporates established methodologies such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Material Flow Analysis (MFA), and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to guide decision-making processes. The framework is validated through a case study on Tokyo, Japan, assessing the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed approach in a real-world context. The findings highlight the significance of implementing source separation programs and promoting composting to reduce the organic waste fraction in Tokyo. Such measures can divert organic waste from landfills and transform it into a valuable resource. The validated framework provides insights into developing a holistic sustainability framework for waste management, contributing to the advancement of sustainable practices in achieving a circular economy.