New Deadline for Waste Processing: MCC Mandates On-Site Composting by January 2025
To address the pressing issue of waste management, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has announced a new mandate requiring bulk waste generators to establish on-site composting units for processing wet waste. The deadline for compliance is January 15, 2025. This directive is in line with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and MCC's Solid Waste Treatment Bylaws, designed to ensure better waste management practices and reduce landfill dependency.
Currently, Mangaluru has more than 2,500 bulk waste generators, but a significant number of these entities have not yet implemented composting solutions. Bulk waste generators include apartments with more than 30 flats, complexes exceeding 5,000 square feet, and businesses, malls, public sector enterprises, and places of worship that generate more than 100 kg of waste per day. These establishments are mandated to segregate their waste into three categories: organic, dry, and hazardous, and to ensure that the wet waste is processed into compost for fertilizer use.
Anand CL, the MCC Commissioner, emphasized that this measure is essential to adhere to environmental standards and contribute towards waste reduction. The city is keen on promoting sustainability and minimizing landfill dependency. With the deadline set for January 2025, authorities are urging all bulk waste generators to take immediate action to meet this requirement.
The guidelines are not just about compliance; they also represent a significant step towards efficient waste management practices that can have long-term environmental benefits. On-site composting will not only reduce the burden on Mangaluru’s waste disposal system but will also encourage businesses and residents to adopt eco-friendly waste management practices. Moreover, the compost generated can be used as fertilizer, thereby closing the loop in waste management.
However, non-compliance will attract penalties. The MCC has announced that any bulk waste generators failing to process organic waste on-site by the deadline will be fined Rs. 15,000, in line with both the national Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and the MCC Solid Waste Management Bylaws, 2019. These fines are expected to encourage prompt action and help meet the city's waste management goals.
In addition to the new regulations, the MCC has provided residents and businesses with resources to facilitate the transition to on-site composting. Those seeking more information or needing assistance in setting up composting units can visit the MCC’s official website or reach out to the corporation’s health department via email.
Image source- mangaluru-city-corporation
