Course Modules 

Module 1: Introduction to Solid Waste Management

• Waste types and characteristics

• Global and regional trends in waste generation

• Principles and objectives of SWM

• Role of SWM in sustainable development

• Case studies of effective SWM systems

Module 2: Waste Collection, Storage, and Transport

• Planning and logistics of waste collection systems

• Transfer stations and routing strategies

• Equipment and fleet management

• Safety and occupational health considerations

• Role of informal waste pickers and integration

Module 3: Waste Treatment and Disposal Technologies

• Landfilling: types, design, and management

• Incineration and waste-to-energy systems

• Composting and organic waste management

• Mechanical and biological treatment

• Environmental impacts of various technologies

Module 4: Recycling and Resource Recovery

• Principles of recycling and material recovery

• Setting up material recovery facilities (MRFs)

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

• Secondary markets and circular economy models

• Public-private partnerships in recycling

Module 5: Hazardous and Special Waste Management

• Medical, electronic, and industrial waste streams

• Storage, transport, and treatment protocols

• Legal and safety requirements

• Risk management and emergency response

• Public awareness and labeling systems

Module 6: Solid Waste Management in Urban vs Rural Settings

• Comparative challenges and opportunities

• Community-based waste management models

• Low-cost technologies and appropriate solutions

• Decentralized waste management

• Inclusivity and gender-sensitive waste services

Module 7: Financial Planning and Cost Recovery in SWM

• Budgeting and costing of SWM systems

• Tariff structures and user fees

• Cost-benefit analysis and investment planning

• Public-private financing models

• Donor and climate finance opportunities

Module 8: Legal and Policy Frameworks for Waste Management

• Overview of environmental and SWM laws

• Role of national and county governments

• Regulatory compliance and enforcement

• Institutional roles and mandates

• Policy tools for promoting waste minimization

Module 9: Public Engagement and Behavior Change

• Stakeholder identification and participation

• Awareness campaigns and education strategies

• Behavior change communication tools

• Mobilizing youth and schools in SWM

• Tools for citizen feedback and monitoring

Module 10: Strategic Planning and Monitoring of SWM Systems

• Waste audits and baseline assessments

• Key performance indicators for SWM

• Integrated SWM planning processes

• Monitoring and evaluation frameworks

• Group project: Develop a municipal SWM strategy