Solid Waste Institute for Sustainability

The Solid Waste Institute for Sustainability (SWIS) is an Organized Research Center of Excellence (ORCE) dedicated to developing clean and healthy urban cities through sustainable waste management.

SWIS combines science, engineering, and social science expertise to develop new methodologies and solutions that allow researchers to explore international paths to sustainable waste management. Located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, SWIS works for a better future by developing sustainable solid waste management that incorporates the economy, people and environment which will be beneficial to all.

Objectives

SWIS strives to

provide better sanitation and reduce the effects of waste and waste management facilities on nearby residents.
educate and train solid waste management personnel involved in landfill operation from the United States and other developed and developing countries.
help the next generation of waste management professionals develop businesses related to waste management and recycling, which could create jobs and help reduce poverty.

Background

World cities generate about 1.3 billion tonnes of solid waste annually. This volume is expected to increase to 2.2 billion tonnes by 2025 (World Bank Report, 2012). Cost increases will be most severe in low-income countries (more than 5-fold increases) and lower-middle income countries (more than 4-fold increases). Average waste collection rates are directly related to income levels. Low-income countries have low collection rates, around 41%, while high-income countries have higher collection rates, averaging 98% (Cointreau, 2008).

Challenges in Solid Waste Management

Collection and management, and related technology
Training and management
Development of waste management practices

Issues in Solid Waste Management

Health
Environment
Economy

Solid Waste Institute for Sustainability