Why and How
The danger from disaster wastes and uncontrolled dumping
Following any disaster large quantities of solid waste arise that pose a major threat
to public health and hinders reconstruction efforts.
Uncontrolled dumping of wastes can have a significant negative impact on public
health and the environment through leaching of contaminants into soils and groundwater,
increased vermin presence, negative odour and visual impacts.
Hazardous and healthcare wastes dumped openly are a source of serious harm to people
and increases the problems further, thus requiring even more support and financial
resources, particularly during the emergency phase.
Reusing and recycling waste
Appropriate disaster waste response can be a catalyst to promote sustainable waste
management solutions. Yes, waste can provide a valuable resource to reconstruction
works through recycling and reuse to provide construction materials and income generating
opportunities.
Fast response and transfer of best practice skills
Communities affected by disasters natural or otherwise, such as cessation of conflicts,
need urgent and timely solid waste management and environmental protection support.
They also need a focal point for best practice, lessons learnt and key issues regarding
disaster wastes, which will provide an open reference source for those responsible
for the planning, design and implementation of disaster waste projects.
DWR therefore provide expertise, management & knowledge covering:
- Collection
- Transport
- Recycling
- Incineration
- Disposal of all waste types
- Training
- Preparedness planning
- Waste assessment
- Sustainable livelihoods
- Integrating into ongoing recovery projects
Training and Advice
We enable communities and responsible local authorities to design and implement
effective disaster waste management projects through:
- A range of training and awareness workshops
- Best practice guidelines as support to implementing agencies
- Provision through a focal point that is tasked to bring together lessons learnt
and best practice in disaster waste management
Equipment and Machinery
Adequate and appropriate waste management equipment and machinery is often lacking
in the disaster recovery phase. The selection and supply of such equipment is a
pre-requisite to successful disaster waste management projects where reuse, recycling,
safe handling and proper disposal of wastes are key issues.
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