The course offers a comprehensive understanding of solid waste management (SWM), covering essential concepts, technologies, and policies. Beginning with the definition and classification of solid waste, it delves into the Indian scenario, integrated SWM strategies, and policy evolution. Learners will explore waste quantification, characterization methods, and modern collection systems. Advanced topics include vehicle routing, transfer stations, life cycle assessments, carbon footprints, and smart solutions like sensor-based monitoring and data analytics. Practical insights through case studies will prepare participants to address real-world challenges and design sustainable, efficient, and innovative SWM systems.

Cultivate your career with expert-led programs, job-ready certificates, and 10,000 ways to grow. All for $25/month, billed annually. Save now


Recommended experience
Details to know

Add to your LinkedIn profile
March 2025
4 assignments
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills


Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV
Share it on social media and in your performance review

There are 4 modules in this course
Solid waste, a pressing global issue, is the unwanted material generated from various human activities. This course will explore the types, sources, and impacts of solid waste, with a special focus on the Indian context. We will delve into the importance of effective solid waste management, including the principles of Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM). You'll learn about the evolution of solid waste management policies and regulations in India, understanding the legal framework that governs waste disposal practices. By the end of this course, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in solid waste management and be equipped to contribute to sustainable solutions.
What's included
5 videos1 assignment5 plugins
Solid waste management requires accurate estimation and characterization of waste generation. This course will delve into various methods to quantify waste, including direct measurement, surveys, and statistical modeling. We will explore the factors influencing waste generation, such as population growth, economic activities, and cultural practices. Additionally, we will examine different techniques for characterizing waste, including physical, chemical, and biological methods. By understanding the composition and properties of waste, we can develop effective strategies for its management and disposal.
What's included
6 videos1 assignment3 plugins
This course delves into the core aspects of waste collection, storage, and transfer systems essential for effective waste management. It covers various collection methods, container types, and materials, along with advanced collection systems like Hauled and Stationary Container Systems (HCS and SCS). Learners will explore onsite and centralized storage methods, vehicle routing strategies, and technologies for transfer stations. Emphasis is placed on feasibility and economic analysis to design efficient systems. Through case studies and practical insights, the course equips participants to optimize waste collection and transfer processes, ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency in waste management systems.
What's included
12 videos1 assignment5 plugins
This course explores advanced tools and technologies for smart and sustainable waste management. Key topics include Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Carbon Footprint analysis to evaluate environmental impacts. Participants will learn about smart systems, including sensors for real-time monitoring of waste parameters like compost moisture content and dustbin capacity. Additionally, the course covers data analytics techniques for optimizing waste collection services, enabling efficient resource allocation and reducing operational costs. By integrating sustainability principles with cutting-edge technologies, this course prepares learners to design intelligent waste management systems that minimize environmental impacts and promote sustainable urban development.
What's included
5 videos1 assignment2 plugins
Instructor

Offered by
Why people choose Coursera for their career





Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy.
More questions
Financial aid available,