Assessment of the Socio-cultural Viability of Integrated Waste-to-energy Systems for Uganda

Abstract

Application of waste-to-energy systems could be the solution for urban areas in countries like Uganda where municipal solid waste is composed of atleast 70% organic matter and sewage and faecal sludge management is limited to about 20 treatment plants. Projected increase in urbanisation to 50% in 2050 will only constrain the existing sanitation facilities, resulting in public health issues and competition for land use. This study investigates application of integrated waste-to-energy systems consisting of a combination of anaerobic digestion, incineration and composting to treat organic waste streams from urban areas. Despite the benefits of such systems related to resource recovery in form of biogas and organic fertiliser, little is known about their socio-cultural viability. A survey carried out at Uganda Christian University showed respondent`s beliefs and cultural backgrounds influenced their attitude towards utilising resources recovered. Also, sensitisation and quality assurance of resources recovered boosted system acceptability.