Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Physical Elements of Solid Waste Management

The course begins with an overview of the current waste management situation in developing countries. We will introduce the Integrated Sustainable Waste Management framework that will guide you through this course. The modules of this first week deal with the physical components of municipal solid waste management. Connect with your peers and check out the bonus modules at the end of the week. We offer all quizzes in three languages. Please choose your preferred language to complete the quiz. No need to complete the quizzes in other languages. ******************** SEMANA 1: ELEMENTOS FÍSICOS DE LA GESTIÓN DE LOS RESIDUOS SÓLIDOS: El curso comienza con una visión general de la situación actual de la gestión de los residuos sólidos en los países en vías de desarrollo. Introduciremos el marco de la Gestión Integrada y Sostenible de los Residuos Sólidos que te guiará a través de este curso. Los módulos de esta primera semana tratan de los componentes físicos de la gestión municipal de los residuos sólidos. Conéctate con tus compañeros y revisa los módulos adicionales al final de la semana. ******************** SEMAINE 1: ÉLÉMENTS MATÉRIELS DE LA GESTION DES DÉCHETS SOLIDES: Le cours commence par un aperçu de la situation actuelle de la gestion des déchets dans les pays en développement. Nous vous présenterons le cadre de gestion intégrée et durable des déchets qui vous guidera tout au long de ce cours. Les modules de cette première semaine traitent des composantes physiques de la gestion des déchets municipaux. Connectez-vous avec vos collègues et découvrez les modules bonus à la fin de la semaine.

Physical Elements of Solid Waste Management : Lesson Choices

We offer this quiz in English, French and Spanish. Please choose your preferred language and complete only one of the three quizzes. | Ofrecemos esta prueba en español, inglés y francés. Por favor, elige tu idioma preferido y completa sólo una de las tres pruebas. | Nous offrons ce quiz en français, anglais et espagnol. Veuillez choisir votre langue préférée et répondre à un seul des trois quiz.

Governance Aspects of Solid Waste Management

This week focuses on the governance aspects, also called the “soft” aspects of a municipal solid waste management system. We will explain the different stakeholders and their roles and responsibilities as well as legislative issues and financial mechanisms. ******************** SEMANA 2 - ASPECTOS DE LA GOBERNANZA DE LA GESTIÓN DE LOS RESIDUOS SÓLIDOS: Esta semana se centra en los aspectos de la gobernanza, los también llamados aspectos "blandos" de un sistema de gestión municipal de residuos sólidos. Explicaremos cuáles son las diferentes partes interesadas o involucradas, y sus funciones y responsabilidades, así como los asuntos de carácter legislativo y los mecanismos financieros. ******************** SEMAINE 3 - ASPECTS DE GOUVERNANCE DE LA GESTION DES DÉCHETS SOLIDES: Cette semaine met l'accent sur les aspects de gouvernance, aussi appelés les aspects " doux " d'un système de gestion des déchets solides municipaux. Nous expliquerons les différents acteurs et leurs rôles et responsabilités ainsi que les questions législatives et les mécanismes financiers.

Governance Aspects of Solid Waste Management : Lesson Choices

Choice 1: We offer this quiz in English, French and Spanish. Please choose your preferred language and complete only one of the three quizzes. | Choice 2: Ofrecemos esta prueba en español, inglés y francés. Por favor, elige tu idioma preferido y completa sólo una de las tres pruebas. | Choice 3: Nous offrons ce quiz en français, anglais et espagnol. Veuillez choisir votre langue préférée et répondre à un seul des trois quiz.

Organic waste treatment

This week provides you with an overview on organic waste treatment. We will start with the basics of two very common organic waste treatment technologies: composting and anaerobic digestion. We then continue with technologies that are currently less common in practice: vermicomposting, waste processing using black soldier fly larvae, and thermochemical conversion. ******************** SEMANA 3 - TRATAMIENTO DE LOS RESIDUOS ORGÁNICOS: Esta semana te ofrece una visión general sobre el tratamiento de los residuos orgánicos. Comenzaremos con las nociones básicas de dos tecnologías de tratamiento de residuos orgánicos muy comunes: el compostaje y la digestión anaeróbica. Continuaremos con tecnologías que actualmente son menos comunes en la práctica: el vermicompostaje, el procesamiento de residuos sólidos con las larvas de la mosca soldado negra y la conversión termoquímica. ******************** SEMAINE 3 - TRAITEMENT DES DÉCHETS ORGANIQUES: Cette semaine vous donne un aperçu du traitement des déchets organiques. Nous commencerons par les bases de deux technologies très courantes de traitement des déchets organiques : le compostage et la digestion anaérobie. Ensuite, nous continuerons avec des technologies qui sont actuellement moins courantes dans la pratique : le lombricompostage, le traitement des déchets par larves de mouche soldat noir et la conversion thermochimique.

Organic waste treatment: Lesson Choices

Special waste fractions

The week covers special waste fractions, such as hazardous waste, healthcare waste, e-waste, plastic waste and construction and demolition waste. We will explain the key challenges and opportunities for an improved management in low- and middle-income settings. ******************** SEMANA 4 - FRACCIONES ESPECIALES DE LOS RESIDUOS SÓLIDOS: La semana abarca las fracciones especiales de los residuos sólidos, como los residuos peligrosos, los residuos sanitarios, los residuos electrónicos, los residuos plásticos y los residuos de la construcción y demolición. Explicaremos los principales desafíos y oportunidades de mejoramiento en entornos de medianos y bajos ingresos. ******************** SEMAINE 4 - DÉCHETS SPÉCIAUX: La semaine couvre les déchets spéciaux, tels que les déchets dangereux, les déchets médicaux, les déchets électroniques, les déchets plastiques et les déchets de construction et de démolition. Nous expliquerons les principaux défis et possibilités pour une meilleure gestion dans les contextes de revenus faibles et moyens.

Special waste fractions : Lesson Choices

Strategic Issues and Planning in Solid Waste Management

During the last week, the modules will focus more on strategic and planning aspects of MSWM. Learn more about the impact solid waste management has on the environment, how to improve the solid waste management situation in your community or city, and how the topic of solid waste is addressed by the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. ******************** SEMANA 5 - TEMAS ESTRATÉGICOS Y PLANIFICACIÓN EN EL MANEJO DE LOS RESIDUOS SÓLIDOS: Durante la última semana, los módulos se centrarán en los aspectos estratégicos y de planificación de la gestión municipal de los residuos sólidos. Aprende más sobre el impacto que la gestión de los residuos sólidos tiene en el medio ambiente, cómo mejorar la situación de la gestión de los residuos sólidos en su comunidad o ciudad, y cómo el tema de los residuos sólidos se aborda en los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible de las Naciones Unidas. ******************** SEMAINE 5 - ENJEUX STRATÉGIQUES ET PLANIFICATION DANS LA GESTION DES DÉCHETS SOLIDES: Au cours de la dernière semaine, les modules se concentreront davantage sur les aspects stratégiques et planificateurs de la gestion des déchets municipaux. Apprenez-en plus sur l'impact de la gestion des déchets solides sur l'environnement, comment améliorer la situation de la gestion des déchets dans votre communauté ou votre ville, et comment le thème des déchets solides est abordé par les objectifs de développement durable de l'ONU.

Strategic Issues and Planning in Solid Waste Management: Lesson Choices

Choice 1: We offer the final exam in English, French and Spanish. Please choose your preferred language! | Choice 2: Ofrecemos esta prueba en español, inglés y francés. Por favor, elige tu idioma preferido y completa sólo una de las tres pruebas. | Choice 3: Nous offrons ce quiz en français, anglais et espagnol. Veuillez choisir votre langue préférée et répondre à un seul des trois quiz.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

This course explores the management of municipal solid waste in low- and middle-income countries, which many learners are interested in

Taught by recognized experts in the field: Imanol Zabaleta, Félix Schmidt, and Dr. Christian Zurbrügg

Provides in-depth case studies that showcase successful waste management solutions, which is very useful for learners

Covers key elements of waste management systems including technical, social, and financial aspects, offering a comprehensive understanding to learners

Suitable for those who want to enhance their knowledge in waste management for sustainable development, which may not be of interest to all learners

Reviews summary

Informed waste management

learners say this mostly 5-star reviewed course covers the broad field of municipal solid waste management in developing countries. It includes lectures, readings, assignments, and quizzes that emphasize engaging assignments and difficult exams. Reviewers say the course excels at providing a global perspective and discussing large-scale sustainable waste management technologies like bioreactors and anaerobic digesters. One reviewer mentions a particular interest in the course's discussion of waste as a resource. Another reviewer appreciates the course's concern for governance, transparency, and accountability, noting these positively impact waste management.

Expand your understanding of global waste management practices and gain valuable insights from experts in the field.

"A well researched and delivered course. Thanks to the EAWAG team and all partners who made thos possible."

Explore how good governance, transparency, and accountability can improve waste management outcomes and positively impact communities.

"excelente desde guerrero Mexico un estado de mayor pobreza del pais..espero poder aplicar estos conocimientos"

Discover the economic opportunities and benefits of viewing waste as a resource rather than a disposal problem.

"it was one of the best courses i have ever take. it was really useful and i will use it in my everyday life."

Learn about innovative and environmentally friendly waste management technologies and practices.

"A wonderful content with highly expert personal which makes easy to understand and implement in daily life."

Glean useful information on municipal waste management in developing countries to enhance your knowledge and expertise.

"This course helped me to gain good knowledge about solid waste as a resource and the strategic planning."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries with these activities:

Review basic concepts

Show steps

Refreshes key concepts of solid waste management and prepares learners to engage with course materials

Browse courses on Solid Waste Management

Show steps

Review notes or textbooks from previous courses in solid waste management or environmental sciences.
Complete practice problems to test understanding of solid waste management principles.

Review 'Waste: Uncovering the Global Food Scandal' by Tristram Stuart

Show steps

Provides insights into the global food waste crisis, emphasizing the need for sustainable waste management practices

View Waste: Uncovering the Global Food Scandal on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of the book 'Waste: Uncovering the Global Food Scandal' by Tristram Stuart.
Read the book, taking notes and highlighting key points.

Organize and review course materials

Show steps

Enhances organization and familiarity with course materials, improving overall learning experience

Browse courses on Solid Waste Management

Show steps

Gather all course materials, including notes, slides, assignments, and quizzes.
Organize the materials into a logical structure, such as by topic or module.
Review the materials periodically to reinforce understanding and identify areas for further study.

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Solve practice problems on waste characterization and waste flow analysis

Show steps

Reinforces understanding of waste characterization and waste flow analysis techniques, improving problem-solving skills in waste management

Browse courses on Solid Waste Management

Show steps

Obtain practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or instructors.
Solve the practice problems, checking answers against provided solutions.

Engage in peer discussions on waste management challenges

Show steps

Facilitates knowledge sharing, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives on waste management issues

Show steps

Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to solid waste management.
Participate in active discussions, sharing knowledge and experiences.

Explore case studies of sustainable waste management

Show steps

Provides exposure to real-world examples of successful waste management practices and helps learners understand the complexities of implementing sustainable solutions

Browse courses on Case Studies

Show steps

Identify reputable sources of case studies in sustainable waste management.
Select case studies that are relevant to the specific area of solid waste management being studied.
Analyze the case studies to identify the challenges, successes, and lessons learned.

Attend a workshop on organic waste composting

Show steps

Provides practical training and exposure to organic waste composting methods, enhancing understanding of sustainable waste management practices

Browse courses on Solid Waste Management

Show steps

Identify and register for a reputable workshop on organic waste composting.
Attend the workshop, actively participating in discussions and hands-on activities.

Develop a waste management plan for a local community

Show steps

Provides hands-on experience in designing and implementing sustainable waste management strategies

Browse courses on Solid Waste Management

Show steps

Gather data on waste generation, composition, and disposal practices in the local community.
Identify and evaluate different waste management options based on technical, environmental, and economic factors.
Develop a comprehensive waste management plan that includes waste reduction, recycling, composting, and disposal strategies.

Career center

Learners who complete Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Solid Waste Manager

Solid Waste Managers oversee the collection, transportation, and disposal of solid waste. They may also be responsible for developing and implementing waste management plans, educating the public about waste reduction, and working with other stakeholders to promote sustainable waste management practices. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Solid Waste Managers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management in low- and middle-income settings, with a focus on solid waste management principles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Solid Waste Manager

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants provide advice and support to businesses and organizations on environmental issues. They may work on a variety of projects, including waste management, pollution control, and climate change mitigation. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Environmental Consultants, as it provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management in low- and middle-income settings, which can be valuable when advising clients on these issues.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Recycling Coordinator

Recycling Coordinators develop and implement recycling programs for businesses, organizations, and communities. They collaborate with stakeholders to identify opportunities for recycling, develop educational materials, and promote recycling initiatives. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Recycling Coordinators, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the recycling process and the challenges and opportunities associated with recycling in low- and middle-income settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Recycling Coordinator

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability strategies for organizations. They may work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and education. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Sustainability Managers, as it provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management and sustainability in low- and middle-income settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Sanitation Engineer

Sanitation Engineers design and implement sanitation systems to ensure the safe and hygienic disposal of human waste. They may work in both developed and developing countries, focusing on improving sanitation infrastructure and reducing the spread of waterborne diseases. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Sanitation Engineers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management in low- and middle-income settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sanitation Engineer

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and work to protect it from pollution and degradation. They may focus on a variety of environmental issues, including waste management, air pollution, and climate change. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Environmental Scientists, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of waste management and the challenges faced in low- and middle-income countries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct scientific research to advance our understanding of the world around us. They may work in a variety of fields, including environmental science, medicine, and engineering. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Research Scientists, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of waste management and the challenges faced in low- and middle-income countries, which can be valuable when conducting research in this area.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers use their knowledge of engineering and science to develop solutions to environmental problems. Work in this field can heavily involve waste management and the development of sustainable waste management strategies. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Environmental Engineers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of waste management and the challenges faced in low- and middle-income countries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer

Hazardous Waste Manager

Hazardous Waste Managers oversee the safe and compliant handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. This role may involve developing and implementing waste management plans, training staff on hazardous waste handling procedures, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Hazardous Waste Managers, as it provides a solid foundation in the principles of waste management and the specific challenges associated with managing hazardous waste.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hazardous Waste Manager

Urban Planner

Urban Planners design and develop plans for the use of land and resources in urban areas. They work to create sustainable, livable, and equitable communities. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Urban Planners, as it provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management in urban areas, particularly in low- and middle-income settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner

Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants develop solutions that promote environmental and economic well-being for organizations and governments. Individuals in this role may help their clients with developing and implementing green initiatives, waste reduction, and sustainable practices. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Sustainability Consultants, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management and sustainability in low- and middle-income settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Consultant

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop public policies. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or businesses. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Policy Analysts, as it provides a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management and sustainability in low- and middle-income settings, which can be valuable when developing and analyzing policies in this area.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators manage and maintain wastewater treatment plants, ensuring that wastewater is treated and released safely back into the environment. They monitor and adjust the treatment processes, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators, as it provides a broader understanding of the waste management process and the importance of treating wastewater efficiently.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Project Manager

Project Managers plan, execute, and close out projects. They may work in a variety of industries, including waste management, construction, and information technology. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Project Managers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with waste management projects in low- and middle-income settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Operations Manager

Operations Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of an organization. They may be responsible for a variety of functions, including production, logistics, and customer service. A course on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries may be useful for Operations Managers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with managing waste management operations in low- and middle-income settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager