ISSN: 2222-6990
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Malaysia faces mounting waste management issues due to rapid urbanisation and population growth, which call for more effective and sustainable solutions. The amount of waste generated daily has increased from an estimated 19,000 tonnes in 2005 to over 39,000 tonnes by 2024, exceeding the 30,000 tonnes threshold that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) had projected for 2020. Despite an increase in the national recycling rate to 17.5%, it is estimated that 82.5% of waste continues to end up in landfills, many of which have already exceeded their capacity. Food waste accounts for more than 30% of the total municipal solid waste (MSW), with an estimated 8.3 million metric tonnes of food waste being disposed of each year by Malaysians, translating to an average of 260 kilograms per person. The continued growth in waste generation is putting a strain on existing landfill infrastructure, increasing the cost of waste disposal, and contributing to environmental degradation. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly important to explore green innovation in waste management practices. This paper explores the structural limitations of current waste management practices, the socio-economic factors contributing to the increase in waste generation, and the role of green innovation in shaping the future of waste management in Malaysia. The paper highlights the need for more integrated, technology-driven solutions and policy reforms that prioritise reducing environmental impact, improving recycling efficiency, and achieving long-term sustainable urban development.
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