1 AIT Asian Institute of Technology

Urban solid waste disposal : a case study of the city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia

AuthorChea Sarin
Call NumberAIT Thesis no.UE-97-09
Subject(s)Refuse and refuse disposal--Cambodia--Phnom Penh

NoteA thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment, Resources and Development
PublisherAsian Institute of Technology
AbstractThe rapid urbanizing process, fueled by rural to urban migration and population growth, has given rise to a host of urban environmental problems. These include problems related to limited availability and access to basic environmental infrastructure and services, pollution from urban wastes and emissions, and loss or destruction of natural and culture resources. The quality of the environment is thus a matter of growing concern. In this context, solid waste management has become a priority. The purpose of this study is to reviews the existing laws and regulations related to environmental protection with the special attention on the solid waste management in Cambodia meanwhile assesses the efficiency and effectiveness of these laws and regulations. To study the present situation of solid waste management system and to identify the problems related to this system with the particular focusing on the disposal part are also the main objectives of this study. This study shows that there is only a limited laws and regulations concerning environmental protection especially there is a significant lack of rules and regulation regarding solid waste management. As a result, the present performance of solid waste management is a laissez faire approach. In the present context, SWM has become one of the most serious problems in Phnom Penh City since the population increasing everyday. An integrated approach has become important for solving solid waste problems in the city and especially options for solid waste disposal since very little attention is paid by the municipality and the PSBK. At present the PSBK pays more attention to SW collection and transport so that the city becomes cleaner. However, this approach transfers the problems from one area to another. If integrated approach is not initiated immediately, the city will suffer from sanitation and health hazards. On the basis of findings the study recommends an action plan for solid waste management of Phnom Penh City. It also recommends a management plan for improving the conditions of the present landfill where there is a seriously environmentally polluted. It was recommended that the present landfill needed to be closed in 2000, however this study recommends to close in early 2004 due to the low progression of selecting and lack of capability to design and plan the new landfill. This study suggest a guidelines for new landfill selection, design and operation and post-closure care. Since there is a limited option for solid waste disposal method the study also strongly recommends to promote a composting system for waste minimization prior to final disposal.
Year1998
TypeThesis
SchoolSchool of Environment, Resources, and Development
DepartmentOther Field of Studies (No Department)
Academic Program/FoSUrban Environmental and Management (UE)
Chairperson(s)Lefebvre, Bernard G.;Zimmermann;
Examination Committee(s)Fujiwara, Okitsugu;
Scholarship Donor(s)Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) ;
DegreeThesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1998


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