Analysis of Solid Waste Management in Tourist City: A Case Study in Kuakata Municipality, Bangladesh

Abstract

Solid waste management is an increasing problem in developing countries' coastal and marine cities due to inadequate management. The purpose of the research is to investigate the solid waste management system of Kuakata tourist city. A stratified random sampling method was used, and several statistical tools were used to analyze the obtained data. Employing a mixed-methods approach, including household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The findings indicate that the waste management system is fragmented, incomplete, and highly biased toward tourist-oriented areas. Residential areas are the most neglected parts of the municipal waste collection system, where respondents mentioned coverage to up to 20% only in 2 out of 3, and only 4% respondent said coverage extends beyond 50%. Among service recipients, 52% reported poor satisfaction, 42% moderate satisfaction, and 6% high satisfaction because of irregular collection, insufficient manpower, and poor infrastructure. The challenges for solid waste management in the area are overflow of bins, no segregation, litter on the beach, lack of awareness, and illegal dumping. About 96% respondent perception said that the present solid waste management system affects health and the environment. Kuakata's solid waste management system lacks inclusiveness, sustainability, and fairness. Unless solutions are found to enhance coverage, upgrade infrastructure, and create awareness in society, this city may experience further environmental deterioration, which will increase health problems as well as loss of tourism potential. The insights and recommendations provided in this work hold significance for policymakers, development practitioners, and researchers working towards sustainable solid waste management and disposal in the growing tourist municipality of Kuakata. Keywords: Waste, Solid Waste, Tourist City, Awareness, Disposal Method