The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has recently emphasized the importance of segregating Covid-19 biomedical waste from general garbage. This is crucial to prevent further contamination that could have adverse impacts on public health. The directives followed a suo motu case related to the scientific disposal of Covid-19 waste. Here, we discuss this issue in more detail, focusing on key points, data analysis, concerns, and suggestions.
The Importance of Waste Discrimination
The NGT pointed out the necessity of distinguishing Covid-19 related waste from general waste. This is not only important for reducing additional strain on Common Biomedical Waste Treatment and Disposal Facilities (CBWTFs)’ incinerators but also for preventing further contamination. The Biomedical Waste Management Rules, 2016, in India, stipulate how waste generated by infectious diseases like Covid-19 should be handled.
An Overview of the Situation
Currently, around 2,907 hospitals, 20,707 quarantine centres, 1,539 sample collection centres, and 264 testing laboratories contribute to the generation of Covid-19 waste. On average, the country produces approximately 101 Metric Tonnes (MT) of Covid-19 related biomedical waste per day, besides the regular 609 MT of biomedical waste. Approximately 195 CBWTFs are responsible for the collection, transportation, and disposal of Covid-19 biomedical waste from various facilities.
Current Challenges
The pandemic has undeniably strained the nation’s capacity to dispose of this increased volume of waste scientifically. This presents a challenge to civic authorities tasked with its collection and disposal. Furthermore, not all states are adhering to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines on Covid-19 related waste. Instances of improper waste segregation have been reported from Covid-19 facilities and quarantine homes in some states. This lack of segregation leads to the burning of contaminated plastics, which in turn produces toxic gases, worsening air pollution.
The Risks Involved
Without proper and scientific management of waste, everyone involved – from patients to the workers handling the waste – are at risk. Discarded masks and gloves pose significant dangers to sanitation workers who often work without adequate protection or training to handle such hazardous material.
Suggested Measures
Left-over food, disposable plates, glasses, used masks, tissues, toiletries, etc., used by Covid-19 patients should be put in yellow-coloured bags, while used gloves should be put in red bags for sterilization and recycling at CBWTFs. Also, deep burial systems must be properly maintained as per protocols to prevent environmental harm.
Awareness and Partnerships
The CPCB should take further initiatives to create mass awareness about the correct disposal of Covid-19 biomedical waste. Possible measures include conducting programs on Doordarshan, All India Radio, and other media platforms.
The government should also consider setting up recycling plants across the country under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, especially under the Smart cities project umbrella.
Regulating and Incentivizing Solutions
The Centre should establish a national protocol that combines the Biomedical Waste Management Rules, 2016, with the guidelines on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for producers of plastic. Start-ups and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that offer solutions for Covid-19 waste segregation and treatment should be incentivized.
Continual Monitoring
Constant and regular monitoring is essential to ensure compliance with waste management regulations. This should involve central and state PCBs, Health Departments in the states/UTs, and a high-level task team at the Central level coordinated by the CPCB.
