Source-based waste treatment system most effective in developing states
(From left) Guro Kobberstad Dysthe, Lisa Ovencrotert, Tania Markussen and Siri Haver a press meet in February 2013 (File Pic)
Alappuzha: Four students from the Oslo and Akershus University, Norway, who did research on the social impact of waste disposal and management in Alappuzha and its surroundings last year, have applauded the system in vogue in the district. In an e-mail to Deccan Chronicle , Ms Siri Haver, a member of the team which was here in February last year, said she was happy to note that the people of Alappuzha were taking responsibility and changing the way they were handling their garbage.
“Using eco-friendly methods is not only helping the environment, but also is also proving an inspiration in dealing with waste to people around the world,” she said.
The report of the students, Guro Kobberstad Dusthe, Tania Kristine Markussen, Lisa Emilie Frag Ovencrotert and Siri Haver, highlighting the need for scientific methods of waste management, was graded as the best by the Oslo and Akershus University last year. “As a result of our research, we have learned that the problems Keralites face in both cities and rural areas are not isolated to this state or even the country. Seeing that waste management is an issue all over the world, this is a commendable initiative.
This successful model can be followed by people across the world. The growth of the middle class in Kerala is the root cause for the increasing waste accumulated in each family. The source- based waste treatment system is most effective for developing states like Kerala,” Ms Haver said in the e-mail, recalling that the team had spent about two weeks in Alappuzha , conducting in-depth interviews with the localsto find out more about public social norms .
“These qualitative interviews gave us a deeper insight into the mindset of the local populace. The credit for this success should be given to the people of Alappuzha . We hope the model will become a solution for Kerala’s waste treatment problems. We really appreciate the effort of the municipality , the local MLA and other voluntary organisations which made this ambitious project happen,” she added.
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