Disposal and utility of municipal solid waste (MSW) in China

The basic demands of municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal are the prevention of hazards to public health, reduction in the quantity and volume, and recycling of waste materials. The solid waste in China is typically of high moisture content, low heat value, and low grade quality. In this paper, the current status of MSW disposal in China, including its strong and weak aspects, is discussed, pointing out that the objective for future development should be the recycling of waste materials. Government policies concerning MSW disposal and their implementation are also discussed.