Organic waste management reveals methane reduction opportunities in Uganda
Abstract
Environmentally sound organic waste management and landfill diversion can substantially reduce methane emissions and contribute to climate change mitigation. However, effective waste management is also critical for protecting public health, environmental quality, and urban sustainability extending well beyond climate objectives. Here we developed an inclusive National Organic Waste Management Strategy for Uganda through stakeholder engagement and co-design workshops involving local communities, civil society, academia and government representatives, combined with modeling of organic waste treatment pathways and associated co-benefits. The resulting strategy reflects local constraints and development needs while supporting resource recovery and energy generation. Here we show that combining multiple organic waste management interventions could avoid up to 1.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent methane emissions annually by 2035, produce sufficient compost to fertilize approximately 271102 hectares of maize, and generate enough biogas to support the preparation of about 628000 meals each year, strengthening climate resilience, food security and energy access. Up to 1.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent methane emissions yearly could be avoided by 2035, compost could fertilize 271102 hectares of maize, and biogas could support 628000 meals annually; according to a Uganda strategy using stakeholder co-design and modeling of organic waste management.