Study of Scrap Waste in Kathmandu Valley

Abstract

Scrap wastes are the wastes which are the part of the solid waste, segregated and
taken further for reusing and recycling from the mixed waste. This scrap waste is
called the Kabadi Waste in Nepal. The objective of this study is to identify the scrap
waste material and assess collection and business activity of scrap waste generated
with in Kathmandu Valley. Direct observations, formal and informal discussion, field
study with questionnaire were used for data acquisition. 33 random samples, out of
178 scrap shop were selected for study. During the period of this study waste from
transfer station was not allowed to collect by outsiders except by the employed person
of the municipality. The composition of scrap waste consisted of 32.49% glasses,
23.89% papers, 22.65% plastics and others (metals, textile, leather and rubber)
20.97%. Among those reusable material consisted of 38.96% and 44.77% was
recyclable materials; remaining could be either recycled or reused. 41% of scrap
waste collection was done through door to door by cycle hawker. 53% of the scrap
waste was found recycled or reuse in Nepal. Similarly, 45% of scrap dealers
processed scrap for further recycling. 36% of the Kabadi shop has employed less than
10 people for the waste collection. Now, people from lower casts were also found
involved in this business. This study clearly indicates the significance of scrap waste
which is a part of Municipal Solid Waste.