GOA GENERATES 46% MORE GARBAGE PER CAPITA THAN NATIONAL AVERAGE: Expert
Saligao: November 2024 – Goa’s garbage crisis worsens as the state generates 22 kg of waste per capita annually, exceeding the national average of 15 kg, experts revealed at the MOG Sundays series at Museum of Goa.
Tourism contributes significantly to the problem, with holidaymakers failing to segregate waste. “Visitors, both domestic and foreign, outnumber the native population several times over, adding to the state’s garbage woes,” said Wilma Rodrigues of Saahas Zero Waste.
Goa’s population of 1.4 million is dwarfed by a floating population four to five times larger, resulting in high waste generation. “We are India’s largest consumers of single-use plastics, and paper waste is also a major concern,” Rodrigues added.
Experts urge individuals to take small steps towards waste management. “Reducing waste is within our control,” Rodrigues emphasized.
KEY STATISTICS:
– Goa generates 766 tonnes of waste per day
– Projected waste generation: 888 tonnes/day by 2025, 992 tonnes/day by 2030, and 1,108 tonnes/day by 2035
– India’s waste industry estimated at $12.90 billion in 2024, expected to rise to $17.30 billion by 2029
“Changes in consumer habits and production practices are crucial. Companies must prioritize redesign to reduce non-recyclable waste,” said Jill Ferguson, co-founder of Act for Goa.
Individuals can make a difference by Reducing single-use plastics and paper waste Segregating waste Supporting recycling initiatives and Encouraging companies to adopt sustainable practices
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