Solid Waste Management in Small Arctic Communities

The basic purpose of a sound solid waste management program is to protect the health of local residents and the environment upon which they depend. Modern technologies and economies-of-scale can allow urban Arctic communities to achieve this end, and aspire to meet regional, national or global stewardship responsibilities. Yet proactive waste management programs remain challenging for small Arctic communities despite the above considerations.

Project goals

• examine best practices in solid waste management among the Arctic States;
• determine the potential need for policy actions to address waste management issues;
• assess the potential for recycling plans that will lower waste and provide revenue, building on Indigenous traditions of “nothing wasted, everything used”;
• examine programs to educate communities;
• raise awareness about waste management and how changes can positively affect them; and assess contaminants issues related to solid waste disposal in the Arctic.