Waste management planning in the Maldives

Enriching project #30 376 of 31 000. The island paradise of the Maldives attracts many tourists every year, but more people means more waste and a greater impact on the environment. Sweco has therefore been chosen by the Maldivan Ministry of Environment to assist in finding a good solution for management of waste on the islands.

In the assignment, Sweco has been given responsibility for detail design of the new waste management facility and preparation of drawings, technical solutions and possible financing models. Due to the risk of a tsunami, it is also crucial for Sweco to design a structure capable of withstanding high waves and powerful vibrations.

Many of the islands in the Maldives are only a few meters above sea level. In view of the effects of global warming, it has been important that Sweco’s solution is not vulnerable to rising sea levels. Another challenge has been to develop a feasible system for waste collection via boat transports.

Sweco’s solution includes composting and recycling as critical means for reducing waste volumes.