Waste Plastic Derived Diesel – An Experimental Investigation – Enhancing Engine Performance and Reducing Emissions Through Thermal Barrier Coatings

For cities and communities to be sustainable, healthy, and environmentally friendly, proper solid waste management is essential. Only a small portion of municipal solid waste is properly disposed of in developing nations, the remainder is either left on the streets or dumped in open landfills. Effective solid waste management systems (SWMS) are a priority for most nations, aiming to manage and dispose of daily waste in a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable manner. Present study examines the composition of municipal solid waste (MSW) in Jammu city, highlighting distinct patterns across various socioeconomic groups. The assessment of solid waste generation is based on key socioeconomic parameters such as education, occupation, family income and household size. The socioeconomic status of respondents was determined using Kuppuswamy’s scale and a structured questionnaire survey was conducted to identify the influence of socioeconomic factors on waste generation rates and composition. The findings reveal that the average waste generation rate in Jammu city is 0.53 kg/capita/day, with the middle socioeconomic group (MSEG) producing the highest amount at 0.75 kg/capita/day. Waste characterization indicates that the MSEG generates the largest proportion of biodegradable waste (55.36%), whereas inert waste is most prevalent (44.34%) in the lower socioeconomic group (LSEG). Higher-income groups contribute a greater share of recyclable waste (paper, plastic, glass and metal), reflecting their increased consumption of processed and packaged goods. Additionally, the proportion of inorganic and non-compostable waste decreases as socioeconomic status declines. This study provides valuable insights into the relationship between socioeconomic factors and household waste generation. The findings emphasize the need for tailored waste management strategies that account for socioeconomic disparities to effectively address the diverse composition of MSW in urban areas, like Jammu City. This study provides a valuable framework for future research and policy development, emphasizing the need for data-driven, inclusive approaches to address the growing challenge of urban waste management in rapidly developing cities, like Jammu.