Background/Objectives

To effectively manage solid waste, Arctic communities must contend with a unique set of challenges. Climatic conditions, lack of human resources, and geographical isolation have contributed to inadequate waste management, which may include dumping, open burning, and comingling of solid waste and sewage. Improperly managed solid waste has negative impacts for the environment and human health including greater methane emissions, pollution of ground and surface water, and adverse health outcomes. This project sought to engage countries around the polar region and Indigenous populations to better understand the challenges and opportunities surrounding public health threats from improperly managed solid waste in small and remote Arctic communities.

Approach/Activities

The research team collected data on the current landscape of challenges and best practices for solid waste management in each of the study countries (with special focus on remote and indigenous communities), emerging trends, and current and future needs. Mapping of stakeholders and interested parties/groups was initially conducted to identify relevant institutions, communities, and representatives to provide a holistic range of perspectives and to inform future engagement efforts. Next, a small-scale, scoping literature review and environmental scan (e.g., grey literature, government and international reports, media) was conducted to better understand waste management practices, public health concerns, innovative solutions being implemented  with the potential for scalability or replicability within the region, and future capacity building needs. Key informant interviews are also being conducted to gather supplemental information on the challenges and solutions to solid waste management practices from various perspectives.

Results/Lessons Learned

Findings were delineated by country, but common themes included: local consolidation or processing of waste to mitigate high transport costs, need for increased awareness about the impact of improperly managed solid waste, desire to divert and repurpose waste to reduce landfilling, and need for low-maintenance solutions (e.g., technology that can be easily repaired and does not require highly trained staff). Information from the literature review and environmental scan, coupled with the findings from the key informant interviews will inform future activities to build capacity for improved solid waste management and public health protection in the Arctic. (Funding for this project was provided via Cooperative Agreement with USEPA. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the USEPA.)