Understanding waste management at airports: A study on current practices and challenges based on literature review

One of the major environmental challenges faced by the aviation industry is the sustainable management of solid waste at airports. Rising passenger volumes and expansion of airport activities have considerably increased the types and quantities of waste generated at airports. With many regional and national governments emphasizing on waste diversion from landfills, numerous airports are gradually transitioning to sustainable alternatives. Despite being a pressing issue, there is limited literature on waste management initiatives and their efficiency at airports. This has become more vital since the outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which has had a significant impact on the generation and management of wastes, especially at airports. This article conducts a systematic review of the various aspects of airport waste management, viz. the types and sources of wastes generated, the management practices adopted for the different waste streams, and the associated challenges. The waste generation trends and management models at different airports have been explored to develop a knowledge base for decision-makers and policy analysts. The article also identifies potential challenges lying ahead for the aviation industry with respect to waste management post-COVID-19.