Environmental Impact Caused by Open Waste Burning Activity in Asia

Open waste burning (OWB) is a source of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) such as CH4, BC, and CO₂, as well as other primary air pollutants such as total suspended particulates (TSP), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrous oxide (NO^x), and sulfur dioxide (SO₂). This study aims to estimate the total OWB emissions from OWB activity. This study used data from published online reports, global waste-management inventories, and scientific articles. The analysis was conducted based on the IPCC 2006 guidelines, and the equation for estimation was modified from the IPCC. The study found that South Asia became the primary contributor to open waste burning emissions, accounting for 39.5% of the total OWB activities in Asia. Meanwhile, low-to middle-income countries contribute to the highest total burned waste, accounting for 61.2%. The findings highlight the urgent need for policy interventions and alternative waste management solutions to mitigate OWB emissions and their associated health and environmental impacts.