Municipal solid waste management in Rabat City, Morocco

Abstract

For sustainable municipal solid waste management in Rabat City, Morocco, it is essential to characterize the waste by analyzing its composition. The aim of this study is to carry out a physical waste characterization in January and July 2023, integrating seasonal variations and considering different social stratification to reflect socioeconomic realities. The results obtained show that organic matter represents the predominant waste fraction, exceeding 57% in both periods. The quantities of paper (3.10% in summer, 4.12% in winter) and plastic (12.64% in summer, 8.50% in winter) collected vary according to the seasons, reflecting changes in consumption and professional or educational activities. In addition, hygienic waste is affected (4.43% in summer, 2.31% in winter). Household income is crucial. High-income households produce less organic waste (42%) but more combustible waste (47.83%), while low-income households produce more organic waste (59%). This study demonstrates that the characterization of household waste is the first necessary step to design a sustainable waste management strategy in Rabat City.