Cities in developing countries are confronted with increasing problems in dealing with urban solid waste. Local governments cannot find the means to cope adequately with organic and inorganic waste from households, markets, factories, hospitals, etc., but are at the same time reluctant to accord any credit to waste pickers making a living from the collection and sale of recyclable waste, and thereby taking part in cleaning the city.This book deals with 'formal' and 'informal' handling of solid waste in an Indian cityBangalore. The municipal services as well as the plight of thousands of men, women and children who make a living from waste are analysed. It also probes into the extensive trade and manufacturing of re-cycled glass, paper and plastics in Bangalore.A major purpose of this book is to advocate collaboration between all concerned in the management of solid waste, with the help of community based organisations, NGOs and the private sector. It helps in linking formal solid waste management, benefiting waste pickers, municipal exchequers, the recycling industry and the urban public at large.

In several Indian cities, including Bangalore, such linkages have been put on the political agenda or have already started. Hence, a good understanding of the role of each category of actors in 'integrated' solid waste management is required, both for scientific reasons and for adequate policy making. The book greatly contributes to the process of meeting these requirements.