Affiliation:
1. Graphic Era University, Dehradun, India
Abstract
The solid wastes generated as a result of human activity have become very complex. Unscientific management of such wastes has resulted in environmental pollution, thereby putting a serious risk to the ecosystem and human health. A sustainable waste management is required for reduced pollution levels as well as for safeguarding the environment for future generation. Biological methods have gained in importance mainly because of its environmentally friendly option for recovering materials and energy. This is true as per the guidelines of “Hierarchy of Sustainable Waste Management.” Composting and anaerobic digestion are two treatment options that is commonly followed in both developing as well as developed countries. The aim of this chapter is thus to address the technical background, advantages, as well as shortfalls related to the waste treatment via biological methods. An up-to-date literature thus presented may be beneficial to the scientists and researchers for working towards further improvement of the present system of waste management.