Abstract
This study aimed to analyse biodegradable solid waste (BSW) flows and identify the stakeholders of BSW recycling in cities of central Vietnam. Sampling survey and social survey were conducted to collect data. Material flow analysis was utilised to analyse the flow of the BSW. Results denoted that the generated BSW flowed in five directions namely home husbandry, home composting, formal collecting without separation, segregated collection by informal sectors and leakage to the environment. Proportions of such waste streams are not the same across city types, waste management systems, and consumer markets. The daily biodegradable waste generation amounts were estimated at 612.12 tons in Danang city (DNC), 318.65 tons in Hue city (HUC), and 65.28 tons in Hoi An city (HAC). Most of biodegradable waste was managed by the formal waste collection system with 89 %, 73 %, and 88 % for DNC, HUC, and HAC. Interestingly, HAC was the only area operating composting facility with 49 % of biodegradable waste being recycled. The study also revealed an unsung informal sector of the BSW, operating in an unforeseen routine compared with itinerant recyclable-waste buyers.
