Paper 49
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This paper is a case study from Vavunia, a rural town in Sri Lanka.
Solid waste generated from human settlements causes problems in many part of the world due to lack of proper disposal facilities. The practice to disposing of solid waste in low lying areas and adjacent to waterways is common in Sri Lanka, as in many other places. This leads to enormous problems and degradation of the environment and ecosystem. Remedial measures were undertaken in Vavunia (a rural town) with the active participation of the women living there. Rural society is closely knit and its members work together better than the residents of urban areas, who are often more cosmopolitan. An affordable, low-technology solid waste disposable system, which could be managed by the women in the community, was established with community participation. This led to income generation and employment opportunities.