As India’s updated Solid Waste Management Rules came into effect on April 1, introducing a mandatory new category called ‘special care waste’, Kerala is more than prepared to implement it, according to experts.Once the Assembly elections are over, training programmes for stakeholders will begin. A directive towards adhering to the revised laws has already been communicated to all the local bodies.According to sources, not much may change for households as multiple segregation systems are already in place. Social media campaigns are also being carried out to raise awareness among the community and spread the message.With the State already having been involved in segregating waste since 2016, the revised laws would help enhance its activities, ensuring a more structured and professional approach, said R.S. Ameersha, Suchitwa Mission’s State programme officer. An orientation about the rules will be given for the local bodies, he said.As per the revised rules, stricter regulation and segregation should be carried out at the source, and waste must now be sorted into four categories: wet, dry, sanitary, and special care waste. “Most of what is mentioned in the rules has been implemented in the State already,” he said. He pointed out that Kerala has been following the waste collection calendar since 2016 for all the categories of waste and that this may be updated once the new government is sworn in. “With the revised law, multiple segregation systems will get more impetus and ensure their wider implementation,” he added.In the case of hazardous waste, the already existing team’s work will be streamlined and made more professional. “They will be given special training, provided with personal protection equipment, and collection storage facilities will also be set up,” he added.Renjini S., District Coordinator of the Haritha Keralam Mission (HKM) in Ernakulam, said that while multi-class waste segregation has already been implemented across the district, challenges remain in storing the collected waste. “Delay in the collection of non-biodegradable waste often occurs due to space constraints,” she explained, adding that the issue needed focused attention. She also noted that waste segregation and management are generally easier in rural areas, as they generate less waste, whereas certain urban areas face greater difficulties.Jagajeevan N., a consultant with Suchitwa Mission, said that Kerala has been way ahead with segregation and waste management and that the revised rules are a kind of endorsement of the State’s activities in this regard. “We have not just implemented segregation and efficient management of waste, but have also been carrying out digital monitoring systems. The non-bio waste collected from some 95 lakh houses is being digitally tracked,” said Mr. Jagajeevan.He said that all that needs to be ensured now is 100% compliance and participation. “The rules necessitate strict compliance with waste management practices among bulk waste generators, which could work to our advantage,” he said.Published - April 02, 2026 09:10 pm IST