What is this tool intended for? 

WasteMAP is designed to address methane emissions from solid waste. The tool aims to raise awareness, improve emissions transparency, and promote effective mitigation strategies. It empowers stakeholders to integrate sustainable waste management practices into policy and planning while contributing to global climate targets. 

How does this tool work? 

The tool offers different functions:

• Interactive Mapping: Displays global methane emissions from solid waste sites using geospatial data. This feature provides a clear visual understanding of emission hotspots worldwide, making it easier to prioritize interventions. 
• Scenario Modeling: Through the embedded Decision Support Tool, users can explore how different waste management approaches—such as increased composting, recycling, or landfill gas capture—affect methane emissions. Adjustments to parameters like waste diversion rates or the proportion of landfills with gas capture systems enable tailored analysis. 
• Impact Analysis: Outputs include annual methane emission estimates based on user-defined scenarios, helping to quantify the benefits of adopting sustainable waste strategies. 
• Data Accessibility: Users can download datasets for deeper analysis, supporting integration into broader research or policy frameworks. 

Who might use this tool and with which types of stakeholders? 

Primary Users are waste management planners and climate change professionals. Other stakeholders are policymakers, municipal authorities, environmental NGOs, researchers, and urban planners involved in waste mitigation projects. 

What stages of a process can this tool support? 

The tool is useful for: 

• Mapping and assessment of baseline methane emissions. 
• Scenario development for potential mitigation measures. 
• Evaluating the effectiveness of different waste management policies and practices. 

What skills, capabilities, and resources are required to use this tool? 

Users need a basic understanding of waste systems and methane's environmental impact. 

Where can this tool be used? 

WasteMAP is globally applicable but particularly valuable for urban and regional authorities in countries or areas with poorly managed waste systems.