Journal of Global Ecology and Environment

In the face of rapid urbanization and escalating environmental challenges, effective household solid waste (HSW) management has become a critical priority for climate-vulnerable megacities such as Dhaka, Bangladesh. This research presents a comprehensive characterization of HSW generated across diverse socio-economic zones in Dhaka, aiming to assess its composition, quantify its energy potential, and identify scalable pathways for 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) optimization and sustainable energy recovery. Employing a stratified sampling framework, household waste samples were collected and analyzed from high-, middle-, and low-income communities across both Dhaka North and South City Corporations. Complementary qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including municipal officials, waste workers, and informal recyclers, to triangulate findings and inform context-responsive recommendations. The compositional analysis revealed that biodegradable and organic waste accounted for approximately 69.1% of the total waste stream, followed by plastics (11.3%), paper (7.4%), metals (1.5%), and inert materials (10.7%). Proximate and ultimate analyses confirmed that the calorific value of the combustible fraction averaged 3,850–4,400 kcal/kg, indicating significant energy recovery potential via thermal or bioenergy routes. However, high moisture content in biodegradable fractions necessitates pre-treatment or segregation strategies to enhance processing efficiency. The findings underscore both the environmental burden and the latent resource potential embedded within Dhaka's HSW. Spatial and socio-economic disparities in waste generation patterns highlight the need for decentralized and equity-focused 3R frameworks. Integrating community-based sorting mechanisms, digital monitoring systems, and AI-enhanced material recovery could substantially boost recycling rates and reduce landfill dependency. The study proposes a multi-tiered intervention model combining behavioral change, policy incentives, and technology-enabled waste valorization, aligning with national circular economy goals and international climate resilience agendas. This research provides actionable insights for policymakers, municipal planners, and development agencies seeking to transition Dhaka toward a circular and low-carbon waste economy. It also establishes a replicable methodology for waste characterization in other Global South megacities grappling with similar sustainability challenges.