Towards sustainable local development – an example of innovation in the waste management sector

Abstract

Implementation of the concept of sustainable development can take place on different levels. One such area is the care of the environment through the recycling of waste. This paper presents an example of ecological innovation in the waste management sector as part of the implementation of a local strategy for sustainable development. Such projects not only bring economic and social benefits for the inhabitants of a given region, but also primarily serve the needs of the natural environment. The study contains both theoretical and empirical considerations, and uses elements of critical literature analysis, meta-analysis, deduction and case study analysis. Set against a review of the subject literature, the paper contains a description of a specific solution regarding the treatment of municipal waste – Poznan’s Thermal Municipal Waste Treatment Installation. The study shows that the model of cooperation between business and local government through public-private partnership is a response to changes in legislation and meets the objectives of local policy for sustainable development, at the same time making it possible to unify municipal waste management not only within the municipality, but also at regional level.