Accumulation of biomedical waste due to COVID-19: Concerns and strategies for effective treatment to control the pandemic

Abstract This research paper deals with the pollution impact of biomedical waste (BMW) generation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, at both global and national levels. This discussion is important in the light of clear scientific evidence that apart from the airborne transmission of the disease, the virus also survives on different surfaces carrying with it the risk of infection. Moreover, an investigation is conducted on the generation of biomedical waste in tons/day in India during the COVID period and future projections are also made. In addition, a pioneering study has been carried out to estimate the usage of facemasks in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in India. This paper also provides a feasible solution by adopting a modern perspective towards the handling of BMW generated in the context of the SARS-Cov-2 virus at isolation wards and crematoriums. Stratagem approaches are suggested for the segregation and safe disposal of BMW. The latest availability of disposal facilities has been discussed based on the source data provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Even though a variety of disposal mechanisms are currently being followed in India, deliberations are made with Quantitative and Qualitative disposal deploying the popular incineration technology. The impact of the existing incineration technology on the environment and human health is extensively studied. The study is concluded with the suggestions of an effective measure to control the generation of BMW during the COVID-19 pandemic.