LAUSR

Abstract Rapid urbanization, exponentially growing human count and industrial expansion has made it problematic to manage the municipal solid wastes throughout the globe. In developing countries like India, decentralized waste management systems have induced difficult scenario. The total solid wastes generated in the country, due to various cultural, social and religious activities, are about 40%-50%organic in nature and contributing in the environmental pollution (air, water and soil) as well as human health troubles. It is also significant to manage the organic flower waste, as it is being discarded after single use in many religious rituals, social celebrations etc. and amounts to approximately 4.74 x 106 t/d, in the country. Flower waste can be managed by converting it into consumable herbal products such as incense sticks, perfumes, interior decorative items, natural colors for cotton & silk products, composts, bio-gas etc. Some researchers have developed ecofriendly bio-sorbents to remove toxic dyes and heavy metals (using flower petals) from the aqueous solutions. In addition, properly managed disposal of floral waste will help in reduction of the environmental pollution as well as in achieving about 60% sustainable development goals suggested by United Nations.