India's waste sector offers a practical climate opportunity through source segregation and methane reduction

India's waste sector emitted 75.64 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2020, with methane accounting for over 75% of those emissions. A new commentary argues that the biggest climate opportunity lies not at dumpsites but upstream: in household segregation, wet waste processing, and keeping organic material out of landfills. The authors point to existing solutions like composting and biomethanation that don't require new technology, just consistent implementation. Cities like Indore, Alappuzha, and Ambikapur show what works when the full waste chain functions properly. India's updated Solid Waste Management Rules from 2026 also strengthen requirements for bulk waste generators, who produce 30-40% of urban waste. The key challenge is scaling these systems with reliable enforcement, trained workers, and markets for compost and biogas. For carbon markets and climate finance, this is a sector where verified methane avoidance could generate real credits if measurement and monitoring are done right.