Capacity building towards sustainability: Context of post disaster waste management

Concept of Capacity Building is an essential component in development theory and practice. In developing countries, it is identified as a key concept in achieving sustainability. In particular, in post disaster scenarios, focus has been placed upon local capacity building as a means of increasing resilience to natural hazards. In this context, this paper focuses on concept of capacity building and its role on achieving sustainable post disaster waste management. A literature review and pilot study have been conducted to gather information on post disaster waste management in Sri Lanka. Semi-structured interviews were held as the main data collection method and content analysis was used to analyse collected data. Unavailability of a centralized body, poor implementation of rules and regulations; lack of skills and confidence, inadequate funds, lack of communication and coordination were identified as prevailing capacity gaps in post disaster waste management. Thus, finally paper proposes a framework for capacity building for sustainable post disaster waste management.