A Framework for Zero Waste Initiative Assessment in Small Industries of South Indian Coastal Towns within Gambia: Resource Management and Environmental Sustainability

This study focuses on the implementation of a Zero Waste Initiative (ZWI) in small industries within coastal towns of South India, with a specific emphasis on environmental sustainability and resource management. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis will be employed to assess the feasibility and impact of ZWI implementation. The theoretical framework established can serve as a basis for developing ZWI strategies tailored to South Indian coastal towns, contributing to environmental sustainability goals while considering economic feasibility. Implementing waste reduction programmes should prioritise training and awareness campaigns among small industry workers. Additionally, supportive policies and incentives from local governments are recommended to facilitate adoption of sustainable practices. The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.