Daily human’s activities produce waste which, since it is considered useless, is mostly thrown away. Many of these waste materials can be reused however and, if properly handled, can also become a resource for industrial or energy production. The way we live today generates massive quantities of waste and most people want to maintain their lifestyle, while preserving the environment and public health. Waste management has become one of the most critical issues today. Businesses, citizens and policymakers pursue ways to minimize the waste generated from most homes and businesses while reusing or disposing it in a cleaner and cost-effective way. The aim of this paper is to provide background information on these issues and challenges involved in urban solid waste management and to provide a basis for input on relevant European actions carried out.