The Waste Flow Diagram (WFD) is a rapid assessment tool that maps municipal solid waste flows and estimates plastic waste leakage into the terrestrial and aquatic environment. It is developed for cities in low- and middle-income countries. It can be used both as baseline assessment and for scenario forecasting – supporting the planning and monitoring of waste and marine litter interventions.

The WFD is a freely-available, excel-based tool to be applied by experienced waste experts and consultants. It requires data inputs on the municipal solid waste management as well as the systematic assessment of all waste management stages from collection to final disposal. Cities and towns without updated and reliable waste data are encouraged to conduct primary data collection exercises based on the methodology of SDG indicator 11.6.1. The WFD is based on this methodology. Further guidance and assistance is available, among others through online courses.