Graphene
research has steadily increased, and its commercialization
in many applications is becoming a reality because of its superior
physicochemical properties and advances in synthesis techniques. However,
bulk-scale production of graphene still requires large amounts of
solvents, electrochemical treatment, or sonication. Recently, a method
was discovered to convert bulk quantities of carbonaceous materials
to graphene using flash Joule heating (FJH) and, so named, flash graphene
(FG). This method can be used to turn various solid wastes containing
the prerequisite element carbon into FG. Globally, more than 2 billion
tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) are generated every year and,
in many municipalities, are becoming unmanageable. The most commonly
used waste management methods include recycling, composting, anaerobic
digestion, incineration, gasification, pyrolysis, and landfill disposal.
However, around 70% of global waste ends up in landfills or open dumps,
while the rest is recycled, composted, or incinerated. Even the various
waste valorization techniques, such as pyrolysis and gasification,
produce some waste residues that have their ultimate destination in
landfills. Thus, technologies that can minimize waste volume or convert
waste into valuable products are required. The thermal treatment process
of FJH for FG production provides both waste volume reduction and
valorization in the form of FG. In this Perspective, we provide an
overview of FJH and its possible applications in various types of
waste conversion/valorization. We describe the typical current MSW
management system as well as the potential for creating FG at various
stages and propose a schematic plan for the incorporation of FG in
MSW management. We also analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,
and threats of MSW as an FG precursor in terms of technical, economic,
environmental, and social sustainability. This valuable waste valorization
and management strategy can help achieve near-zero waste and an economy-boosting
MSW management system.