Analysis of variables for the modeling of aerobic processes on the treatment of the organic fraction of solid waste in megacities

Abstract

The organic fraction of municipal solid waste (MSW) in megacities is usually managed by composting. In this technique the decomposition and stabilization of organic matter occurs under thermophilic conditions. Currently, composting systems range from simple garden piles and bins to highly engineered computer controlled mechanized processes. Composting is used worldwide, currently treating 5.5% of total urban solid waste. Therefore, modeling aerobic processes becomes important since it is the basis for determining the optimal conditions of the system and a fundamental tool to define its relevance and quantify environmental impacts. However, biological processes such as composting require complex methods and specific software to predict the behavior of organic waste through mathematical models. In the case of the treatment of the organic fraction of urban solid waste, it is necessary to develop this type of models to enhance the recovery of the waste and determine the impacts associated with this technology. For this reason, modeling of organic waste processes is one of the priorities solid waste managing in megacities, where the development of technologies of greater complexity and magnitude is necessary due to the large population. Success in determining feasibility in a predictive model is based on the parameter calibration process. Model results are dependent on the accuracy of the input variables and the way in which the collection and statistical treatment of the information is be carried out. Despite this need, the information associated with the management of solid waste in megacities is often scarce and incomplete. This is usually due to the poor information systems available in many countries for recording all the stages involved in MSW management. Therefore, this research seeks the determination and standardization of the variables required for the mathematical modeling of aerobic processes of the organic fraction of solid waste in megacities. The proposal includes the definition of technical but also environmental, social, economic, administrative and financial variables for the case study of the megacity of Bogotá (Colombia).