Application of Life Cycle Assessment for Techno-Economic Evaluation of Rural Solid Waste Management Strategies: Significance of CO2 Emission Control from Waste Management Sector in Abyaneh Village, Isfahan Province

Abstract

Waste disposal in the current situation, which quantity and variety of waste are increasing, needs not only effective management principles but also depends on environmentally-friendly methods to put as less environmental footprint as possible. This study aims to assess the energy consumption, emission of greenhouse gases and air pollutants which normally produce during various waste management scenarios in Abyaneh. The next objective of this research is to choose the best management method and practice which is completely compatible with the environment. In order to reach these goals, after sampling and waste analysis in terms of quantity and quality, results analysis for nine scenarios was conducted. These scenarios, considered for life cycle assessment, are combination of four waste disposal methods including landfill, recycling, composting and incineration. Life cycle inventory was done by IWM-1 model. The potential of economic saving and greenhouse gases and air pollutants emission reduction in various waste management approaches in Abyaneh were evaluated. It was shown that scenarios number 6, 5 and 2 with combination of landfill, recycling and composting methods have the least negative impacts on the environment. Also, the mentioned scenarios were found to be cost effective as they are not accompanied by greenhouse gas and acid gas emission. As produced waste in Abyaneh is consisted of 38.8% and 59% recyclable and compostable waste respectively, the mentioned scenarios can be viable options for effective waste management and can play an important role in reduction of environmental problems in this village.