Inorganic Waste Management and Energy Potential: Implications for Agricultural Sustainability

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the potential of inorganic waste as an energy source at TPS 3R Kasih (Indonesian waste management facility), a waste management site currently facing challenges with effective solid waste segregation. A comprehensive assessment was performed by analyzing heap size, waste composition, density, and energy potential through proximate and ultimate tests. The findings revealed that the site generates an average of 12.34 tons of waste per week, with inorganic waste accounting for 23.28%. Further examination of this inorganic waste, comprising of Hard Plastic (3.18%), Ordinary Plastic (10.97%), Paper/Carton (6.84%), Rubber/Fabric (3.65%), and Wood (2.30%), indicated its significant potential as Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) fluff. Upon processing, the RDF fluff presented a calorific value of 4,708 Kcal/kg, Moisture of 2.1%, Ash Content of 3.7%, and Volatile Matter of 85.2%. These characteristics make it a potential alternative fuel source for the cement industry. The study concludes that effective waste segregation and processing at TPS 3R Kasih could transform inorganic waste into a valuable energy source, highlighting the significant implications for waste-to-energy strategies and the reduction of dependency on fossil fuels.