Sustainable Waste Management Approach Research Articles

Pathway decisions for reuse and recycling of retired lithium-ion batteries considering economic and environmental functions

Reuse and recycling of retired electric vehicle (EV) batteries offer a sustainable waste management approach but face decision-making challenges. Based on the process-based life cycle assessment method, we present a strategy to optimize pathways of retired battery treatments economically and environmentally. The strategy is applied to various reuse scenarios with capacity configurations, including energy storage systems, communication base stations, and low-speed vehicles. Hydrometallurgical, pyrometallurgical, and direct recycling considering battery residual values are evaluated at the end-of-life stage. For the optimized pathway, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries improve profits by 58% and reduce emissions by 18% compared to hydrometallurgical recycling without reuse. Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) batteries boost profit by 19% and reduce emissions by 18%. Despite NMC batteries exhibiting higher immediate recycling returns, LFP batteries provide superior long-term benefits through reuse before recycling. Our strategy features an accessible evaluation framework for pinpointing optimal pathways of retired EV batteries.

Evaluation of waste composition for biochar production as a sustainable waste management approach

Background: To meet human life needs, fuel energy is obtained from fossil sources, such as coal, found in the Earth's crust. However, non-renewable energy sources in the Earth's crust will eventually run out. One alternative fuel is the production of biobriquettes from various types of waste. Methods: Using a literature review method, this study aims to determine which waste is most suitable for use in the production of biobriquettes. The samples taken are journals sourced from Google Scholar ranging from 2017 to 2022 that align with the discussion topic. Findings: Among various raw materials, the best waste for biobriquette production is found to be a mixture of dacron waste and corn cob, with a moisture content of 3.45% and a carbon value of 7986.45 cal/g. Conclusion: The results of the above study indicate that the production of biobriquettes from dakron waste and corn cobs is the best option because it yields the highest calorific value and the lowest moisture content, in accordance with SNI 01/6235/2000. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study presents a novel approach by identifying a specific combination of dacron waste and corn cob for biobriquette production, showcasing its superior calorific value and low moisture content, thus contributing to sustainable energy solutions and waste management practices.

Sustainable waste management solutions: Optimization of hybrid and gasification waste-to-energy plants

This study investigates an urban waste management model to integrate different energy generation technologies and waste processing routes in a megastructure with thermal, biological, and recyclable superstructures. The model was simulated for three metropolitan regions in Brazil, with waste transportation between existing landfills to improve energy generation efficiency and financial income. The gasification appears as a promising alternative to the originally modeled hybrid incineration configuration. Results suggest that the overall financial performance of plants benefits when the utilization of the thermal superstructure is restricted in smaller plants, with waste mass flow of less than 6 kg/s. Gasification is preferred for bigger plants, with paybacks of up to 11 years, net present value of 2 billion dollars, and an internal rate of return of 20.32 % in the most likely scenario without subsidies. The study shows significant increase in attractiveness by the utilization of waste-collecting taxes, for which a payback of 6 years was reached, demonstrating it as a financially interesting. The internal rate of return results confirms the economic feasibility of the business for scenarios with waste-collection taxes. Integrating gasification technology in municipal waste management into the megastructure model emerges as a promising approach for sustainable waste management and energy generation.

Advancing towards greener healthcare: Innovative solutions through single-use mask waste to refuse-derived fuel utilization

The healthcare sector faces increasing challenges in managing the environmental impact of single-use masks and medical waste, prompting the exploration of innovative solutions for greener healthcare. This study investigates converting single-use mask waste into Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable waste management approach. A quantitative analysis assessed the average waste generation of single-use masks in a healthcare facility over three months. The potential RDF production was estimated by calculating single-use masks' weight and calorific value. Additionally, Thermogravimetric Analysis was employed to evaluate the thermal behavior of RDF and its suitability as an alternative fuel source. The findings indicate an average monthly waste generation of 41,555 masks weighing 111.2 kg. RDF production from single-use mask waste yields a daily output of 3.706 kg, providing a promising solution to reduce medical waste. TGA analysis reveals a multi-step degradation process for RDF, with a significant mass loss between 300 and 500 °C, rendering it a viable renewable energy source. Converting single-use mask waste into RDF presents an opportunity for healthcare institutions to contribute to net-zero emission goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and embracing sustainable waste management practices.

The Relationship between Waste Management Practices and Human Health: New Perspective and Consequences

Waste management, an integral aspect of modern life, exerts a profound influence on both public health and the environment. While existing research explores the environmental impact of various waste management practices, there is a paucity of studies investigating the direct health effects on humans from these practices. This article aims to address this gap by examining the intricate interplay between specific waste management strategies, such as open burning or landfill leachate management, and their potential to cause respiratory illnesses, birth defects, or other health problems in urban areas. Drawing from existing knowledge and recent research, it underscores the imperative of adopting an integrated waste management approach that harmonizes environmental preservation and health considerations. Furthermore, the review spotlights emerging technologies and innovative methodologies that hold promise in mitigating potential health hazards associated with conventional waste management practices. It accentuates the intricate connection between waste management and human health, underscoring the need for holistic strategies that encompass both community welfare and environmental sustainability. This paper advocates for sustainable waste management approaches that not only alleviate health concerns but also promote resource recovery and community engagement. Policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders are encouraged to collaborate in the adoption of effective waste management methods that safeguard both the environment and human health. By recognizing the intrinsic link between environmental and health issues, a harmonized approach can be forged to address them.

Utilizing machine learning to integrate silica-based production waste material in ceramic tiles manufacturing: Progressing toward sustainable solutions

The production of ceramic tiles is an intricate process of combining modern technology with ancient craftsmanship, which creates versatile and durable finished surfaces for various construction applications. The manufacturing of ceramic tiles causes the production of significant waste during different production stages such as shaping, firing, and finishing leading to environmental degradation and depletion of resources. Therefore, this research work was planned to investigate the possibility of utilizing ceramic waste in the manufacturing of ceramic tiles. Two types of ceramic waste, namely glaze waste and body waste were used with 5–10% replacement of different materials in the production of ceramic tile. The results revealed that up to 10% of the waste produced during the manufacturing of ceramic tiles can successfully be reused in the manufacturing of ceramic tiles. The ceramic tiles produced with 10% replacement of feldspar satisfied the minimum criteria of flexural strength, shrinkage, and water absorption supported by scanning electron microscopy findings. Moreover, a machine learning model was developed using six input variables, i.e., feldspar (F), three different types of clays (C1, C2, and C3), body waste (BW) and glaze waste (GW), while three variables, i.e., firing shrinkage (SF), flexure strength (FS) and water absorption (WA), as output. Applying a machine learning approach to data revealed that the model, i.e., artificial neural network (ANN), exhibited strong and consistent performance, displaying notable generalization capabilities (with an R2 greater than 0.95 on the test set). This study aims to shape sustainable waste management approaches and establishes a blueprint for harnessing ceramic waste with the potential to be a primary resource in the production of ceramic tiles.

Investigation of Zero Waste Management Behavior in Turkey

<p>Population growth, industrialization and technological advances have significantly increased waste production, waste collection, transportation and disposal induced significant costs. Waste could be considered a resource that allows nations to reduce the consumption of primary raw materials, protect natural resources and improve economic revenues by reducing environmental pressures. Zero waste approach for sustainable waste management has been approved and implemented globally. The present study aimed to investigate the basic zero-waste management in Turkey. Thus a scale that included eight items was developed and validity and reliability of the scale were analyzed. Explanatory factor analysis (EFA) was initially applied. Then, the fitness of the model was tested with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Cronbach's α (internal consistency coefficient) was calculated as 0.778. Chi-square test, RMSEA, GFI and CFI fit indices were employed in the first-order confirmatory factor analysis conducted on the whole sample. Chi-square was calculated as 1.310 in confirmatory factor analysis. Also, comparative and absolute fit indices were determined as follows: RMSEA=0.035, GFI=0.976, CFI=0.987, RMR=0.030. The analysis of the findings revealed that “Zero Waste Management Behavior” scale fit indices demonstrated excellent model fit for the findings. Furthermore, there were no significant differences between one-way ANOVA and T test results on participant statements based on gender, while there were significant differences between these variables based on age, education level and the region of residence.</p>

Cotton-based fabric waste to microcrystalline cellulose: a sustainable waste management approach

The escalating accumulation of textile waste in landfill sites poses a significant environmental hazard that requires immediate intervention.

EXPLORING THE SUITABILITY OF FRUIT AND VEGETABLE WASTES FOR BIOMETHANE AND ELECTRICITY GENERATION

The exploration of sustainable energy sources, such as biomethane, has become essential due to the increasing global population and demand for food and energy. This study aims to investigate the potential production of biomethane and electricity generation from fruit and vegetable waste. The fruit and vegetable waste used in this research was collected from student hostels at the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Sahaf Restaurant, Mima Restaurant, Mama Ojo Restaurant, Dan Sadi Restaurant, and IBC Restaurant in Malumfashi. The research involves laboratory analysis of the fruit and vegetable waste samples, focusing on their nutrient composition, biomethane potential, and electrical potential. Proximate analysis was used to determine the nutrient characterization, while the Baserga model was used to predict the biomethane potential. Proximate analysis revealed a total solid content of 95.92%, a volatile solid content of 86.5%, a crude protein content of 0.14%, a nitrogen-free extract of 76.96%, a crude fiber of 6.1%, and a crude fat of 3.3%. According to the Baserga model, a significant biomethane yield of 864.4 L/kg volatile solids, with a methane content of 57%, can be expected. The findings also indicate that complete degradation of fresh organic matter from fruit and vegetable waste can generate 748m3/ton of gas. Furthermore, the study predicts an electricity potential of 1601 kWh/ton of fresh fruit and vegetable waste. Based on these findings, the study recommends the use of fruit and vegetable waste as biomass for energy production to address landfilling issues and promote a more sustainable waste management approach.

Development of waste-to-energy through integrated sustainable waste management: the case of ABREN WtERT Brazil towards changing status quo in Brazil.

In the context of circular economy, it is known that once waste is generated, it should be subject to proper treatment for recovering material or energy before being disposed. Many countries worldwide, especially developing countries such asBrazil, have been struggling to effectively apply sustainable waste management in municipalities and still rely on dumpsites and unsuitable landfills. Misinformation, aweak legal framework, lack of financial resources and poor infra-structure as well as pressure from organizations profiting from the expansion of landfills are some factors contributing to the preservation of the negative status quo: the "landfill culture". Material recovery, i.e., recycling and composting, is applied to less than 5% of Brazilian municipal waste, while 95% is disposed ofin landfills or dumpsites. In this context, ABREN WtERT(Waste-to-Energy Research and Technology Council) Brazil was created in 2019 as the first permanent organization formed to promote the development of energy and material recovery from waste focused on thewaste-to-energy(WTE) market. In this paper, the strategy proposed and implemented by the organization towards changing the status quo in Brazil through an integrated sustainable waste management approachis described. The proposed strategy integrates theconcepts of Sustainability and Circular Economy for minimizing landfill disposal (avoiding methane emissions) and maximizing material/energy recovery. Among others, the approach focuses on changing the public opinion regarding thermal treatment facilities, mainly incinerators, which has been wrongly linked to pollution, excessive public expenditures and considered a harm to the recycling industry. The activities performed by ABREN include engaging public and private institutions, enhancing education, leading the publication of research and business studies, gathering industry members and academy experts, as well as creating strategic alliances with players around the globe. As a result, within a few years, major outcomes were achieved in Brazil, such as: (i) changes in the legal framework, (ii) launching of a specific public auction category for sponsoring electricity production from WTEfacilities, and(iii) establishment of official targets for municipalities to decrease landfill disposal and increase recycling/biological treatment and energy recovery from thermal treatment. Among the national goals, it should be highlighted the target regarding the increase from zero to 994MW of electricity production from municipal solid waste, which will require building dozens of new WTEfacilities. Global outcomes are expected as well since Brazil is the seventh largest country of the globe and the most influential in Latin America. Internationaland national business deals should thrive due to the need of operational skillsandtechnology imports, and the avoidance of carbon emissions will positivelyreflect the world climate. In parallel, there is also potential for the academy to benefit from research projects and investments if the WTEnational industry is to be developed in the long term.

Knowledge management approach for sustainable waste management: evolving a conceptual framework

Knowledge management approach for sustainable waste management: evolving a conceptual framework

Phytotoxicity evaluation of nutrient-fortified pomegranate peel powders prepared from food waste and their feasibility as biofertilizers

AbstractPomegranate peel powder (PPP) is increasingly used as a bioadsorbent to decontaminate wastewaters due to its adsorptive characteristics. The application of nutrient-fortified bioadsorbents as alternatives to chemical fertilizers can provide an innovative and eco-friendly approach for sustainable waste management. Nevertheless, there is extremely limited information regarding their effects on the growth of agricultural crops. We investigated the effects of raw and nutrient-fortified PPPs on oilseed rape (Brassica napus). Our results showed that the concentration-dependent in vitro phytotoxicity of high PPP doses (germination indices were 109.6%, 63.9%, and 8.9% at the applied concentrations of 0.05%, 0.5%, and 5%) was diminished by the application of nutrient-fortified PPPs (germination indices were 66.0–83.4% even at the highest doses). In pot experiments, most PPP treatments (especially Raw-PPP and the mixture of N- and P-fortified PPPs) promoted the development of aboveground plant parts. Reorganization of the pattern of protein tyrosine nitration in the root tissues indicated that the plants were acclimated to the presence of PPPs, and thus, PPP treatment induced no or low-level stress. Our findings confirmed that several doses of PPP supplementation were beneficial for the model crop plant when applied in soil. We anticipate that our study will be a foundation for future investigations involving more plant species and soil types, which can contribute to the introduction of nutrient-fortified PPPs as sustainable biofertilizers.

Solid-state fermentation of Saba banana peel for pigment production by Monascus purpureus.

Eco-friendly natural pigment demand has ever-increasing popularity due to health and environmental concerns. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility use of Saba banana peel as low-cost fermentable substrate for the production of pigments, xylanase and cellulase enzymes by Monascus purpureus. Among the strains tested, M. purpureus TISTR 3385 produced pigments better and had higher enzyme activities. Under the optimal pigment-producing conditions at the initial moisture content of 40% and initial pH of 6.0, the pigments comprising yellow, orange, and red produced by the fungi were achieved in the range of 0.40-0.93 UA/g/day. The maximum xylanase and cellulase activities of 8.92 ± 0.46 U/g and 4.72 ± 0.04 U/g were also obtained, respectively. More importantly, solid-state fermentation of non-sterile peel could be achieved without sacrificing the production of the pigments and both enzymes. These indicated the potential use of the peel as fermentable feedstock for pigment production by the fungi and an environmental-friendly approach for sustainable waste management and industrial pigment and enzyme application.

Natural and industrial wastes for sustainable and renewable polymer composites

By-products management from industrial and natural (agriculture, aviculture, and others) activities and products are critical for promoting sustainability, reducing pollution, increasing storage space, minimising landfills, reducing energy consumption, and facilitating a circular economy. One of the sustainable waste management approaches is utilising them in developing biocomposites. Biocomposites are eco-friendly materials because of their sustainability and environmental benefits that have comparable performance properties to the synthetic counterparts. Biocomposites can be developed from both renewable and industrial waste, making them both energy efficient and sustainable. Because of their low weight and high strength, biocomposite materials in applications such as automobiles can minimise fuel consumption and conserve energy. Furthermore, biocomposites in energy-based applications could lead to savings in both the economy and energy consumption. Herein, a review of biocomposites made from various wastes and their related key properties (e.g. mechanical and fire) are provided. The article systematically highlights the individual wastes/by-products from agriculture and materials processing industries for composites manufacturing in terms of their waste components (materials), modifications, resultant properties, applications and energy efficiency. Finally, a perspective for the future of biowastes and industrial wastes in polymer composites is discussed.

Knowledge management approach for sustainable waste management: evolving a conceptual framework.

Knowledge management approach for sustainable waste management: evolving a conceptual framework.

Biowaste composting process - comparison of a rotary drum composter and open container

Composting is recognized as a sustainable waste management approach in which microorganisms treat and stabilize biodegradable waste under aerobic conditions to obtain compost as a final product. In this paper, composting of biowaste in a rotary drum composter (closed system) and an open container (open system) was compared. Temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, a carbon-to-nitrogen mass ratio (C/N ratio) and contents of moisture, carbon and dry and volatile matter, were measured during composting. Results showed decreasing profiles for moisture, volatile matter, and carbon contents, as well as for the C/N ratio, while increasing profiles for the dry matter content and electrical conductivity during composting in both systems. Leachates were formed only during the first three days of composting and were characterized with high organic loads, high ammonia concentrations, low pH, and high conductivity and turbidity. The organic matter content data during the composting process were analysed according to the first order kinetic model. Results suggested that there was a difference in the rate of organic matter decomposition, which was higher when composting in the open vessel than in the rotary drum composter.

Waste Management Behavior of Households in Klang Valley, Malaysia

Enhancing demand side management is among the focus of Malaysia in its effort to pursue green growth throughout 2016 to 2020. Per capita waste disposal in the country is 0.3 to 1.2 kg and only a mere 2% is recycled. There is huge potential for reducing solid wastes in the country through a more sustainable waste management approach such as reducing, recycling and proper disposal. This paper explores the result of a quantitative study conducted via a survey questionnaire on 118 households around Klang Valley. Applying the protection motivation theory, an ordinary least squares regression is applied to data to determine the significant factors affecting waste management behavior of households. Several elements of waste management behavior are investigated, such as waste avoidance, green purchases and reuse and recycle behavior. Results of study show that coping and threat appraisal processes significantly affect waste disposal and reuse and recycle behavior. For green purchasing and waste avoidance behavior, they are affected by coping appraisal but not threat appraisal process. The study suggests that if the government can promote the information on how severe contaminated environments can have on humans and their surroundings, it can lead to more responsible disposal of waste as well as can increase reuse and recycling activities of households. Apart from that, highlighting the positive impact an individual person’s action can bring to the environment may increase reuse and recycling, waste avoidance and disposal and green purchase activities of the society, particularly the households.

The potential of NIR spectroscopy in the separation of plastics for pyrolysis

The present-day substantial growth in the demand and utilization of plastics provokes severe economic and environmental consequences. Around 4 – 6 % of global oil and gas production is used directly or indirectly as feedstock in the production of plastics. A further 2 – 3 % is employed as energy during the manufacturing process. This study highlights recycling (chemical) against other sustainable waste management approaches, like mitigation of waste generation through the concept of reusing and energy recovery from plastics. As an example, the African context regarding the quality of the disposed waste and the waste characteristics in the Kumasi region, Ghana is taken into consideration. To process valuable and economically viable recycling products, pure polymers are required. Certain technologies, such as infrared (IR) spectroscopy, have limitations for accurately identifying different polymer types, particularly when the sample mix is contaminated with organic waste or is physically wet. There are promising technologies that are under development, like Raman spectroscopy and laser-aided spectroscopy combined with tracers (fluorescent markers). Nonetheless, these are essentially more expensive technologies and are currently in the development phase. Multiplexed near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a fitting technology for polymer identification. It is a fast and nondestructive technique that does not influence the physical state nor chemical property of the sample polymers. Hence, it can be integrated in a continuous sorting system. Here, a prototype sorting system equipped with a multiplexed NIR spectrometer was utilized and used to test the sorting efficiency of the system as well as the purity of identified and sorted samples. Samples of PE (with subgroups of HDPE, LDPE and LLDPE), PS, PET, PP and PVC and unknown polymers were employed in several conditions. The measurements were carried out in real time, based on the speed of the conveyor belt. In this study, a novel setup is introduced and investigated, and its data analyzed to determine the reliability of the sorting method for plastics to be used for pyrolysis.

Sodium-sulphate production from sulphate-rich bittern: A parametric study and economic evaluation

Concentrated brines and bitterns rejected from various processes contain mineral salts of economic value. For example, sulphate-rich bittern generated at saltworks in the Rajasthan state of India exceeds 3 million tons annually and requires adequate treatment. Resource recovery from such unutilized by-products presents a sustainable waste management approach. This work presents the development and evaluation of a process for sodium-sulphate (Na2SO4) recovery from sulphate-rich bitterns using an integrated process combining cooling crystallization, filtration, and drying as major unit operations. A parametric study has been conducted to investigate the effect of various operating parameters on product (anhydrous sodium-sulphate) yield and quality. Chemical analysis, TGA, P-XRD, and SEM-EDX techniques were used to characterize the product quality and purity. Based on the parametric studies, a sodium-sulphate production process was designed, and material & energy balance was established. The mass balance calculations have shown that 1 ton of anhydrous Na2SO4 (~97 wt% purity) can be produced from 6.31 tons of bittern having a sulphate ion concentration of about 140.8 ± 6.94 g/l. Subsequently, the economic feasibility of a 5 ton/day anhydrous Na2SO4 capacity plant has been evaluated using the cost and profitability analysis. The engineering-economic calculations suggest that the sodium-sulphate production from bittern can be economically favourable, achieving a payback period of 3.5 years. The optimized parameters and economics presented in this paper could significantly help implement an actual sodium-sulphate recovery unit using sulphate-rich bittern as feed.

Valorization of Wastepaper Through Antimicrobial Functionalization with Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles, a Sustainable Packaging Composite

Wood pulping for paper production accounts for bulk of the tree lost, with numerous adverse effects to the environment. In this study, Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaf extract was used for silver nanoparticles synthesis. The nanoparticles were used as functional agent for the valorization of wastepaper. The nanocomposite paper was characterized for physicochemical, antibacterial and cytotoxicity. DLS and TEM revealed a spherical nano-sized particle with effective diameters of 138.6 nm and mean size of 13.11 nm, respectively while zeta potential was − 35.85 mV. Minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentrations of silver nanoparticles ranged from 0.99 to 1.99 µg/mL and 3.98–15.91 µg/mL respectively. UV–vis spectra presented a peak at 427 nm, indicating the surface plasmon resonance band of silver in the paper. SEM and EDX showed uniform distribution of silver nanoparticles, whereas EDX and ICP-OES results indicated Ag concentration of 0.1%Wt and 0.0112 µg/cm2, respectively. Antibacterial efficacy of the paper demonstrated a bactericidal effect against Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli O157:H7 with > 3log reduction in CFU/mL after 3 h of treatment and bacteriostatic effect against Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, cytotoxicity against HEK293T and Caco-2 cells revealed > 80% cell viability. Results indicate that valorization of wastepaper through functionalization with bioactive silver nanoparticles could serve as a sustainable waste management approach.