Sustainable Waste Management Strategy Research Articles

Enhancing the mechanical and environmental performance of solidified soil using construction waste and glass micro-powder

The rapid accumulation of construction waste and waste glass, coupled with their environmental hazards, has highlighted the need for sustainable waste management strategies. This study explores the potential of using construction waste (CW) and glass micro-powder (GMP) as innovative additives in soil stabilization, providing both mechanical and environmental benefits. This research focuses on enhancing the compressive strength, tensile strength, and heavy metal stabilization of solidified soils while reducing carbon emissions. Experimental methodologies involved the systematic preparation of soil samples stabilized with various proportions of CW and GMP. Microstructural analyses were conducted using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) to understand the formation of cementitious products, including calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and calcium aluminate hydrate (C-A-H), which play a pivotal role in the strength improvement of stabilized soils. This study found that the optimal formulation of 30 % CW and 15 % GMP improved compressive strength by 56.8 %, from 7.25 MPa to 11.38 MPa, while reducing porosity by 57 % and increasing tensile strength by 85 %. In terms of environmental performance, the combination of CW and GMP enhanced the soil's ability to immobilize heavy metals, with 80 % sequestration efficiency, significantly contributing to soil remediation. These findings underscore the practical engineering significance of utilizing CW and GMP for sustainable soil stabilization, providing a greener alternative to traditional binders and promoting resource efficiency in the construction industry.

Bacterial synergy and relay for thermophilic hydrogen production through dark fermentation using food waste

BackgroundFood waste is a significant global issue, with 1.3 billion tons generated annually, a figure expected to rise to 2.1 billion tons by 2030. Conventional disposal methods, such as landfilling and incineration, present environmental challenges, including methane emissions and pollution. Hydrogen production through dark fermentation presents a sustainable alternative, offering both waste management and renewable energy generation. This study investigates the bacterial synergy and relay mechanisms involved in thermophilic H2 production using food waste as a substrate. PurposeThe primary aim of this research was to analyze the metabolic pathways and dynamics of functional genes prediction during thermophilic H2 production from food waste, focusing on the role of bacterial consortia in enhancing H2 yields. MethodsA continuous stirred-tank reactor (CSTR) was operated using food waste as the substrate and a thermophilic bacterial consortium as the inoculum. The study utilized genomic analysis to monitor changes in bacteriobiome composition over time and to correlate these changes with H2 production. Volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and H2 production rates were analyzed using gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database was employed to identify functional genes involved in the fermentation process. ResultsThe study identified key bacterial species, including Caproiciproducens and Caproicibacter, that dominated during the later stages of H2 production, replacing earlier dominant species such as Clostridium. These shifts in bacterial dominance were strongly correlated with sustained H2 production rates ranging from 353 to 403 mL·L−1·h−1, with H2 concentrations between 55 % and 62 % (v/v). Functional gene analysis revealed significant pathways related to polysaccharide degradation, glycolysis, and dark fermentation. ConclusionsThis study highlights the importance of bacterial synergy and relay in maintaining continuous H2 production from food waste under thermophilic conditions. The findings provide insights into optimizing biohydrogen production processes, emphasizing the role of specific bacterial species in enhancing efficiency. These results contribute to the development of sustainable waste management strategies and renewable energy production.

Water pollution: causes, impacts and current efforts to address the issues of water pollution along river Meizimera-kihihi, Kanugu District,Uganda.

Pollution refers to the addition of harmful substances to that level where they cause an effect on the environment, it has three major categories such as water, soil, and air pollution but this report is on water pollution. It occurs when harmful substances contaminate water bodies such as, groundwater, rivers, lakes, and oceans rendering them unfavorable for various purposes for example drinking, recreation, and support to aquatic life. Globally, over 80% of wastewater worldwide is discharged into the water bodies without adequate treatment. In Africa, lack of clean water and sanitation is a significant challenge in many countries, affecting approximately 319 million people. Thus, water pollution is one of the types of pollution that has been threatening the lives of living organisms. Implementing effective policies and strategies can have a profound impact on the environment and local communities. By reducing pollution levels and improving water quality, we can create a healthier environment and decrease the incidence of waterborne diseases, leading to improved health and well-being for residents. The research on water pollution in the River Meizimera Kihihi has important implications for future research, policy and governance, human health, the environment, and communities and society. In conclusion, effective policies can foster community involvement, raise awareness, and promote collective action to address water pollution. By achieving clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), we can contribute to the broader sustainable development goals. This research has important ramifications for future research, policy and governance, human health, the environment, communities, and society. This study investigated the problems of water pollution, its causes, its impact, and the current effort to address the issues along the river of Meizimera-kihihi, Kanugu district, Uganda. Recommendations were made, which included encouraging the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, industrial processes, and waste management strategies to minimize pollution.

CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND ENVIRONMENT: ANALYSIS OF THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN POPULATION, HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR WASTE AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS IN ALGERIA (2010-2023)

Objective: The objective of this paper is to analyze the relationships between total population (POP), household and similar waste (DMA), and greenhouse gas emissions (GES) in Algeria from 2010 to 2023. The study explores trends in these variables and employs the Granger causality test to assess causal relationships between population growth, waste production, and emissions. Findings provide insights into the interdependencies among these factors. Recommendations for improving waste management through circular economy practices are also discussed. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework is based on the interrelationship between population growth, waste production, and greenhouse gas emissions. It posits that as population increases, household waste generation rises, which subsequently contributes to GHG emissions. This framework underpins the use of the Granger causality test to explore causal links among these variables in Algeria. Method: The study employs a descriptive analysis of the variables—total population, household waste (DMA), and greenhouse gas emissions (GES)—over the period 2010-2023. The Granger causality test is applied to examine causal relationships between total population and DMA, and between DMA and GES emissions. Data is analyzed to identify unidirectional causal links at a 5% significance level. Results and Discussion: Population growth directly impacts household waste (DMA) and greenhouse gas emissions (GES). Waste management is crucial for controlling emissions. Algeria needs to implement circular economy practices like recycling and waste sorting to mitigate environmental impact. Research Implications: Population growth in Algeria leads to increased waste production and emissions, necessitating improved waste management strategies and adoption of circular economy practices for sustainable development. Originality/Value: The study explores the link between population growth, household waste production, and greenhouse gas emissions in Algeria, offering insights for policymakers and sustainable waste management strategies.

CAPTURE—Computational Analysis and Predictive Techniques for Urban Resource Efficiency

ABSTRACTMunicipal waste management (MWM) poses significant challenges in the context of rapid urbanisation and population growth. Accurate forecasting of waste production is crucial for designing sustainable waste management strategies. However, traditional forecasting methods often struggle to capture the complexities of waste generation dynamics. This paper proposes a novel methodology leveraging deep learning techniques to forecast municipal waste production. By harnessing the power of deep neural networks, our approach transcends the limitations of conventional models, providing more accurate and impactful predictions. We integrate heterogeneous data sources, including demographic and territorial information, into a comprehensive graph representation of municipalities. Graph Neural Networks are then employed to extract intricate spatial and temporal patterns from the graph structure. Empirical validation through a case study in the Apulia region demonstrates the effectiveness of our methodology in furnishing accurate forecasts for waste production. Our framework is adaptable and scalable, making it suitable for application across diverse geographical areas. This research contributes to advancing waste management practices by providing stakeholders with actionable insights for informed decision‐making.

Household Solid Waste Management and Environmental Impacts in the Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria

Given the current rate of urbanization, municipalities in most Nigerian cities have struggled with the collection, transportation, and disposal of solid waste. This is due to waste generation, both residential and commercial, occurring in a dispersed manner across homes, buildings, streets, parks, and even vacant spaces within communities. This manuscript aims to evaluate the state of municipal solid waste management in Ibadan, household solid waste storage practices, and the locations of solid waste storage containers (skip points) in relation to accessibility and health risks to the community, in accordance with Nigerian National Solid Waste Management Standards and other pertinent international standards. A structured questionnaire was distributed to 21 micro and small firms and 250 homes in each of the three local government areas of the metropolis, with descriptive statistics used to interpret the data. According to the study results, inadequate Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) service delivery in the Ibadan metropolitan area can be attributed to several issues, including a lack of institutional coordination among urban planners. The study’s conclusions indicate that the state of MSWM in the sampled areas is either inadequate or has poor spatial coverage and container utilization. Lastly, the study primarily suggests that these measures can reduce problems associated with MSWM by encouraging public-private partnerships, fostering effective institutional coordination with urban planner consultants in MSWM and skip-point location, and motivating the community to adopt integrated sustainable Solid Waste Management (SWM) strategies.

Identification of optimal waste-to-energy strategies for sustainable development in Iran: SWOT analysis, hybrid MCDM methods, and game theory

The growing global focus on environmental sustainability and the pressing need for efficient waste management and energy crisis mitigation have prompted extensive investigations into sustainable waste management strategies. Given Iran's economic development and population growth, the country faces challenges in energy supply and waste management, making waste-to-energy (WtE) applications a promising solution for sustainable waste management. This study employs a combination of SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approaches, and game theory to explore WtE technologies and processes, evaluate their applicability within Iran's context, and identify the most effective WtE strategies for the country. Furthermore, game theory and fuzzy Shapley value analysis were utilized to determine the optimal combination of WtE development strategies. The strategy player “SO” held the highest position of power, with a fuzzy Shapley value of (0.391, 1.744, 3.264), resulting in the identification of the optimal strategy combination of SO2ST2WO1WT2, with a value of (0.429, 0.679, 0.893). The recommended combination emphasizes landfill with gas capture, development of incineration power plants, and integrated resource recovery through residue-derived fuel (RDF) implementation. Achieving these objectives necessitates energy policy reforms, pricing adjustments, improvements in the energy subsidy system, and infrastructure and market development.

The environmental costs of clean cycles: Quantitative analysis for the case of PVC window profile recycling in Germany

AbstractRecycling schemes for long‐lived products are challenged by the presence of “legacy substances,” which have been used in production in the past, but are nowadays classified as substances of concern. This study quantitatively evaluates the trade‐offs between phasing out legacy substances, increasing circularity levels, and reducing life cycle impacts of polyvinylchloride (PVC) window profiles recycling in Germany based on a comprehensive dynamic material and substance flow analysis coupled with a prospective life cycle assessment. Scenario results indicate that although lead had been phased out in virgin PVC by 2015, lead concentrations in end‐of‐life PVC window profiles will remain above 0.3% until the end of the century without a restriction of lead in recycled PVC and will be by factor 3–5 higher compared to a restriction as stipulated by EU 2023/923. However, the latter is associated with lower recycling rates and higher life cycle environmental impacts of PVC window frame waste management, which cannot be fully compensated by the introduction of new waste treatment pathways using currently available technologies. The study serves to introduce a new comprehensive modeling framework, which allows for the consideration of trade‐offs between substance, material, and environmental impact dimensions as a basis for discussing and developing sustainable waste management strategies.

Shotgun metagenomic analysis reveals the diversity of PHA producer bacterial community and PHA synthase gene in Addis Ababa municipal solid waste disposal area ‘Qoshe’

BackgroundPolyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are naturally produced biopolymers with significant scientific and biotechnological potential. This study aimed to investigate the diversity of the PHA-producing bacterial community and PhaC genes in soil samples collected from a municipal solid waste disposal site known as “Qoshe” in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, using a shotgun metagenomics approach. The SqueezeMeta pipeline was used to analyze the microbial community in the waste samples. A CD search against the TIGRFAM protein family database was performed to identify the complete-length multidomain sequences of PhaC genes and classify them into their respective classes. Statistical analysis and data visualization were performed using RStudio with R version 4.2.3.ResultsThe findings of this study suggest that known and unknown taxa likely contribute to the phaC genes of municipal solid waste. Taxonomic profiling of the metagenomic data revealed that the majority of the PHA-producing taxa belonged to the phylum Proteobacteria (80%), followed by Actinomycetota (16.5%). Furthermore, this study identified Thiomonas and unclassified Mycobacterium as the main contributors to class I PhaC genes. Class II PhaC genes are predominantly associated with the Pseudomonadaceae family, followed by unclassified Hyphomicrobials and Acidimicrobiales. Class III PhaC genes are abundantly related to the Methylococcaceae family, specifically the Methylocaldum genus. The analysis of PhaC gene sequences revealed high level of diversity, with a significant proportion of putative PhaC genes exhibiting low sequence identity with each other and PhaC gene in the database. Notably, the sequence variation observed within the same PhaC gene classes suggests the potential presence of previously unidentified PhaC gene variants.ConclusionsOverall, this research improves our understanding of the diversity of PHA-producing taxa and PhaC genes in municipal solid waste environments, providing opportunities for sustainable PHA production and waste management strategies. However, additional studies, including the isolation and characterization of specific strains, are necessary to confirm the PHA production capabilities of these strains and explore their biotechnological potential.

Waste Generation and Recovery in a Developing Country: A Case Study of Western Province, Sri Lanka

The study’s findings serve as a crucial foundation for policymakers, environmentalists, and stakeholders to take necessary actions and develop sustainable waste management strategies tailored to the specific challenges faced in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, contributing to broader global efforts to mitigate the growing waste crisis. It’s a significant concern that the volume of waste is expected to triple by 2050, and the current waste management practices seem insufficient to handle this growth sustainably. The study indicates a per capita waste generation of 0.43 kg in Sri Lanka, with the Western Province at a higher rate of 0.53 kg. This data points to the urgency of addressing waste management practices in this region, especially considering its significance in the country’s GDP. The results also show that the total municipal waste generation in the Western Province is 3248 kg per day whereas the recovery is only 25% (803 kg) in terms of recycling and composting. Burning, burying, and open dumping are highlighted as other prevailing practices for managing waste, which have adverse impacts on the environment and public health. Further research is recommended to identify and address these unaccounted waste streams, especially those at the household level.

The pyrolytic distillation of waste lubricants with waste oilfield scale into value-added fuel

The ever-increasing generation of waste materials has become a major environmental concern, highlighting the need for sustainable waste management strategies. This study explores the catalytic pyrolysis of waste lubricant oils using a waste oilfield scale as a low-cost solid catalyst to produce value-added fuel products. The pyrolytic distillation of waste engine oil was carried out in a manual distillation unit, employing a calcium carbonate (CaCO3) scale as a catalyst under various reaction conditions. Distillation experiments were conducted at 300 °C, 320 °C, and 350 °C, with and without adding NaOH and CaCO3 catalysts. The distillate fractions were characterized, and their properties were compared to standard fuel specifications. The results demonstrated that increasing the pyrolysis temperature and employing CaCO3 as a catalyst significantly enhanced the distillate yield and improved key fuel properties. At 350 °C, the distillate yield reached 56 % with 4 g of CaCO3, exhibiting desirable density (0.8049 g/cm3), viscosity (2.31 cSt at 40 °C), sulfur content (0.43 wt%), and a calorific value of 43,152 kJ/kg. Further, the distillate fractions were separated into gasoline (80–150 °C), kerosene (180–270 °C), and gas oil/diesel (270–350 °C) ranges, with the diesel fraction showing a promising cetane number of 51. The catalytic pyrolysis fuel (CPF) obtained from distillation with 4 g CaCO3 at 350 °C, followed by bleaching with CaO, exhibited excellent properties, including a density of 0.8297 g/cm3, viscosity of 2.71 cSt at 40 °C, pour point of −12 °C, sulfur content of 0.201 wt%, and a calorific value of 43,961 kJ/kg. The GC analysis revealed a paraffin-rich composition in the desired fuel ranges, contributing to the desirable fuel properties.

Process Model and Life Cycle Assessment of Biorefinery Concept Using Agricultural and Industrial Residues for Biohydrogen Production

Sustainable waste management strategies are urgently needed due to an increasing global population and increased waste production. In this context, biorefineries have recently emerged as a promising approach to valorize waste streams and supply a broad range of products. This study presents the process model and life cycle assessment (LCA) of a biorefinery concept using a novel biochemical method, a so-called “dark photosynthesis” conversion. This process is coupled to a photo-fermentation using microalgae. Overall, the biorefinery concept can produce hydrogen, lutein, β-carotene, and proteins for animal feed. Apple pomace from apple juice production is used as feedstock for the primary conversion step. A process model was created with the process simulation software Aspen Plus® using experimental and literature data. Results from this model were then used in an LCA. The environmental impacts of the proposed biorefinery concept are relatively high, showing the need for process optimization in several areas. Energy system integration, stream recycling, and higher hydrogen yields are recognized as especially important for improving the environmental performance of this concept. Despite these findings, the model shows the feasibility of implementing the biochemical conversion technologies in a biorefinery concept for effectively utilizing residue streams.

Evaluation of energy potential of MSW in the Tamale metropolis, Ghana: An assessment of solid waste characteristics and energy content

ABSTRACT In the present investigation, a thorough examination of waste composition was undertaken in the Tamale Metropolis, Ghana. The methodology employed was carefully designed, incorporating both commercial and residential sectors as well as various socioeconomic classes. Source-based sampling of waste materials covered a range of locations, including households, markets, hotels, and restaurants, while socioeconomic-based categorization followed the zoning of the metropolis. Waste audit sampling involved collecting a total of 90 batches of solid waste over the three-month period from August to October 2023. The primary objectives were to physically characterize the waste and evaluate its chemical properties through proximate and ultimate analysis of waste fractions, aiming to determine the waste-to-energy potential and compatibility with waste-to-energy technologies. The study revealed that the Tamale Metropolis generates 176.1 tons/day of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) at a rate of 0.47 kg/capita/day. Organic matter constituted the majority (44.9%), followed by inert, miscellaneous, and plastic waste at 20% each. The remaining 14.3% comprised paper, metal, glass, leather, and textile components. Notably, the hospitality sector exhibited the highest organic matter content at 62.3%, contrasting with average households and markets at 44.9% and 13.1%, respectively. Moisture content ranged from 5.4% to 12.6%, volatile solids from 21.8% to 77.2%, and gross calorific values from 7.9 MJ/kg to 28.9 MJ/kg. Household waste demonstrated the highest energy content at 6693.8 kcal/kg, followed by hotels/restaurants (2003.94 kcal/kg) and markets (1883.62 kcal/kg). This study’s findings offer valuable insights that can inform the development of effective policies by regulatory bodies such as the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the Ghana Ministry of Energy, as well as city authorities like the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly and the Environmental Protection Agency. These insights can be used to address waste and energy challenges in the metropolis. Implications: The findings reveal critical insights with substantial implications for stakeholders and regulatory bodies. It emphasizes the waste-to-energy potential of various waste fractions, highlighting the need for sustainable municipal waste management strategies. Particularly, the high organic content in the hospitality sector presents significant energy recovery opportunities. For bodies like the Public Utility Regulatory Commission and the Ghana Ministry of Energy, this data is crucial for developing policies that support waste-to-energy technologies. Additionally, the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly and the Environmental Protection Agency can use these insights to improve local waste management practices, customizing interventions to address specific sectoral waste composition. The study also underlines the importance of ongoing monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of these strategies over time.

Analysis of waste generation characteristics as a reference for TPS 3R planning in community-based waste management efforts in Pandansari Lor Village, Malang Regency

Background: Waste management is a critical issue in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas like Pandansari Lor Village in Malang Regency. Improper waste disposal practices, such as open burning and dumping in rivers, pose environmental and health hazards. This study aims to analyze the waste generation characteristics in Pandansari Lor Village as a baseline for planning a community-based Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3R) waste processing site (TPS 3R). Method: A waste sampling method was conducted following the SNI 19-3964-1994 guidelines to measure the waste generation rate, density, and composition. Findings: The results showed that the average waste generation rate in Pandansari Lor Village was 0.16 kg/person/day or 778.72 kg/day for the total population, with a waste density of 74.02 kg/m³. The waste composition was dominated by organic waste (62.26%), followed by plastic (26.74%), paper (5.89%), and other components. These findings suggest the need for a 3R-based waste management system that involves community participation. Conclusion: The TPS 3R facility should be designed to handle the projected waste generation for the next 10 years, with a capacity of 15,438 L/day. Proper waste segregation, composting of organic waste, and recycling of plastic and other recyclable materials are recommended. This study provides valuable insights for developing a sustainable and effective waste management strategy in rural areas, considering the specific waste characteristics and community involvement. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study proposes a 3R TPS model adapted to rural waste, focusing on organic waste composting and plastic recycling. This model is designed to increase community participation in waste management through community-based education and empowerment.

How does consumer awareness of the waste of electrical and electronic equipment affect reverse logistics? Extended triple bottom line approach

This study explores how government support and consumer awareness affect the waste of electrical and electronic equipment reverse logistics in the circular economy framework. To improve waste of electrical and electronic equipment reverse logistics consumer awareness, the extended triple bottom line concept introduces technology with traditional economic, social, and environmental aspects. The impact of government initiatives on consumer awareness and socioeconomic factors on the intention to reuse the waste of electrical and electronic equipment reverse logistics is examined. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to analyze survey data from 330 Chinese participants. The results revealed that government policies significantly influence extended triple bottom line awareness while socioeconomic factors impact waste of electrical and electronic equipment reverse logistics reuse intentions. However, direct government support does not significantly impact the expected service quality of waste of electrical and electronic equipment reverse logistics. These findings improve the literature by identifying relevant factors and boosting waste of electrical and electronic equipment reverse logistics comprehension in a circular economy environment, driving the development of efficient and sustainable waste management strategies.

An Overview on Bioeconomy in Agricultural Sector, Biomass Production, Recycling Methods, and Circular Economy Considerations

This review examines the essential components of a circular economy (CE) in relation to the agricultural sector. The bioeconomy and circular economy are crucial for sustainable global industrial growth, focusing on closed-loop systems. The sustainability debate centers on intergenerational equity and natural capital. The CE requires new environmental technologies and global coordination in order to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. In addition, efficient food production and waste reduction are essential due to population growth. However, biomass is vital for a bio-based economy, impacting food waste and climate change. Grasslands support sustainable dairy production and carbon sequestration. Thus, effective waste and wastewater management are critical, with biomass energy providing renewable alternatives. Nonetheless, biofuels remain key for sustainability, focusing on pollution control and Green Chemistry. It is well known that sustainable transportation relies on bioenergy, with ongoing research improving processes and discovering new fuels. One notable challenge is managing heavy metals in biofuel production, and this underscores the need for eco-friendly energy solutions. The main purpose for this review paper is to create a connection between circular economy aspects and the agricultural system, with focus on the following: bioeconomy research, biomass utilities, and biofuel production. Extensive research was performed on the specialized literature by putting in common the main problems. Key subjects in this paper include the use of biomass in agriculture, the problems of plastic recycling, and the function of the CE in mitigating climate change and biodiversity loss. Efficient food production and waste minimization are highlighted due to their relevance in a growing population. The study’s detailed research and discussion aim to give important insights into how these practices might promote economic development and sustainability. Furthermore, the study covers important waste management issues such as food waste, plant composting, and chemical waste neutralization. These topics are critical to understanding the circular economy’s broader implications for minimizing environmental damage and implementing sustainable waste management strategies.

Forecasting End-of-Life Vehicle Generation in the EU-27: A Hybrid LSTM-Based Forecasting and Grey Systems Theory-Based Backcasting Approach

End-of-life vehicle (ELV) forecasting constitutes a crucial aspect of sustainable waste management and resource allocation strategies. While the existing literature predominantly employs time-series forecasting and machine learning methodologies, a dearth of studies leveraging deep learning techniques, particularly Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, is evident. Moreover, the focus on localized contexts within national or municipal boundaries overlooks the imperative of addressing ELV generation dynamics at an international scale, particularly within entities such as the EU-27. Furthermore, the absence of methodologies to reconcile missing historical data presents a significant limitation in forecasting accuracy. In response to these critical gaps, this study proposes a pioneering framework that integrates grey systems theory (GST)-based backcasting with LSTM-based deep learning methodologies for forecasting ELV generation within the EU until 2040. By introducing this innovative approach, this study not only extends the methodological repertoire within the field but also enhances the applicability of findings to supranational regulatory frameworks. Moreover, the incorporation of backcasting techniques addresses data limitations, ensuring more robust and accurate forecasting outcomes. The results indicate an anticipated decline in the recovery and recycling of ELVs, underscoring the urgent need for intervention by policymakers and stakeholders in the waste management sector. Through these contributions, this study enriches our understanding of ELV generation dynamics and facilitates informed decision-making processes in environmental sustainability and resource management domains.

Valorization of Agricultural Wastes to Offset Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) Emissions: An Insight in Southeast Asia

This paper aims to review and synthesize the existing literature on agricultural waste valorization in the Southeast Asian (SEA) region, with a focus on its potential to offset greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The SEA region generates abundant agricultural wastes from major commodity crops, such as: rice, palm oil, sugarcane, coconut, and corn, which present opportunities for valorization. The review found that countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand have conducted several studies on agricultural waste valorization, exploring pathways such as bioenergy, value-added products, and soil amendments. However, only a few studies exist for some countries with high residue valorization potential, such as Vietnam and the Philippines. The reviewed literature showed a relationship between agricultural waste valorization and emissions that could contribute to air pollution, but no direct association was established with the associated GHG emissions. The abundance of agricultural residues across SEA presents opportunities for valorization to offset GHG emissions. However, effective valorization is hindered by challenges like open burning practices, logistical issues, and a lack of sustainable waste management strategies. This review highlights the need for further research to establish the direct relationship between agricultural waste valorization and GHG emissions reduction in the SEA region.

Sustainable Municipal Solid Waste Management Strategies and Practices: A review

Purpose: This paper introduces a multi-period, multi-objective model for creating an integrated, sustainable municipal solid waste management supply chain. The model includes source separation and a reward-penalty mechanism, aiming to minimize total system costs, greenhouse gas emissions, and environmental impacts on residential areas. Many countries strive to develop efficient solid waste management systems (SWMS) that handle and dispose of daily waste cost-effectively while maintaining sustainability. These systems include waste sources, collection stations, landfills, incinerators, recycling plants, and a transportation network. Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted on existing literature from various studies. Recent studies were used for this systematic review of sustainable municipal solid waste management strategies and practices. Findings: Decision-makers must design or reconfigure a sustainable MSWM to determine the optimal supply chain network for treating and disposing of daily waste effectively. This paper suggests sustainable waste management strategies and practices from various countries, aiming to determine the best number and locations for facilities and optimal waste flow within the system to minimize daily costs. The primary contribution of this review is the theoretical development of sustainable MSWM practices applicable worldwide. Unique contribution to theory, policy and practice: Cooperation between the private and public sectors involved in solid waste management and the circular economy is imperative to ensure the technical, financial, and social sustainability of waste management systems. Large-scale awareness programs on solid waste management and the circular economy should be implemented, focusing on fostering environmentally responsible behaviors and attitudes, promoting sorting, selective collection, and the recovery of materials and energy from waste.

Gasification of medical plastic waste into hydrogen: Energy potential, environmental benefits and economic feasibility

There has been a surge in plastic waste generation during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the rise in home food deliveries and groceries during lockdowns worldwide. During the pandemic, the increased uncontrolled plastic waste generation moves through sewage into water bodies, causing severe environmental problems in Africa. This calls for a sustainable plastic waste management strategy to combat these negative ecological consequences. Gasification is suitable for valorizing plastic waste into hydrogen for cleaner energy production. This study analyzes the power generation potential, ecological benefits, and economic feasibility of hydrogen from mixed daily COVID-19 plastic wastes in 57 African countries using the plasma gasification process. The key findings show that a total of 218.2 M kg/d of hydrogen gas, with an electricity generation potential of 10.35 M kWh/d, could be benefited from the project across Africa. The electricity consumption from the project could displace 48.04 M L/d of diesel fuel combustion for power generation. The total quantity of diesel fuel displaced daily can reduce global warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions by 1.103 M kg CO2eq/d. The economic feasibility result showed that the project had a positive net present value (ranging from US$0.01478 M to US$30.95 M) in all African nations, with an average levelized cost of energy of US$0.4052/kWh and a 17.56% return on investment. Sensitivity analysis, practical implications, limitations, and future perspectives are discussed in detail. The outcomes of this study provide empirical recommendations for plastic waste treatment and disposal in Africa and other developing nations during the COVID-19 epidemic.