Waste Management In Countries Research Articles

Agent-based modeling for an end-of-life power battery cross-regional recycling system and subregional policy analysis: A case study in China

Informal recycling of end-of-life electric vehicle batteries has caused severe environmental pollution and tax losses. Linear models and static strategies have difficulty capturing complex relationships and regional heterogeneity. Therefore, we aim to suggest an optimal subregional joint policy under fiscal constraints. This study uses agent-based modeling with geographic information systems to construct a cross-regional recycling system model that assesses the economic and environmental effects of policies. Based on actual data, the model considers four subsystems, multiple region types, two battery types, and six stakeholders. The results show that: (1) The optimal subregional joint policy can increase the average formal recycling rate from 28.44 % to 48.58 % and achieve an emission reduction rate of 19.81 %; (2) In underdeveloped regions, allocating 70–80 % of fiscal funds to supervision can achieve optimal economic and environmental benefits; and (3) For the local governments with few formal sectors, investing in a unit subsidy exceeding $1.4/kWh will diminish economic efficiency. Provincial governments in economically developed areas with formal business clusters should provide higher subsidies, while other regions should allocate more fiscal expenditure for supervision. This cross-regional recycling system model can improve solid waste management in countries with large areas and decentralized facilities.

Applicability of the Life Cycle Assessment Model in Solid Waste Management in Zimbabwe.

Solid waste increase is inevitable globally due to anthropogenic activities. This adds burden to waste management systems in developing countries including Zimbabwe. Currently, life cycle assessment (LCA) model is used to achieve sustainability and circular economy (CE) in solid waste management. Therefore, the main goal of this paper was to unearth LCA model applicability in solid waste management in Zimbabwe. Data sources were retrieved from databases like Scopus, ScienceDirect and Springer, although government documents were also used. In Zimbabwe, organic and inorganic solid waste is generated from various sources, namely industries, institutions and households. Solid waste management in Zimbabwe is based on traditional linear approach where waste is collected and disposed through landfilling, burning, incineration, burying, open pits or illegally. Most disposal approaches occupy base of waste management pyramid, hence posing detrimental impacts to human health, terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric ecosystems. Management approaches are far from Agenda 21, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Zimbabwe Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1 demands. Literature revealed that LCA model can be utilised to achieve sustainable solid waste management in countries like Zimbabwe. LCA model is essential in management of solid waste in Zimbabwe, since it assists decision makers in selecting management approaches with less environmental health impacts. Moreover, LCA enables application of waste material reuse, recycle, repairing and recovery, thus narrowing the gap to achieve CE and economic growth in Zimbabwe. Owing to LCA model implementation of waste management legislation and policies which support energy recovery and circular economy became easier in Zimbabwe.