Article
Environmental Sciences
Behnam Dastjerdi, Vladimir Strezov, Ravinder Kumar, Jing He, Masud Behnia
Summary: This study utilizes Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the environmental impacts of different scenarios for residual municipal solid waste (MSW) management in New South Wales (NSW). The results suggest that treating each waste type with specific technologies can achieve the highest resource recovery and lowest environmental impacts.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Bhupendra K. Sharma, Munish K. Chandel
Summary: This study quantifies and compares the cost of municipal solid waste (MSW) management systems under different scenarios using life cycle cost (LCC) analysis approach. The study found that the scenario combining recycling and sanitary landfill was the most economically viable option, while the incineration-based scenario was the most cost-intensive. Sensitivity analysis showed that O&M cost was the most sensitive parameter affecting the net LCC of scenarios.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Levent Bilgili, Afsin Yusuf Cetinkaya
Summary: In this study, the average waste composition in Turkey was determined and the life cycle effects of different waste management scenarios were examined. The results show that incineration has a high impact on global warming and human health, while landfill is more harmful in the long term. Recycling and composting processes have significant environmental benefits, especially in land and mineral resource use.
JOURNAL OF MATERIAL CYCLES AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Natalia Vinitskaia, Anna Zaikova, Ivan Deviatkin, Oksana Bachina, Mika Horttanainen
Summary: This study provides the first life cycle assessment for the municipal solid waste management system in Moscow, one of the largest cities in Europe. The assessment reveals that the current system has high global warming potential and acidification potential. Planned changes by 2024 will reduce impacts in all categories, especially with the production of RDF and its substitution for coal in cement kilns.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yixuan Wang, James W. Levis, Morton A. Barlaz
Summary: The study found that material production contributes 68-75% to toxicity impacts in the landfill while LFG emissions contribute 50-99% to global warming, ozone depletion, and smog impacts. The current non-methane organic compound regulatory threshold reduces methane emissions by <7% relative to the former threshold.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ioan-Robert Istrate, Enrique Medina-Martos, Jose-Luis Galvez-Martos, Javier Dufour
Summary: This study utilized material flow analysis to quantify the energy recovery potential of MSW in Madrid for 2030. The results suggest a potential decrease in overall energy recovery due to increased recycling rates of plastic, paper, and cardboard. However, waste streams suitable for energy recovery represent a significant portion of the MSW generated in the scenarios for 2030.
Article
Thermodynamics
Viktoria Barbara Kovacs, Gyongyver Tothpalne Hidegh, Erika Racz, Botond Szucs, Viktor Csokai, Viktor Jozsa
Summary: Waste-to-energy technologies are crucial for a sustainable future, particularly the utilization of refuse-derived fuel (RDF). The energy recovery efficiency of six waste-to-energy scenarios was evaluated, and it was found that only the gas turbine and internal combustion engine met the required energy efficiency threshold. Additionally, the environmental impact of these systems was assessed.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Junqi Wang, Solomon Inalegwu Okopi, Haoxiang Ma, Miao Wang, Rui Chen, Wangyang Tian, Fuqing Xu
Summary: By comparing the environmental impacts of anaerobic digestion-pyrolysis and pyrolysis-anaerobic digestion integrations with single anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis technologies for organic solid waste, it was found that anaerobic digestion-pyrolysis has the least environmental impact, while pyrolysis-anaerobic digestion exhibits the heaviest environmental burden. Hence, the anaerobic digestion-pyrolysis integration is considered the top priority for treating organic solid waste from an environmental perspective.
BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Jeremy Rodrigues, Natacha Gondran, Adrien Beziat, Valerie Laforest
Summary: The paper expands the AESA framework to multifunctional systems, using a simplified case study on municipal solid waste (MSW) management to identify specific challenges of multifunctionality within AESA. The methodology developed includes steps to quantify impacts, identify beneficiaries, determine significant impact categories, and assess the carrying capacity of the system based on human needs satisfaction. Steps were applied to a proof of concept model of MSW management in the Lyon Metropolitan Area, highlighting the importance of understanding system functions and different sharing principles in determining environmental sustainability.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Oluwaseun Nubi, Stephen Morse, Richard J. Murphy
Summary: Globally, population growth and urbanization have led to increased electricity demand and waste generation. Waste-to-Energy (WtE) approaches offer a solution to these issues. This research uses a Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) approach to compare the sustainability impacts of different WtE technologies in two Nigerian cities. The results show that WtE adoption offers sustainability benefits, particularly for Lagos.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Meichun Liu, Zhengze Tan, Xuechun Fan, Yuzhi Chang, Liping Wang, Xuefeng Yin
Summary: This study used a life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology to determine the environmental impact of the current municipal solid waste management system in Hohhot City and to establish an optimum future strategy. The results indicated that a scenario involving landfill and incineration in a ratio of 1:5 was the optimal waste management option, but increasing the proportion of waste incinerated led to a significant increase in global warming potential. The use of CO2 capture technology resulted in a 30% reduction in the total environmental impact potential, indicating the need for additional technologies to address environmental challenges.
WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Fanran Meng, Aritha Dornau, Simon J. Mcqueen Mason, Gavin H. Thomas, Alex Conradie, Jon McKechnie
Summary: Producing ethanol through fermentation can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with financial viability depending on the ethanol yield and productivity of microorganisms. The majority of revenue comes from gate fees received by diverting waste to autoclave and ethanol production, rather than ethanol sales revenue.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Samuel O. Alamu, Ayodeji Wemida, Tiyobistiya Tsegaye, Gbekeloluwa Oguntimein
Summary: The sustainability analysis of the MSW incineration plant in Baltimore city revealed that the emissions of CO2, N, and SO2 exceeded the limits set by the EPA, indicating the need for improved processing technology to reduce pollution emissions. Life Cycle Assessment proved suitable for evaluating the environmental impacts of the MSW-to-energy treatment approach.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Min Yee Chin, Chew Tin Lee, Kok Sin Woon
Summary: Despite efforts to promote sustainable waste management, most municipal waste remains in landfills, especially in developing countries. Lack of comprehensive planning and national policy alignment may hinder the implementation of waste management facilities. This study investigates the eco-efficiency of waste treatment scenarios and highlights the importance of policy-driven solutions that consider local conditions.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Aurore Guillaume, Lise Appels, Vladimir Koci
Summary: As part of its transition to a sustainable society and circular economy, the EU aims to reduce municipal solid waste and separate its organic fraction. The management of biowaste at the municipal level is crucial, and local factors play a significant role in determining the most sustainable treatment option. A Life Cycle Assessment was conducted to evaluate the environmental impacts of biowaste management in Prague and propose improvements. Different scenarios were analyzed based on EU and Czech biowaste targets, and the results showed the importance of the energy source used. Currently, incineration is the most sustainable option due to an energy mix dependent on fossil fuels, but community composting has potential to reduce ecotoxicity and resource use. To meet EU directives, a combination of anaerobic digestion and composting is likely the best option. The findings of this project are highly valuable for municipalities.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaojian Liu, Bei Wang, Yayun Ma, Xiangyang Zhou, Juan Yang, Yuehui He, Jingjing Tang, Fanyun Su, Wan Yang
Summary: This study proposes a combined process of reduction roasting of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid leaching to improve the recovery efficiency of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries. By utilizing the reducing gas produced from the pyrolysis of herb-medicine residue, the layered structure of the cathode powder is destroyed and converted into Li2CO3, Ni, Co, and MnO. Additionally, selective extraction of lithium is achieved using oxalic acid, and the efficiency and kinetics of lithium extraction are improved under the combined action of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Muxina Konarova, Nuno Batalha, Gabriel Fraga, Mohamed H. M. Ahmed, Steven Pratt, Bronwyn Laycock
Summary: This study presents a proof of concept for a technology that integrates PET recovery from mixed plastic waste and plastic pyrolysis. By depolymerizing PET into TPA using a low volatility oil as medium, it achieves low-pressure operation and a selective separation and recovery of TPA from the product mix. Full PET conversion and high TPA recovery were achieved, making it an effective solution for processing mixed waste streams and improving the yield and quality of liquid product from thermal pyrolysis compared to untreated feedstock.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zhenhua Sun, Jing Li, Xuejiang Wang, Siqing Xia, Jianfu Zhao
Summary: This study investigated the influence of in-situ formed MgFe2O4 on the hydrothermal treatment of swine manure. The results showed that the in-situ formation of MgFe2O4 improved the dehydration and decarboxylation of organic components in swine manure, thereby improving its carbonization degree. Furthermore, it enhanced the stabilization of heavy metals and the retention of phosphorus. MgFe2O4 modified hydrochars exhibited remarkable adsorption capacity for Pb(II) and Cu(II) without any leaching of heavy metals.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yijing Jiang, Boyang Leng, Jingxin Xi
Summary: The increased generation of municipal solid waste has had a significant impact on the economy, environment, and public health. The current waste treatment process has limitations. By developing a comprehensive social costing model, this study assesses the impacts of municipal solid waste management throughout its life cycle and provides policymakers with best practices and feasibility information.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Marina Hernandes de Paula e Silva, Ricardo Coser Mergulha, Jose Geraldo Vidal Vieira, Andrea Brasco Pampanelli, Rodrigo Salvador, Diogo Aparecido Lopes Silva
Summary: This study developed and implemented a self-assessment tool to assist companies in decision-making processes for establishing circular flows based on Lean Manufacturing and Circular Economy principles. The tool utilized a maturity model and was applied to nine companies of varying characteristics. The findings revealed that certain companies showed higher maturity in water-waste and chemical-emissions management, with larger enterprises focusing on these strategies. However, many companies lacked sufficient training and employee awareness prior to seeking cleaner alternatives, and comprehensive actions to manage the product lifecycle were lacking. To address these gaps, the tool provided tailored recommendations for each company to improve their processes, products, and value chain.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Gamze Dogdu, Turgay Pekdemir, Sanaz Lakestani, Seyda Karabork, Osman Cavus
Summary: This paper presents data on food waste associated with mini size food packaging services, highlighting the difficulties in emptying the food and consumer wastefulness as the main causes. These findings have significant implications for the sustainability of food and relevant packaging.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qingxia Li, Xin Kong, Yuxin Chen, Jianan Niu, Jia Jing, Jin Yuan, Yifeng Zhang
Summary: This study investigates how to enhance methane production from food waste after hydrothermal pretreatment. The results demonstrate a significant increase in methane yield when zero-valent iron and magnetite are used together, and high organic loading is favorable for methane production. Microbial diversity analysis further reveals the dominant pathways and metabolic processes involved in methane generation.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
D. H. H. Sim, I. A. W. Tan, L. L. P. Lim, E. T. Lau, B. H. Hameed
Summary: The development of controlled-release fertilizer formulation is important for preventing environmental pollution caused by nutrient leaching and volatilization. This study combined biochar-based fertilizer with encapsulation technology to improve the nutrient release mechanism. Optimal conditions for synthesizing urea-impregnated biochar (UIB) were determined using central composite design, and the release of nitrogen was described by mathematical models. Results showed that encapsulated UIB (EUIB) achieved complete release of nitrogen in water and exhibited improved water retention in sandy-textural soil. Therefore, EUIB derived from peppercorn waste has the potential to be used as a sustainable controlled-release fertilizer for agriculture.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuchuan Wang, Neslihan Akdeniz
Summary: Incorporating biochar into composting systems can increase compost temperatures. This study developed a heat transfer model for a biochar-amended co-composting system and found that biochar increased thermal conductive losses but also enhanced microbial activity, resulting in an overall increase in total heat unit. When biochar was applied on the surface, it mainly functioned as an insulator.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
George Tsalis, Birger Boutrup Jensen, Jessica Aschemann-Witzel
Summary: This paper empirically explores the relationship between retail price promotions and household food waste. The results show that households with a higher proportion of discount food purchases and environmental awareness tend to waste less food, while larger households and those lacking food handling skills tend to waste more food.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lukas Friederici, Arne Koch, Patrick Martens, Jana Pantzke, Sebastiano Di Bucchianico, Thorsten Streibel, Christopher P. Rueger, Ralf Zimmermann
Summary: The increasing demand for lightweight materials has led to a rise in fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) production. However, the properties and compositional range of FRPs pose challenges to recycling strategies. Pyrolysis has emerged as a promising method for separating the fibers from the polymer matrix. This study investigated the pyrolysis process using thermal analysis and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and also assessed the toxicity of the recovered fibers using an in vitro model.
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Devika Kannan, Shakiba Khademolqorani, Nassibeh Janatyan, Somaieh Alavi
Summary: This paper introduces Smart Waste Management (SWM) that applies Industry 4.0 technologies in waste management. A framework called SWM4.0 is developed, which highlights the importance of smart people, smart cities, smart enterprises, and smart factories in achieving successful waste management. The paper also suggests future research directions and managerial implications.