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Municipal waste classification is significant for effective recycling and waste management processes that involve the classification of diverse municipal waste materials such as paper, glass, plastic, and organic matter using diverse techniques. Yet, this municipal waste classification process faces several challenges, such as high computational complexity, more time consumption, and high variability in the appearance of waste caused by variations in color, type, and degradation level, which makes an inaccurate waste classification process. To overcome these challenges, this research proposes a novel Channel and Spatial Attention-Based Multiblock Convolutional Network for accurately classifying municipal waste that utilizes a unique attention mechanism for enhancing feature learning and waste classification accuracy. In this research, the data augmentation technique is utilized to improve the size and diversity of the images, which creates a new municipal waste image from the existing image. After the augmentation process, the data preprocessing is performed through normalization, resizing, and dividing the images into smaller patches. In the feature extraction phase, each image patch's detailed representation is created by integrating and extracting the image's relevant features from the embedding space. Finally, the proposed Channel and Spatial Attention-Based Multiblock Convolutional Network predicts the types of municipal waste that are represented in each image patch by classifying the input images into diverse kinds of waste categories. The experimental validation exposed that the proposed Channel and Spatial Attention-Based Multiblock Convolutional Network effectively classifies the municipal waste images and achieves a higher accuracy of 98.73%, lower mean absolute error of 0.048, and lower root mean square error of 0.087 when compared to existing municipal waste classification strategies. These results prove that the proposed Channel and Spatial Attention-Based Multiblock Convolutional Network framework is more accurate, reliable, and well-suited to real-time municipal waste classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of plastic and multilayer packaging waste was assessed in the mixed municipal solid waste (MSW) streams of the Kaunas (Lithuania), Daugavpils (Latvia) and Tallinn (Estonia) municipalities. For the analysis of samples in the mixed MSW streams, the authors used manual sorting and a visual recognition method. Composition analysis of plastic and multilayer packaging waste from separately collected waste of multi-family and single-family households was performed in the Kaunas and Tallinn municipalities. For the analysis of samples in the separately collected waste streams, the research group combined manual sorting and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy methods. The findings reveal that the percentage distribution of plastic and multilayer packaging waste within the municipal solid waste (MSW) stream is relatively consistent across the municipalities of Kaunas, Daugavpils and Tallinn, comprising 40.16%, 36.83% and 35.09%, respectively. However, a notable variation emerges when examining separately collected plastic and multilayer packaging waste streams. In this category, the proportion of plastic and multilayer packaging within the total separately collected packaging waste stream ranges from 62.05% to 74.7% for multi-family residential buildings and from 44.66% to 56.89% for single-family residential buildings. The authors provided further insights for the enhanced recycling potential of different plastic materials through improved sorting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transect surveys are widely used to quantify mismanaged plastic waste discarded to the environment. However, very few studies have quantified inter-observer reliability in environmental waste surveys. The aim of this study was to assess inter-observer reliability for a set of environmental waste indicators derived from transect surveys in slum areas of two sub-Saharan African cities. Pairs of observers independently recorded counts of scattered waste items, large waste piles, and burnt waste along 64 environmental transects in Kisumu, Kenya, and Greater Accra, Ghana. Concordance correlation coefficients were used to measure inter-observer reliability for derived indicators measuring mismanaged waste density, waste composition, waste origins of policy concern, and waste disposal practices. Evidence across all observers consistently showed that single-use disposable diapers, discarded Personal Protective Equipment, and bagged or bottled water are locally important constituents of mismanaged waste in both cities that should be addressed through urban waste management strategies. In both cities, there was generally excellent inter-observer reliability for density of burnt waste and density of large waste piles (concordance correlation coefficient > 0.9 for all but one observer pair), but weak to moderate inter-observer reliability for scattered waste density and densities of specific waste items such as disposable nappies and discarded Personal Protective Equipment. Our study shows that beach litter survey protocols can be adapted for use in slums. However, to generate robust estimates of scattered waste, its composition, and waste origins of policy concern in slums, assessment of inter-observer reliability should be incorporated into field team training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural utilization of processed municipal organic waste (AUPMOW) offers a method of recycling organic waste to enhance crop productivity, maintain soil health, and increase carbon storage in plants. By effectively implementing AUPMOW, it can significantly contribute to a circular economy by managing waste and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This review examines existing research on carbon mitigation through AUPMOW to guide future decisions on its implementation. It explores the mechanisms of carbon flow in agriculture and the characteristics of processed municipal organic waste (PMOW). Additionally, environmental, managerial, and systemic factors affecting AUPMOW efficacy are analyzed. Furthermore, it discusses the impact of policies and regulations on AUPMOW implementation. Some recommendations are made for optimizing current AUPMOW practices, including strengthening regulatory frameworks, managing soil contamination risks, reducing CH4 and N2O emissions during storage, considering long-term environmental impacts, selecting suitable locations, and employing minimally invasive farming methods. This review demonstrates how PMOW can improve soil carbon sequestration and offers a sustainable agricultural solution. It provides an overview of current research on the carbon mitigation potential of AUPMOW, recommends best management practices (BMPs) for future implementations, and identifies key insights for policymakers, emphasizing reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers and highlighting areas for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW), also called urban biowaste, and urban wastewater sludge (UWWS) represents a challenge for cities and regions, which want to adopt innovative urban bioeconomy approaches for their treatment and production of high-added-value products beyond the traditional anaerobic digestion (AD) and compost. This adoption is often restricted by the availability and maturity of technologies. The research object of this manuscript, based on the findings of EU Horizon 2020 project HOOP, is the identification of state-of-the-art circular technologies for material valorisation of OFMSW and UWWS, following a novel screening methodology based on the scale of implementation (tested at least at pilot scale). The screening resulted in 25 technologies, which have been compared and discussed under a multidisciplinary assessment approach, showing their enabling factors and challenges, their current or potential commercial status and their compatibility with the traditional technologies for urban biowaste treatment (composting and AD). The bioproducts cover market sectors such as agriculture, chemistry, nutrition, bioplastics, materials or cosmetics. Therefore, the results of this review help project promoters at city/region level to select innovative technologies for the conversion of OFMWS and UWWS into high value products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acrylic acid-grafted functionalized base polyurethane foam (PAA-g-PUf) is synthesized through mutual radiation grafting technique using acrylic acid as functional monomers and polyurethane form (PUf) with macroporous structure as base polymer, for the extraction of lead from the aqoueous waste streams. The incorporation of functionality on PUf is identified and confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy, degree of grafting and thermal stability by TGA–DSC technique while the surface morphology, and pores dimensions are evaluated by SEM techniques. The kinetics measurements indicate that the synthesized sorbent reaches its saturation sorption capacity within 10 min at ~ 25 °C under near-neutral pH condition. The monolayer sorption capacity of the synthesized PAA-g-PUf for lead ion (Pb2+) is calculated from Langmuir's model and found to be ~ 257 mg g−1, which is quite good as compared to the other functionalized material available. These grafted foams are quite efficient over a wide range of concentrations and temperature of the experimental solutions. In this study, the adsorbed lead ions are eluted out in 0.5 M HCl strippent efficiently. These sorbents exhibit excellent reusability up to five cycles without losing appreciable capacity, suggesting better usability in real water samples for many cycles. The polyurethane foam used was obtained from municipal waste, and hence, they cannot generate any additional secondary waste to the environment and make the process more sustainable and economically viable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the correlation between the collected municipal waste (MW) and the tourism intensity (TI) in five of Croatia's most popular tourist towns—Zagreb, Poreč, Rovinj, Split, and Dubrovnik—from 2015 to 2021. Furthermore, we conducted a comparative analysis of target scenarios for municipal waste reduction in these tourist towns based on population changes and the amount of separately collected and residual MW collected to achieve EU targets for processing MW for reuse and recycling. The TI indicator quantifies the population's theoretical multiplication during tourist influx, providing a clear picture of the pressure exerted by tourism. Rovinj and Poreč have the highest TIs, while larger cities like Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb have lower average TI values. The correlation between the collected MW and the tourism intensity in Dubrovnik is very high and positive, in Zagreb and Rovinj it is high and negative, while Split has a higher positive correlation than Poreč. The results for the MW preparation rates for reuse and recycling from 2015 to 2021 and future projections for 2021–2035 suggest that, in five of Croatia's leading tourist towns, the imperative must be to decrease residual MW, promote separation at the source, and separate MW collection to meet EU targets. Given the challenges of meeting all three—or even two or one—of the EU's targets of 50% by 2025, 60% by 2030, and 65% by 2035, the current waste separation system must be improved. This study contributes to the scientific community by addressing the gap in the current knowledge on the effects of population changes caused by tourism on MW in tourist destinations. The findings could be relevant for practitioners and policymakers planning MW collection, processing, and recovery in tourism-oriented economies, particularly in Croatia's top tourist destinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal organic solid waste in Palestine is causing several environmental and social problems. This paper studied management of this waste stream in the concept of urban mining and circular economy through composting and reuse the produced compost for different purposes as an indicator for the circular economy through the period extended from 2021 up to 2035. Two compost reuse scenarios are studied: use for agricultural purposes, and use as landfill cover materials. For agricultural purposes, compost can be used as an alternative fertilizer where nutrients in compost can replace the existing chemical fertilizers available in Palestine such as humic acid as a source of carbon, Ammonium Sulphate as a source of nitrogen, Triple Super Phosphate as a source of Phosphorus, and Potassium Phosphate source of Potassium. The estimated revenue from compost use in agriculture is USD 194.8 million in 2021 and USD 369.8 million in 2035. The estimated saving from using compost as landfill cover is USD 0.876 million annually, and USD 13.14 million during the 15 years' study period. Implementation of the circular economy principles in municipal solid waste management through composting can close the materials recycling loop, generating extra income, and adding net revenue to the national economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are environmental concerns (especially regarding climate change) associated with the negative effects of some pruning waste management practices. Converting urban tree waste into valuable products can help mitigate climate change, but it is important to quantify the repercussions of tree waste scenarios in an urban context. The objective of this study was to quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for six scenarios of urban pruning waste in urban areas. To this end, the life cycle assessment methodology was applied to real data obtained from five municipalities of the Paraíba state in 2012–2021 (northeast Brazil). The six scenarios were: sanitary landfill (current practice), sanitary landfill with methane capture, municipal incineration, reuse of wood, heat generation and electricity generation. Considering the 10-year period, the sanitary landfill emitted 1048 kt CO2e, and when methane was captured at the landfill, emissions decreased to 1033 kt CO2e. The lowest emissions were associated with electricity generation, with 854 kt CO2e. The municipality of João Pessoa presented the highest emissions, followed by Cabedelo, Santa Rita, Bayeux, and Conde. Transportation was responsible for the highest share of GHG emissions. Disposal of urban pruning waste at the sanitary landfill presented the highest emissions, and it has been demonstrated herein that pruning waste can be used for the production of bioenergy, with significant potential to mitigate GHG emissions at local levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective waste management is fundamental to sustainable development and the well-being of societies. This study focuses on the financial efficiency of urban waste collection in Portuguese municipalities, with the aim to analyze the effects of the allocation of public resources in the waste management sector. The main objective is to analyze the relationship between public spending and waste collection over a five-year period. Through the application of the classic data envelopment analysis model (DEA), the study seeks to observe the existence of benchmarking patterns, identify possible inefficiencies, and determine opportunities for improvement in urban waste management and collection practices. The results suggest substantial variations in waste collection efficiency between municipalities and a positive correlation between public spending and the volume of waste collected. The results emphasize the need for a strategic allocation of financial resources in order to promote sustainable waste management practices. The paper highlights the importance of municipalities reassessing their strategies for allocating financial resources to ensure a better balance between funding and efficiency in the use of resources. The conclusions offer valuable practical implications for defining strategies and managing municipal waste collection services in Portugal and other countries with similar contexts. AcknowledgmentThis article is financed by Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal [Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal].

Abstract From the useless municipal solid waste (MSW) ashes, CeO2, Gd2O3 and CeO2 + Gd2O3 doped borosilicate glasses were organized via melting-quenching procedure. Various optical, structural, physical and radiation shielding parameters were examined towards the influence of 100 kGy of γ-radiation. UV–visible NIR spectra revealed UV peaks at 351, 348 and 370 nm corresponding to the trivalent states of Ce3+ and Gd3+ ions, while, photoluminescence (PL) spectra displayed asymmetric broad excitations of Ce3+ and Gd3+ ions due to 4f → 5d transitions, and emission intense bands at 412, 434, and 417 nm. CIE chromaticity shows that Gd3+ ions increase the luminescence of Ce3+. FTIR absorption bands revealed an overlapping between tetrahedral groups of silicate (SiO4), with trigonal (BO3) and tetrahedral (BO4) units of borate. The influence of 100 kGy obtains quite reduction in UV–visible NIR and PL peaks, large stability in FTIR and ESR spectra, and stability of thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) as well. The whole data revealed optical, structural and physical stability of glasses after irradiation besides an enhancement in microhardness owing to more structural compactness and high bonding connectivity. Radiation shielding parameters from Phy-X/PSD program showed higher values of mass (MAC) and linear attenuation coefficients (LAC), and effective atomic number (Zeff) in the order of; glass Ce+Gd > glass Ce > glass Gd. Ce + Gd doped glass revealed also the lowest half value layer (HVL) comparing to other shielding commercial concretes. The study recommends the beneficial and economical use of the useless MSW ash to produce CeO2 and/or Gd2O3 borosilicate glasses with hopeful radiation shielding features.

Background: Poor sanitation safety in municipal solid waste management can cause environmental and public health problems. This is the case in Ethiopia, where the sanitation safety standards are low in the municipal solid waste management operations. Therefore, the sanitation safety practices along the solid waste management service chains in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia are poorly understood, and this research will contribute new insights for the scientific community and can also inform policies and the current solid waste management operations in Addis Ababa. Materials and Methods: This study evaluated the safety of sanitation practices in the solid waste management service chain using a community-based approach in Addis Ababa city from January to August 2023. We have interviewed 384 participants using a cluster-random sampling technique and collected data through direct observations and face-to-face interviews. The study employed descriptive statistics, factor analysis and multiple linear logistic regression to analyze the data. Results: The findings of the study revealed significant variations in sanitation safety practices and risks among households during solid waste management. While 60% of households practiced solid waste segregation, only 15% of them followed safe segregation practices. The majority of households (85%) used unsafe segregation practices, such as mixing different types of waste and storing wet and dry waste together. Additionally, 85% of households used storage and transport containers that had leaks, potentially leading to contamination and infection. Furthermore, the study identified sanitation safety risks and practices at waste collection and transport sites. The risks included solid waste droppings during transport, inadequate vehicle cleaning and disinfection, lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers, and uncovered waste collection vehicles, leading to environmental contamination. At transfer stations, the study found several risk factors, such as the lack of protection from animals and human activities, absence of shower facilities for workers, and inadequate storage facilities for PPE and tools. The transfer stations also lacked odor-neutralizing systems, proper waste handling practices, and physical fly barriers. Workers did not have the opportunity to shower after work, further increasing the risk. The sanitation safety practices and risks at solid waste treatment/disposal sites were also assessed. The study revealed medium risks associated with waste treatment/disposal operations, including working without PPE, handling contaminated containers and raw waste, and releasing airborne particulates that could be inhaled by workers or the nearby community. Factor analysis was conducted to categorize the variables related to sanitation safety practices. Six factors were identified, explaining approximately 60.6% of the overall variance. These factors represented different aspects of sanitation safety, including onsite waste handling practices, failure to maintain proper standards, risks related to unsafe waste storage, failure to properly store wastes at the household level, having safe storage practices, and unsafe waste segregation and storage. The study also examined the association between sanitation safety practices and sociodemographic factors using multiple linear regression analysis. Marital status, education, occupation, and income were found to be significant factors influencing sanitation safety practices during onsite waste handling. Income and marital status had the highest contribution, while occupation had the lowest contribution. Conclusion and Recommendation: the research findings highlight the wide variation in sanitation safety practices and risks associated with solid waste management. The study emphasizes the need for improved waste management practices at the household level, waste collection and transport sites, transfer stations, and waste treatment/disposal sites. The identified risk factors should be addressed through targeted interventions, including public awareness campaigns, proper training of waste management workers, and the implementation of safety protocols and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, sociodemographic factors play a role in determining sanitation safety practices, emphasizing the importance of considering these factors when developing waste management strategies and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heterogeneous constitution of municipal solid waste and problems associated with the prediction of the stability of landfills require an in-situ assessment of mechanical properties. Dynamic cone penetration (DCP) tests were conducted in-situ in seven test pits in a municipal landfill in south-western Johannesburg, and samples excavated from each test pit were used to determine other laboratory geotechnical properties. The composition of pits involves plastics, textiles, leather, metal, glass, soils, gravel, debris, wood and garden cuts, paper, cardboards and organics. The dynamic cone penetration index (DCPI) results from seven test pits revealed that the DCPI of half of the pits was in the range of 0–10 mm/blow, while the others were in the range of 10–20 mm/blow. The in-situ density of the municipal solid waste (MSW) indicates a predominantly loose to medium-density in-situ compaction state. Fibrous content and construction debris are the two dominant waste compositions. DCPI was found to decrease with a ratio of fibrous to construction debris greater than 1.0. Relationships between DCPI and products of specific gravity (Gs) and dry density from laboratory and in-situ tests are moderately correlated with coefficients of determination (r2) of 0.61 and 0.71, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this paper is the research and analysis of municipal waste stream management in rural areas, potentially designed for energy purposes in thermal treatment systems. The research section includes granulometric, morphological, and physicochemical analyses to determine waste parameters. Studies have indicated that the calorific value for mixed municipal waste ranged between 6.5 and 9.5 MJ∙kg, while following mechanical treatment for the oversize fraction over 80 mm ranged between 11.6 and 12.7 MJ∙kg. The biodegradable fraction content analysis of waste—granulation 10 to 20 mm—demonstrated its presence at the level of 80%, which may be used to produce biogas. Studies have shown that the humidity level of waste generated in rural areas is in the range of 32.9 to 40.9%, which does not disqualify it from energy use in the production of refuse-derived fuel. Implementing a circular economy in the municipal waste sector aims at minimizing the use of raw materials, limiting municipal waste generation and greenhouse gases emissions, and increasing the level of energy use. Implementing new municipal waste management models is crucial to achieve a balanced, low-emission, waste-free, and competitive economy. The results are a significant research input for a group of municipal wastes generated in rural areas, such as refuse-derived fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) system has been used as a unit of study to apply the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach. Kanjur waste processing facility Mumbai, India was selected for technological performance assessment. The paper analyses multiple strategies for managing the MSW and the comparison of strategies is done to study impact on Global Warming Potential (GWP), Eutrophication Potential (GW) and Acidification potential (AP), which are the critical impact areas of MSW processing. The scenarios included were transportation, material recovery, direct landfill with the recovery of LFG, composting of the source-separated organic fraction with landfilling and biomining. Landfilling and the release of LFG (Landfill Gas), electricity generation from LFG, flaring of LFG were other assessed interventions. The scenarios were modelled using the CML impact characterisation method. The results highlight that sorting, biomining, composting, landfilling with energy recovery has the minimal impact on the environment compared to strategies where direct landfilling was considered. On a life cycle view, the transportation of waste to the processing site caused a significant global warming impact and is a hotspot, which can be considered for impact mitigation. Initiatives like RDF reuse, leachate recirculation, LFG recovery, biomining are other circular practices that lead to a significant reduction in GWP, EP and AP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Appropriate waste generation and management is becoming increasingly important in making food systems more sustainable. It is, therefore, imperative to both reduce waste generation and sustainably manage the waste that cannot be reduced. However, this is challenging due to the heterogeneity of waste materials, the high economic costs of optimizing food systems and the low awareness of the issue in some societies. This article analyzes three case studies that explore improvements in waste management in the food sector in Europe, Africa and Asia. The case studies focus on a horticultural cooperative in Spain, a seafood company in Tunisia and municipal waste management in Hong Kong, highlighting different challenges and approaches. Key factors for horticultural waste management include a consistent regulatory framework, appropriate management systems and waste traceability. The article also highlights the potential for valorisation of waste products, such as blue crab by-products, which can be used to obtain polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins and minerals. A shift from landfill to anaerobic digestion is also recommended for a more sustainable waste management. By identifying and quantifying waste streams and problematic waste types, alternative solutions can be developed to improve the sustainability of the global food supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the useless municipal solid waste (MSW) ashes, CeO2, Gd2O3 and CeO2 + Gd2O3 doped borosilicate glasses were organized via melting-quenching procedure. Various optical, structural, physical and radiation shielding parameters were examined towards the influence of 100 kGy of γ-radiation. UV–visible NIR spectra revealed UV peaks at 351, 348 and 370 nm corresponding to the trivalent states of Ce3+ and Gd3+ ions, while, photoluminescence (PL) spectra displayed asymmetric broad excitations of Ce3+ and Gd3+ ions due to 4f → 5d transitions, and emission intense bands at 412, 434, and 417 nm. CIE chromaticity shows that Gd3+ ions increase the luminescence of Ce3+. FTIR absorption bands revealed an overlapping between tetrahedral groups of silicate (SiO4), with trigonal (BO3) and tetrahedral (BO4) units of borate. The influence of 100 kGy obtains quite reduction in UV–visible NIR and PL peaks, large stability in FTIR and ESR spectra, and stability of thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) as well. The whole data revealed optical, structural and physical stability of glasses after irradiation besides an enhancement in microhardness owing to more structural compactness and high bonding connectivity. Radiation shielding parameters from Phy-X/PSD program showed higher values of mass (MAC) and linear attenuation coefficients (LAC), and effective atomic number (Zeff) in the order of; glass Ce+Gd > glass Ce > glass Gd. Ce + Gd doped glass revealed also the lowest half value layer (HVL) comparing to other shielding commercial concretes. The study recommends the beneficial and economical use of the useless MSW ash to produce CeO2 and/or Gd2O3 borosilicate glasses with hopeful radiation shielding features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste generated from community life activities continues to increase along with economic development and population growth. Systematic, comprehensive, and sustainable waste management is needed to overcome problems related to waste generation, both through efforts to reduce and handle waste. One waste management innovation is using fuel waste, called Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). Utilization of RDF can process waste on a large scale and can be a substitute for fossil fuels for industry, one of which is the cement industry. This research analyzes the financial feasibility of processing waste into RDF for cement factories. The case study was carried out at a landfill in Ogan Komering Ulu Regency - South Sumatra Province, with PT Semen Baturaja Tbk as offtaker of RDF. Financial feasibility analysis uses Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Payback Period (PP), and Profitability Index (PI) indicators. A sensitivity analysis of financial feasibility was carried out on changes in RDF selling prices and operational costs. This analysis of the scenario 1 (70% equity : 30% debt) and the scenario 2 (30% equity : 70% debt) shows that the Project of RDF Plant is feasible to implement. Sensitivity analysis of scenario 1 and 2 are not feasible at 20% decrease in selling price and scenario 2 is not feasible at 20% increase in investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the drivers and constraints in small and medium enterprise (SME) compliance with the Zimbabwean municipal solid waste management (MSWM) regulations. A total of 220 respondents out of 230 samples were surveyed with questionnaires as a research instrument. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. The results illustrated that a majority of respondents were male (72%) aged between 31 and 60, primarily with secondary education. Perceptions of MSWM regulations revealed that while respondents acknowledged the positive aspects of the regulations, such as promoting waste minimization and being environmentally effective, there were reservations about the regulations being SME based and people friendly. Additionally, the clarity of roles and responsibilities within the regulations and their ability to address noncompliance raised concerns among the SMEs. Implementation challenges were prevalent, with many SMEs facing limited funds and budget constraints for equipment and updates related to MSWM regulations. The drivers for compliance were identified from the results as business and environmental benefits, such as increased profits and financial opportunities, reduced waste, and promoting a circular economy. On the contrary, the constraints include several aspects from both the SMEs' and the authorities' sides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the scope of the green energy and climatic changes waste poses as a great resource as an alternative fuel or source for their production. This helps to decrease the need for fossil resources, as well as diversify energy production. This kind of waste utilization and mitigation therefore directly fits into latest legislation and green initiatives. This paper focuses on the influence of five synthesis gases with relatively high heating values on the internal parameters of the internal combustion engine intended for cogeneration. Measurements show that proportion of the hydrogen in the mixture has indirect influence on the combustion duration and also maximal pressure rise rate. Interestingly hydrogen proportion in fuel showed no direct influence on the maximal in-cylinder pressure. Higher CO to CH4 ratio reduced burn time and increased maximal combustion pressure with slightly decreased performance. Concentration of CH4 directly influenced volumetric LHV value of the mixture with subsequent influence on the IMEP and engine effective torque. Generally, operation of the engine at full load at 1500 min−1 on chosen mixtures compared to the runs on methane showed decrease of engine torque output of up to 13.4% and increase of the hourly fuel consumption from 1.56 for pure methane to maximally 3.87 kg.h−1 for measured gases. Lastly, for one of the fuels erratic engine operation was observed.

Abstract Circular economy (CE) has attracted considerable attention from governments, policymakers, and societies due to its potential to promote sustainable development goals while shifting away from linear economy models. Despite a growing body of research conducted in the CE, the barriers to its successful implementation for solid waste management (SWM) remain less explored especially in context of municipal solid wastes, and commercial and industrial wastes. The purpose of this current study is to identify the critical barriers to circular economy implementation in SWM. The scientometric analysis of literature is the research methodology in this study. A total of 1709 journal articles were searched and retrieved from Scopus database for the data analysis. The results show that circular economy has not gained much root in solid waste management in the global south. Countries such as China, United States, Australia, Italy, and United Kingdom (UK) are the topmost countries to fund research in this research area. The commonly used keywords in scholarly literature on this topic include sustainability, reuse, waste management and recycle. Further, the major findings of the study were grouped into clusters relating to challenges on macroeconomic policies, recycling and reuse of waste, stakeholder management, operation, and legal regulations, generated solid wastewater treatment, and construction and demolition waste. The contributions of this research are twofold: a comprehensive list of relevant gaps for further studies are provided for the scientific community to delve into this matter and proffer solutions. The findings could serve as a guide to understand and develop best practice framework on circular economy and its implementation in the SWM.

This research identifies the productivity of landfill gas actively captured at a municipal waste landfill site with a waste mass exceeding 1 million Mg from sectors in the operational and non-operational phases, considering meteorological conditions. Based on the analysis of landfill gas, including emissions and composition (CH4, CO2, O2, and other gases), the processes occurring demonstrate the impact of the decomposition of deposited waste on the activity of the deposit. With average monthly gas emissions exceeding 960,000 m3, the average content of CH4 (30–63%) and CO2 (18–42%) and the varied content of O2 (0.3–9.8%) in individual sectors of the landfill site were significant. The statistically significant relationship between CH4, CO2, and landfill gas emissions exhibited a noticeable decrease in methane content. Despite the abandonment of waste storage, a high correlation is present between the emission level and methane content (0.59) and carbon dioxide (0.50). In the operational part of the landfill, this relationship is also statistically significant but to a lesser extent; Spearman's R-value was 0.42 for methane and 0.36 for carbon dioxide. The operational and post-operational phases of the municipal waste landfill demonstrated a noticeable impact from the amount of precipitation, relative humidity, and air temperature, on landfill gas productivity. The generally progressive decline in the activity of the waste deposit, which reflects a decreasing trend in the methane content of approximately 2% annually in the total composition of landfill gas, as well as the share below 50%, indicates the need only to utilise landfill without producing energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employs a life cycle perspective to analyze the carbon footprints of various waste streams, evaluating 52 cases across 26 types of household waste in Sweden, with a focus on waste prevention and management. It demonstrates that while recycling can reduce carbon emissions, prevention could significantly enhance these benefits, with savings ranging from −36.5 to −0.01 kg-CO2-eq per kg of waste. Notably, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), textiles, tires, residual household, and plastic waste are the top five fractions most amenable to prevention on a per mass basis. Further analysis, considering waste volumes, shows that targeted recycling of materials like WEEE, metals, and paper could account for over 80% of potential carbon savings. However, the majority of potential climate impact is attributed to the energy recovery of unsorted (mixed) waste, contributing to more than 90% of total impacts. Redirecting all mixed waste to recycling could triple carbon savings, but focusing on prevention could potentially increase benefits twenty-sevenfold, particularly for waste like WEEE, food, and textiles. This research provides a valuable tool for identifying key areas in waste management to optimize climate benefits and enhance public awareness. However, it advises using local data for precise planning due to inherent uncertainties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the combustion characteristics of municipal waste materials and reduce excess pollutants generated during the incineration process, this study develops a novel waste incinerator with an α-shaped flue gas route. This has been achieved through the application of momentum vector synthesis theory in order to modify the secondary air structure in a conventional incinerator, resulting in enhanced combustion efficiency of the incinerator. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) based cold state test results demonstrate that with appropriate modifications to the design of the incinerator, the flue gas propagates through a longer α-shaped route rather than conventional L-shaped route. Hot state tests have been carried out on a full scale 750 tons/day waste incinerator. Test rests show that the temperature of the flue gas increases by 138% under the front arch when secondary air supply is being incorporated into the design of the incinerator, resulting in better combustion of the municipal waste materials, lower emissions and higher thermal efficiency of the incinerator. The results obtained in this study confirm the rationality and feasibility of momentum flow rate method for better design of waste incinerators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consistent and continuous growth in the world's population is creating many challenges for public policymakers in the different life areas, including dealing with the increasing amounts of waste that are generating problems involving air and land pollution and a shortage of land for waste disposal. This study presents the effects of public policy on managing municipal waste, measured as the quantity and rate of waste collected throughout Israel in recent years and disposed of in various landfills. An analysis of the political and economic factors affecting this policy is also conducted. The study combines a quantitative and qualitative approach, where the quantitative study includes the analysis of statistical data based on information from the Central Bureau of Statistics, the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the Ministry of Finance, and others, and the qualitative study relies on reading and analyzing the primary documents of different government ministries on Israel's waste disposal policy and information in the media on this issue. The research findings attest to an increase in the amount of municipal waste dumped in Israel, a merely slight decrease in the rate of landfilling as a proportion of all municipal waste disposal, and a merely slight increase in the rate of municipal waste recycled in recent years. The research conclusions stress the effects of the landfill levy and the Cleanliness Maintenance Fund on one hand and of government instability in the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the positivist policy embraced by decision makers in the Ministry of Environmental Protection, and the power struggles between Israel's different ministries on the other hand, as the respective economic and political factors affecting Israeli policy on municipal waste management. The article contributes to understanding the dynamics of municipal waste management policy in Israel by providing empirical data, analyzing influencing factors, and offering insights into the challenges and opportunities in this area. This study can serve as the basis for future studies that will examine the waste landfill policy in Israel in the context of pressing global challenges such as climate change, the advancement of novel waste treatment technologies, and the potential stabilization of Israel's political system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular economy (CE) has attracted considerable attention from governments, policymakers, and societies due to its potential to promote sustainable development goals while shifting away from linear economy models. Despite a growing body of research conducted in the CE, the barriers to its successful implementation for solid waste management (SWM) remain less explored especially in context of municipal solid wastes, and commercial and industrial wastes. The purpose of this current study is to identify the critical barriers to circular economy implementation in SWM. The scientometric analysis of literature is the research methodology in this study. A total of 1709 journal articles were searched and retrieved from Scopus database for the data analysis. The results show that circular economy has not gained much root in solid waste management in the global south. Countries such as China, United States, Australia, Italy, and United Kingdom (UK) are the topmost countries to fund research in this research area. The commonly used keywords in scholarly literature on this topic include sustainability, reuse, waste management and recycle. Further, the major findings of the study were grouped into clusters relating to challenges on macroeconomic policies, recycling and reuse of waste, stakeholder management, operation, and legal regulations, generated solid wastewater treatment, and construction and demolition waste. The contributions of this research are twofold: a comprehensive list of relevant gaps for further studies are provided for the scientific community to delve into this matter and proffer solutions. The findings could serve as a guide to understand and develop best practice framework on circular economy and its implementation in the SWM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern civilization is profoundly dependent on water as a resource for various purposes. The wastewater from various sources contains various pollutants, including dyes, heavy metals, etc. Purification of this wastewater is of utmost importance and can be achieved through various technological applications. In this study, a char, synthesized from municipal plastic waste, pyrolyzed at high temperature with zeolite as catalyst, in an inert atmosphere was obtained. It was further thermally processed to remove a widely known water-soluble dye, present in industrial effluents, of anionic origin, Congo Red (CR), in an aqueous solution. Along with that, this study was aimed to understand the role of different conditions viz. dosage, pH, Temperature, and contact time in various adsorption kinetics and isotherm models. The highest removal 99.90%, was obtained with 1 gm/L adsorbent dosage, at pH 4, 308 K temperature across 180 min of contact time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of a char derived from fruit peel waste and other municipal wastes as solid fuel depends on its physico-chemical properties. In this work, fruit peel waste (FW) along their mixture with facial tissue waste (FT) and wrapping paper waste (WP) as well as their respective hydrochars (FWHC, FTHC, and WPHC) produced via hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) was characterized in detail to ascertain their applicability as solid fuel. Moreover, the elemental O contents for FTHC and WPHC were about 12.8 and 5.1% respectively higher than FWHC. Heating value analysis indicated that WPHC had the highest HHV of 5164 kcal/kg. Combustion kinetic studies, carried out by thermogravimetric technique, revealed that about 33.78 kJ/mol of energy was required to generate a combustion reaction for WP, higher than the energy required to ignite WPHC (28.2 kJ/mol). The regression coefficient (R2) values were higher than 0.94, indicating that the Arrhenius equation could be used to model the sample combustion process. Overall, the study showed that Co-HTC of FW with paper-based municipal waste such FT and WP is an effective method of converting FW to a cleaner hydrochar (HC) with high calorific value and less sulphur content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundPoor sanitation safety in municipal solid waste management can cause environmental and public health problems. This is the case in Ethiopia, where the sanitation safety standards are low in the municipal solid waste management operations. Therefore, the sanitation safety practices along the solid waste management service chains in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia are poorly understood, and this research will contribute new insights for the scientific community and can also inform policies and the current solid waste management operations in Addis Ababa.Materials and MethodsThis study evaluated the safety of sanitation practices in the solid waste management service chain using a community-based approach in Addis Ababa city from January to August 2023. We have interviewed 384 participants using a cluster-random sampling technique and collected data through direct observations and face-to-face interviews. The study employed descriptive statistics, factor analysis and multiple linear logistic regression to analyze the data.ResultsThe findings of the study revealed significant variations in sanitation safety practices and risks among households during solid waste management. While 60% of households practiced solid waste segregation, only 15% of them followed safe segregation practices. The majority of households (85%) used unsafe segregation practices, such as mixing different types of waste and storing wet and dry waste together. Additionally, 85% of households used storage and transport containers that had leaks, potentially leading to contamination and infection. Furthermore, the study identified sanitation safety risks and practices at waste collection and transport sites. The risks included solid waste droppings during transport, inadequate vehicle cleaning and disinfection, lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers, and uncovered waste collection vehicles, leading to environmental contamination. At transfer stations, the study found several risk factors, such as the lack of protection from animals and human activities, absence of shower facilities for workers, and inadequate storage facilities for PPE and tools. The transfer stations also lacked odor-neutralizing systems, proper waste handling practices, and physical fly barriers. Workers did not have the opportunity to shower after work, further increasing the risk. The sanitation safety practices and risks at solid waste treatment/disposal sites were also assessed. The study revealed medium risks associated with waste treatment/disposal operations, including working without PPE, handling contaminated containers and raw waste, and releasing airborne particulates that could be inhaled by workers or the nearby community. Factor analysis was conducted to categorize the variables related to sanitation safety practices. Six factors were identified, explaining approximately 60.6% of the overall variance. These factors represented different aspects of sanitation safety, including onsite waste handling practices, failure to maintain proper standards, risks related to unsafe waste storage, failure to properly store wastes at the household level, having safe storage practices, and unsafe waste segregation and storage. The study also examined the association between sanitation safety practices and sociodemographic factors using multiple linear regression analysis. Marital status, education, occupation, and income were found to be significant factors influencing sanitation safety practices during onsite waste handling. Income and marital status had the highest contribution, while occupation had the lowest contribution.Conclusion and Recommendationthe research findings highlight the wide variation in sanitation safety practices and risks associated with solid waste management. The study emphasizes the need for improved waste management practices at the household level, waste collection and transport sites, transfer stations, and waste treatment/disposal sites. The identified risk factors should be addressed through targeted interventions, including public awareness campaigns, proper training of waste management workers, and the implementation of safety protocols and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, sociodemographic factors play a role in determining sanitation safety practices, emphasizing the importance of considering these factors when developing waste management strategies and interventions.

Theoretical background: As we work towards achieving sustainable development under Goal 12, which entails promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns, one of our key tasks is to minimize waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reusing. Local government units (LGUs) have a significant role to play in implementing this task. By investing in municipal waste management, LGUs can influence the behavior of residents toward responsible waste collection and management, including hazardous waste. Purpose of the article: This article aims to evaluate how local government spending affects municipal waste management in different voivodeships. The hypothesis of this paper is that local government expenditure improve waste management effects. To achieve effective spending that supports sustainable development, public authorities at the regional level must coordinate their activities and adapt to EU standards. Research methods: This article used literature and statistical analysis to adopt dynamics indicators and correlation coefficients. Data on selected variables for the study came from the Local Data Bank of the Central Statistical Office and Eurostat. Main findings: According to the analyses conducted, there has been a positive development in municipal waste management in Polish communes. This suggests that the government’s policies are contributing towards achieving the sustainable development goal of responsible and sustainable waste management, especially when it comes to hazardous waste. These findings could be utilized to recommend to public authorities the necessary changes to fiscal instruments that would promote sustainable public finances.

The article presents Polish and related EU legal basis for thermal waste conversion (in particular municipal waste and waste of municipal origin) as an energy source. It was hypothesized that at the current stage of systemic development of municipal waste management in Polish legal conditions, thermal waste conversion is an extremely important element which not only allows for achieving quantifiable environmental benefits, but also constitutes a source of energy. However, waste incineration cannot be treated as a fundamental element of closed-loop waste management. Waste incineration plants are and should be treated as an element of complementing the waste system, taking into account energy recovery in the cogeneration system, but also the limitations arising from taxonomy. The unquestionable advantage of this type of installation is the possibility of producing thermal energy and a more beneficial impact on the environment than the combustion of fossil fuels.

The paper summarizes the research results on the development country country-specific emissions factors for the Greenhouse Gas Inventory (GHGI) for Source Category “5A Solid Waste Disposal on Land”, namely the degradable organic carbon (DOC), fraction of degradable organic carbon which decomposes (DOCf) and fraction of methane. The factors are determined based on the results of the survey on composition of municipal solid waste, which was investigated during one year in the Republic of Moldova: from spring 2023 to 2024. The obtained on morphological composition and results refer to three seasons: spring, summer and autumn and offer the opportunity to observe the variations among the seasons. After finalizing the survey on morphological composition, the final results will be used for estimation of country specific emission factors, which will allow to estimate accurately the emissions of methane from landfilling of waste in the Republic of Moldova, necessary for development of policy framework and tracking the progress in achievement of NDC. It will also improve the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) methodologies and Emission Factors for assessing the GHG emissions originated from waste sector.

There are environmental concerns (especially regarding climate change) associated with the negative effects of some pruning waste management practices. Converting urban tree waste into valuable products can help mitigate climate change, but it is important to quantify the repercussions of tree waste scenarios in an urban context. The objective of this study was to quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for six scenarios of urban pruning waste in urban areas. To this end, the life cycle assessment methodology was applied to real data obtained from five municipalities of the Paraíba state in 2012–2021 (northeast Brazil). The six scenarios were: sanitary landfill (current practice), sanitary landfill with methane capture, municipal incineration, reuse of wood, heat generation and electricity generation. Considering the 10-year period, the sanitary landfill emitted 1048 kt CO2e, and when methane was captured at the landfill, emissions decreased to 1033 kt CO2e. The lowest emissions were associated with electricity generation, with 854 kt CO2e. The municipality of João Pessoa presented the highest emissions, followed by Cabedelo, Santa Rita, Bayeux, and Conde. Transportation was responsible for the highest share of GHG emissions. Disposal of urban pruning waste at the sanitary landfill presented the highest emissions, and it has been demonstrated herein that pruning waste can be used for the production of bioenergy, with significant potential to mitigate GHG emissions at local levels.

In this study, we examined the correlation between the collected municipal waste (MW) and the tourism intensity (TI) in five of Croatia’s most popular tourist towns—Zagreb, Poreč, Rovinj, Split, and Dubrovnik—from 2015 to 2021. Furthermore, we conducted a comparative analysis of target scenarios for municipal waste reduction in these tourist towns based on population changes and the amount of separately collected and residual MW collected to achieve EU targets for processing MW for reuse and recycling. The TI indicator quantifies the population’s theoretical multiplication during tourist influx, providing a clear picture of the pressure exerted by tourism. Rovinj and Poreč have the highest TIs, while larger cities like Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb have lower average TI values. The correlation between the collected MW and the tourism intensity in Dubrovnik is very high and positive, in Zagreb and Rovinj it is high and negative, while Split has a higher positive correlation than Poreč. The results for the MW preparation rates for reuse and recycling from 2015 to 2021 and future projections for 2021–2035 suggest that, in five of Croatia’s leading tourist towns, the imperative must be to decrease residual MW, promote separation at the source, and separate MW collection to meet EU targets. Given the challenges of meeting all three—or even two or one—of the EU’s targets of 50% by 2025, 60% by 2030, and 65% by 2035, the current waste separation system must be improved. This study contributes to the scientific community by addressing the gap in the current knowledge on the effects of population changes caused by tourism on MW in tourist destinations. The findings could be relevant for practitioners and policymakers planning MW collection, processing, and recovery in tourism-oriented economies, particularly in Croatia’s top tourist destinations.