Compatibility of Source Separation and Mixed-Waste Processing for Resource Recovery

摘要

Existing source separation programs and mixed-waste processing facilities were analyzed to develop typical options for assessment. Source separation options include high-efficiency multi-material recovery, low-efficiency multi-material recovery, high-efficiency newsprint recovery, low-efficiency newsprint recovery, and beverage container recoveries. Mixed-waste processing alternatives included unprocessed combined waste combustion and ferrous recovery, processed combined waste combustion and ferrous recovery, refuse-derived fuel production and ferrous recovery, and modular incineration. The analysis considered the viewpoints of the mixed-waste plant operator, the municipality, and the nation. Within four broad areas of concern (energy and materials conservation, environmental impacts, institutional and technological impacts, and economic impacts), issues identified as most important for each viewpoint are assessed for each combination of options and alternatives. Among the issues addressed are changes in production of useful energy from a mixed-waste processing facility, air, land, and water pollution emissions, contractors' employment, operator profitability, total solid waste collection costs, and quantities of recycled materials.