Carbon emission and landfill footprint constrained for waste management using cascade analysis

Abstract

An effective approach to handle overwhelmed generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) by waste diversion from landfill is envisaged in promoting the utilisation of the alternative options, such as recycling and waste to energy (WtE). As different waste components of the MSW account for the different landfill footprint as well as the emission impact, an effective landfilling practice can satisfy the target demand, while optimising the capacity of the landfill. A new numerical method of pinch analysis is applied for identifying the minimum capacity of total non-biodegradable (TnB) waste accepted in the landfill and the amount of biodegradable waste to be diverted from landfill. The algebraic technique of cascade analysis is performed to execute a systematic approach to sustainable landfilling practice for waste management. Based on the findings, the minimum area of TnB to allocate in the landfill is 4,027 m2 and 25,654 t of food waste is needed to be diverted from landfill. Waste Management Pinch Analysis (WAMPA) is then further applied to identify the optimal waste management strategy of the diverted waste. A hypothetical case study is provided to illustrate the technique.