Solid Waste Recycling and Processing

Solid Waste Recycling and Processing, 2nd edition, provides best-practice guidance to solid waste managers and recycling coordinators covering all aspects of solid waste processing, volume-reduction and recycling, encompassing typical recyclable materials (paper, plastics, cans, and organics) construction and demolition debris, electronics, etc. It includes techniques, technologies, and programs to help maximize customer participation rates and revenues, as well as to minimize operating costs. The book is packed with lessons learned by the authors during the implementation of the most successful programs worldwide. Numerous case studies are provided to show how different systems work in different settings.

The authors provide a critical survey of what has worked and what has not over recent years, and assess the next generation of challenges and possible solutions. For example, there is continuing debate within the industry about the merits of curbside sort versus single stream recycling and the use of advanced technology in materials recovery facilities. The book provides key facts and figures, and provides brief summaries of legislation in the United States, Europe, and Asia. An extensive glossary demystifies the terminology and acronyms used in different sectors and geographies. The authors also explain emerging concepts in recycling such as zero waste, sustainability, LEED certification, and pay-as-you-throw, and place waste management and recycling in the wider context of economic, environmental (sustainability), political and societal factors.

• Covers single and mixed waste-streams
• Evaluates the technologies and tradeoffs of recycling of materials vs. integrated solutions including combustion and other transformational options.
• Covers recycling as part of the bigger picture of solid waste management, processing and disposal.