A comprehensive overview of waste management systems
What is a waste management system?
Effective and efficient waste management systems are crucial for maintaining clean and sustainable sites and projects. These systems will typically include the collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of waste being generated.
Implementing waste management is crucial for any site or project. Firstly, it highlights areas that could reduce the amount of waste being generated in and sent to landfills. This not only increases the amount of space on your site but also decreases greenhouse gas emissions, due to the decrease in transport requirements as a result. Additionally, correct waste management can prevent pollution, creating more sustainable business practices to help protect both wildlife and human health.
Types of waste management systems
There are various types of waste management systems available, usually differing across industries, each suited to different waste types and business needs. The most common types are:
Recycling
Recycling involves the conversion of any waste material being generated into a new product. This process reduces the need for new raw materials to create products, subsequently conserving energy and minimising pollution being caused. Commonly, recycled materials will arrive from waste streams such as paper, glass, plastic, and metals.
A great example of a business prioritising recycling as a waste management system is Lush and the Body Shop. Through a ‘Bring it Back’ recycling scheme, it allows their customers to return plastic packaging from their products to any store in the UK and get 50p off instore spend. Once collected, this plastic packaging is then sent for recycling into new products.
Composting
Composting, another waste management system, is a natural process that turns organic waste from a business into nutrient-rich soil. This method is the perfect choice for businesses that generate lots of food waste, such as those operating in the hospitality and leisure industry. Composting reduces the need for waste going to landfill due to being used to enrich soil, promoting a regenerative solution to a challenging waste stream.
Whilst the emphasis for any business should be to reduce the waste being generated in the first place, composting can be an effective alternative. Many businesses operating in the hospitality industry have recognised the global issues surrounding food waste, with pioneers such as Hilton transforming the way waste is handled through an AI solution that helps track and analyse what food is being thrown away. This data is then used to determine if ordering can be limited for certain food produce, with the hotels pilot studies showing a 62% reduction in pre and post-consumer waste across breakfasts!
Incineration
Incineration, a less preferred waste management system but still effective, involves burning waste at high temperatures to reduce its volume. This process reduces waste volume significantly and can generate energy. However, it requires strict controls to minimise air pollution.
Landfills
Landfills are designated areas where waste is sent to stockpiled or buried. Modern landfills, however, are designed to contain waste to stop any potential contamination of the surrounding environment and its wildlife.
Benefits of waste management systems
Implementing advanced waste management systems offer numerous benefits for businesses. These systems can enhance recycling rates, improve sustainability efforts, and support environmental performance. They can also create job opportunities in waste management and recycling industries, with many facilities requiring operators to help effectively manage and process the waste arriving.
Solutions for effective waste management
Addressing waste management challenges require a multifaceted approach for any business.
Education and awareness
Collaboration is key, everybody needs to be onboard for a waste management system to work, which makes the education of workforces vital for promoting sustainability and proper waste management. Businesses can use internal campaigns and programs can teach workforces about the benefits of waste management and how to participate effectively.
Legislation
Legislation updates play a significant role in how a waste management system is put together. Internal regulations and incentives can encourage recycling and the use of sustainable practices; however, government legislation will be the driving force behind how waste is being managed. A recent example is the introduction of the Welsh Waste Legislation, which saw both businesses and domestic waste requiring improved segregation by law.
Technology and innovation
Technology has the most power to enhance waste management efficiency, even more so now with the introduction of AI capabilities. Innovations such as smart bins, waste-to-energy plants, and advanced sorting technologies can improve the waste processing and can subsequently increase segregation levels.
Conclusion
Efficient waste management systems are crucial for businesses to improve their sustainability objectives. By understanding the importance and types of waste management systems, businesses can make informed choices. Overcoming challenges through education, policy, and technology will ensure cleaner and healthier environments for all.
If your business would like to discuss how it can implement a tailored system to waste management using a tech-enabled approach, please contact Reconomy today.