Separate collection of packaging waste: characterization and impacts

Oliveira, V.; Vaz, João Miguel; Sousa, V.; Ferreira, Célia

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.2/14507

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Abstract(s)

This study evaluates separate collection rate of packaging waste in the coastal area of the “Centro” region of Portugal, where collection is based on road-side waste containers. The area comprises 42 municipalities and the collection system of two waste management companies were studied: ERSUC and VALORLIS. In 2015, the average separate collection rate was 7.6% (30.7 kg person−1 year−1), in ERSUC, and 7.7% (29.2 kg person−1 year−1), in VALORLIS. Furthermore, separate collection rates varied significantly between municipalities, ranging from 4.5% to 12.6% of the total waste generated. Recyclables in unsorted waste represent a significant economic and environmental burden, and municipalities could save 8.1 million euros per year and avoid the emission of 86 thousand tonnes of CO2 equivalent. The implementation of door-to-door collection and adoption of variable waste tariffs are further efforts required to increase separate collection rate, in order to achieve national targets.