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The combination of these residues may represent 10% of the production.
The combination of these residues may represent 10% of the production.


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_1|thumb|right|200px|Injection carrot in a mold]]
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Injection carrot in a mold]]


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_2|thumb|right|200px|Grapes in a mold with four prints]]
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_2.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Grapes in a mold with four prints]]
   
   
The large processing companies usually have their own recycling channel (primary recycling). Those that can not afford this prefer outsourcing this activity by giving or selling it to workshops capabale of recycling them. They are generally interested in rebuying the then recycled plastics.
The large processing companies usually have their own recycling channel (primary recycling). Those that can not afford this prefer outsourcing this activity by giving or selling it to workshops capabale of recycling them. They are generally interested in rebuying the then recycled plastics.
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Farming and forestry activities also consume plastics for construction (irrigation pipes, stakes, tarps, ...) or for packaging (jerry cans, feed sacks, plastic film, ...). The deposits are often more distant, but this source should not be overlooked. With a good sensibilisation, farmers can store their plastic waste. We can then collect the waste once or twice a year.
Farming and forestry activities also consume plastics for construction (irrigation pipes, stakes, tarps, ...) or for packaging (jerry cans, feed sacks, plastic film, ...). The deposits are often more distant, but this source should not be overlooked. With a good sensibilisation, farmers can store their plastic waste. We can then collect the waste once or twice a year.


Photo 3.1: PVC covers for the storage of water
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_3.jpg|thumb|right|200px|PVC covers for the storage of water]]
   
   
Municipal waste
===Municipal waste===
"Unidentified mixed, soiled"
'''"Unidentified, mixed, fouled"'''
Waste plastics from municipal waste is usually the most important deposit. The deposit is directly linked to the consumption of the target population, for two reasons:
* A resident can generate up to 1 kg of waste per day if his means is high, but this value is less for a person of limited means (less than 0.5 kg per day);
* also, depending on the living standard, the plastic content in the waste represents 3 to 8% (by weight). Also, the amount of plastic waste generated per person per year can vary between 5 kg and 25 kg. These wastes are usually heterogeneous, dispersed, and very heavily fouled. They consist primarily of packaging films, bags, bottles, ...
Their supply is however regular. We can recover plastics from municipal waste:
* directly from the consumer (least fouled)
* from streets and parks (very fouled)
* from sorting centers (very fouled)
* from dumps (very fouled)
   
   
Waste plastics from garbage are usually the deposit
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_4.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Collection of waste in streets (Yaounde)]]
most important. The field is directly linked to the consumption level of
target population, for two reasons:
Sorting centers are usually micro-or small businesses that collect the household waste for conversion into compost. They often do a brief sorting of these wastes in order to extract the metals and plastics. If the metals are sometimes recovered, plastics are often placed together. They can represent significant deposits.
- A resident can make up to 1 kg of waste per day if different power
Buying high, but this value is less than 0.5 kg per day for a
person of limited means;
- Well, as the standard of living, the plastic content in waste
represent 3 to 8% (by weight).


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_5.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Hand-sorting of non-organic matter in a composting facility (Brazil)]]
   
   
Thus, the amount of plastic waste emitted per capita per year can vary between
In addition to the regular supply, it is important not to overlook the waste generated by
5 kg and 25 kg. These wastes are usually heterogeneous, and very heavily soiled
certain events such as local festivals, sidewalk sales, events, ... during which fouled waste plastics that are relatively well identified are discarded.
dispersed. They consist primarily of packaging films, bags, bottles, ...
 
Their flow is regular cons.
==Evaluation of a deposit==
We can recover plastics from municipal waste:
The goal of a deposit evaluation is to determine the potential waste plastics that are available for a project: location, quantity, quality, renewal, ...
- Directly at the head (least contaminated)
The evaluation result is an indispensable step for the selection and design of a recycling system. It helps to know the amount of waste that can be treated, the types of plastics to recycle, the collection system to implement, the choice of machines, the necessary investment, the required amount of labor, ...
- In streets and parks (very dirty)
- In sorting centers (very dirty)
- In the dumps (very dirty)
Photo 3.2: Collection of waste in the street (Yaounde)
The sorting centers are usually micro-or small businesses that carry the
collection of household waste into compost. They often make
sort summary of these wastes in order to extract the metals and plastics. If
Metals are sometimes recovered, plastics are often crowded. They can
represent significant deposits.
Photo 3.3: Hand-sorting of non-organic
a composting facility (Brazil)
In addition to regular contributions, it is important not to overlook the waste generated by
certain events such as local festivals, sidewalk sales, events, ...
during which waste plastics relatively well identified, but generally
contaminated are discarded.


2. Evaluation of a reservoir
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:left"
|-
The goal of a reservoir evaluation is to determine the potential
|Deposit evaluation campaign ||Choices of approach
waste plastics that are available for a project: location, quantity,
|-
quality, renewal, ...
|
The campaign score is an indispensable step for the selection and
* Amount of plastics available;
design a recycling system. It helps to know the amount of
* Main sources of waste;
waste can be treated, types of plastics recycling, the collection system
* Types of plastics (PE, PP, PVC, ...);
to implement the choice of machines, the necessary investment, labor
* Renewal of the amount of generated waste;
of work required, ...
* ... ||
* Types and quantities of the plastics to recycle;
Campaign Evaluation
* Choice of a collection system;
deposit
* Necessairy space for washing, drying, processing, ...
Choosing a path
* Capacity of the grinder and other machinery investments;
- Amount of plastics available;
* Types of endproducts; ...
- Main sources of waste;
|-
- Types of plastics (PE, PP, PVC, ...);
|}
- Renewal of the amount of
Table 3.1: Specifics in evaluating a deposit for choosing an approach in recycling.
waste emitted;
- ...
- Types and quantities of plastics
recycle;
- Choose a collection system;
- Space for washing,
drying, processing, ...
- Capacity of the mill and other
machinery investment;
- Types of outlets; ...
Table 3.1: Interest of evaluating a reservoir for choosing a path
recycling.
The following paragraphs describe the general approach for
Detailed campaign on all possible sources of supply.
When the outline of a project are already defined, it is not necessary
take into account all these steps. We leave the choice to the reader to refer
parties regarding its project.
Choose an area of exploration
Above all, it is important to choose wisely the geographical
in which plastics will be collected. It is certain that a project is not
another. Some constraints can directly define the collection area. Of
Similarly, the objectives for the project will be decisive.
Thus, for a project to recycle plastics with the objective part of a plan
A waste of a neighborhood or village, we will ensure broad sweep and
cover the entire waste generated in this area. On the contrary, if the intention is
manufacture of articles of quality recycled plastics, the initiator of the project
leads to areas with high income or highly industrialized in which the
quantity and quality of waste plastics are generally higher.
However, some criteria must guide the selection of an area:
1. We take care to select preferred areas closest to the center
recycling. Indeed, transport of waste plastic is expensive. This is the
their low density: 100 to 400 kg / m³. The volumes are moving
Important quickly. At transmission level, the location of the center is
obviously the center of the surveyed area.
   
   
2. The amount of plastic waste generated by a household is related to its
The following paragraphs describe the general approach for a detailed campaign relative to all possible sources of supply. When the outline of a project is already defined, it is not necessary
consumption, thus its purchasing power. We thus find more waste
to take into account all these steps. We leave the choice to the reader to refer to the third parties concerning his project.
plastic bins in neighborhoods rich and poor neighborhoods.
3. The larger the area, the greater the collection system is set up
important. Initially, it is better to be limited to a small area,
then expand.
4. Wherever possible, we try to bring up areas
Industrial. These are indeed generators of waste, but may
also be consumers of recycled plastics.
   
   
Characteristics of the study area
===Choosing a prospecting area===
The prospecting area is defined, a preliminary investigation is necessary to
Above all, it is important to choose the geographical location in which plastics will be collected wisely. It is certain that one project is not another. Some constraints can directly define the collection area. Similarly, the objectives to attain for the project will be decisive.
prepare the sampling campaign. The information gathered
Also, for a plastic recycling project of which the objective consists to cooperating with a plan
constitute a kind of identity card of the study area.
of waste managament in a neighborhood or village, we must ensure a large coverage of the generated waste in that zone. On the contrary, if the intention is to manufacture recycled plastic objects of quality, the project initiator will choose highly industrialized areas or areas with a high income where the quantity and quality of waste plastics are generally higher.
Such information can be found:
However, some criteria must determine the selection of an area:
- The size of the area szon (km ²), preferably evaluated using a map;
# We preferably select areas closest to the center of recycling. Indeed, transport of waste plastic is expensive. This is due to their low density: 100 to 400 kg/m³. The volumes to move thus become great quickly. At the transport level, the ideal location of the recycling center is obviously the center of the surveyed area.
- The number of inhabitants in the area nZone;
# The amount of plastic waste generated by a household is related to its consumption, thus its purchasing power. We thus find more plastic waste in dumpsters of rich neighborhoods than in poor neighborhoods.
- Population density ρzone, deduced from the first two given by the formula:
# The larger the area, the greater the collection system that needs to be set up. Initially, it is better to limit oneself to a small area, and then expand.
# Wherever possible, we try to integrate industrial areas. These indeed produce waste, but may also consume our recycled plastics.
   
   
²) /. (Km Hab
===Characteristics of the studied area===
S
Once the prospection of the area is finished, a preliminary investigation is necessary to prepare the sampling campaign. This gathered information makes up a kind of identity card of the studied area.
N
Amongst this information we find:
area
* The size of the area S<sub>zone</sub>(km²), preferably evaluated using a map;
area
* The number of inhabitants in the area N<sub>zone</sub>;
area = ρ
* Population density P<sub>zone</sub>, deduced from the first two numbers by the formula:
<math>P<sub>zone>/sub>=N<sub>zone>/sub>/S<sub>zone>/sub>(inhab./km²)</math>
- The climate of the region. This drying conditions: the number of
* The climate of the region. This affects the drying conditions: the number of days of sunshine, average temperature, rainfall, humidity, winds, ... All these data are used for choosing one or
days of sunshine, average temperature, rainfall, humidity,
the importance of wind ... All these data will opt for one or
another drying technique.
another drying technique.
- The main economic activities in the area: trade, agriculture, livestock,
* The main economic activities in the area: trade, agriculture, livestock, industries ...
industries ...
* A description of the habitat: rural or urban zones? The type of accommodation: detached house? buildings? farm? ...
- A description of habitat: rural or urban? The type of accommodation:
* Events and seasonal activities.
detached house? buildings? farm? ...
Events are special days during which the quantity of generated waste may be larger than usual: fairs, sidewalk sales, local events, festivals, ... During a characterization campaign, we will not include these events. It is however important to identify them because they can require waste collections.
- Events and seasonal activities.
Some regions enjoy seasonal activities. This is particularly the case in tourist areas where the influx of tourists during holiday periods increases the waste production (which may be significantly higher). It is then necessary to distinguish tourist periods from other periods.
Events are special days during which the quantity of waste
issued may be more important than usual fairs, sidewalk sales, events
local festivals, ... During a characterization, we will ensure not
take account of these events. It is however important to identify because
they can be input from additional waste.
Some regions enjoy seasonal activities. This is particularly the case of
tourist areas where the influx of tourists during holiday periods
increases waste which may be significant. It is then
necessary to distinguish the periods of other tourist periods.
   
   
Note:
Note:
Where too are marked differences within the study area, it is
Where too are great differences within the study area occur, it is preferable to divide it into smaller areas (subareas). Each sub-area is characterized in the same manner as a zone.
preferable to divide it into smaller areas (subareas). Each sub-area was
characterized in the same manner as a zone.
 
This can happen in the following situations:
This can happen in the following situations:
- Two areas where living standards are significantly different;
* Two areas where living standards are significantly different;
- An industrial zone abutting a residential zone;
* An industrial zone located next to a residential zone;
- Included a permanent market in a residential area, ...
* A permanent market integrated into a residential area, ...
   
   
Inventory of sources of waste plastics
===Inventory of sources of waste plastics===
Once the ID of the zone is established, we can consider the
Once the identity card of the zone is established, we can consider the possibilities to supply the waste plastics. This is done by making an inventory of the available sources. For each, we must collect a representative sample which, after characterization, evaluates the potential in recyclable plastics in the zone.
opportunities to supply waste plastics. This is done by drawing
inventory of available sources. For each, we must collect
representative samples which, after characterization, to evaluate the
potential recyclable plastic zone.
   
   
a. industrial waste
'''a. industrial waste'''
The enumeration of processors of plastics must be
The enumeration of plastic processing companies must be well beyond the borders of the targeted area. Indeed, they may play a determining role in the project: outsourcing of their internal waste, sale of used equipment, purchase of recycled plastics, ...
well beyond the borders of the targeted area. Indeed, they may play a role
 
factor in the project: under-treatment of domestic waste, sale of
used equipment, purchase of recycled plastics ...
For each, we collect the following information:
For each, we collect the following information:
- The type of plastic that they convert: PP, PVC, HDPE, LDPE, ...
* The type of plastic that they process: PP, PVC, HDPE, LDPE, ...
- The processing techniques used: injection, extrusion, blow molding, filming, ...
* The used processing techniques: injection, extrusion, blow molding, filming, ...
- Articles manufactured catch basins, chairs, films, bags, shoes, ...
* Manufactured articles: catch basins, chairs, films, bags, shoes, ...
- Production (t / month).
* Production (t/month).
They will also ask the following questions:
We will also ask them the following questions:
- Their business generates does it waste?
* Does their activity generate waste?
- If yes, where? Purges, carrots or grapes injection, defective parts, ...
* If so, what ? Purges, injection carrots or grapes, defective parts, ...
- Recycle their waste Internal (primary recycling)?
* Do they recycle their internal waste (primary recycling) ?
- Are they interested to outsource this activity (or part thereof)?
* Are they interested to outsource this activity (or a part thereof)?
- If yes, which? How much plastic that is there?
* If so, which? How much plastic does that represent ?
We will also use this contact to inquire about their interest
We will also use this meetup to inquire about their interest on working with recycled materials from the treatment center established by the project (see chapter 6).
work with materials recycled from the treatment center established by the
project (see Chapter 6).
   
   
In addition processors, it is important to identify all
Besides the plastic processing companies, it is important to also identify all other companies with activities that generate waste plastics and fall into our line of work.
companies with operations that generate waste plastics and
* What types of waste do they produce? How much? What do they make ?
meet their direction.
* Would they agree to work with a recycling center? Under what conditions? Would they agree to establish a selective collection system for these wastes in their company?
- What types waste they produce? By how much? What are they?
- Would they agree to entrust them to a recycling center? Under what
conditions? Would they agree to establish a collection system
these wastes in their company?
   
   
b. commercial garbage
'''b. commercial waste'''
At a campaign evaluation, it is not possible to go around all
On a campaign evaluation, it is not possible to go around all of the businesses in the area in question. We rather evaluate this waste deposit using the following methodology:
businesses in the area in question.
# Determine the businesses that are most likely to generate waste plastics, and group them by category. For each category, describe the types of waste likely to be produced.
# Select a few traders and undertake with them a campaign of selective collection of their waste plastics. It doesn't do any good to work with too many businesses: three to five are usually sufficient. After having well explained the aim of the campaign to the traders, we suggest them to put aside all their plastic waste which they obtain in a certain period of time. A fortnight is recommended. After this period, we harvest the waste and store it in bags on which we note the name of the business and the waste class.
# Weigh all the bags and note down the weight category in a table. When a sample of a class seems different, it is better to discard it rather than wanting to integrate it at any cost. Indeed, it may distort the results, more than provide interesting information.
# For each category, estimate the number of businesses present in the area of prospection.
# Calculate the quantity of waste available by category and then sum them up to get the total weight of the of commercial waste in the area to study.


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_6.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Weighing samples (Kinshasa, 2003)]]
We evaluate this deposit rather waste using the following methodology:
1. Determine the businesses most likely to generate waste plastics,
and group them by category. For each category, describe the types of waste
likely to be produced.
2. Select a few traders and undertake a campaign with them
selective collection of waste plastics. Nothing is working with a
Too many businesses: Three to five are usually sufficient. After
be well explained to the traders aim of the campaign, they suggested
put aside all the waste plastic to obtain a certain
period of time. A fortnight is recommended. After this
period, crop waste and stored in bags on which
Note the name of commerce and class.
3. Weigh all the bags and bring the weight category in the table
Summary. When a sample of a class seems different, it
is better to avoid that want to integrate it at any cost to others. Indeed, it
may distort the results, more than provide interesting information.
Photo 3.4: Weighing samples (Kinshasa, 2003)
4. For each category, estimate the number of businesses present in the area
exploration.
5. Calculate the quantity of waste available by category and then summon them to
get the total weight of commercial waste in the study area.
   
   
Notes:
Notes:
- Awareness of traders in the project is essential. The quality of
* The sensibilisation of the traders in the project area is essential. The quality of samples collected is dependant on it. It is particularly important to emphasize that only the commercial waste must be preserved. They do not need to add any other waste. Some people have a tendency to insert all waste they find in order to show that they are able to raise significant quantities of waste. These laudable intentions may distort the data.
samples collected depends on it. It is particularly important to emphasize that
* Be wary of waste from hospitals and pharmacies. These may have contained drugs or other substances, and thus need to be handled with care. It is best to check with doctors and pharmacists, and to establish with them a list of "recyclable" waste. Other waste will be
Only trade waste must be preserved. Do not add
not be collected.
other waste. Some people have a tendency to insert all
* If the area is not too large, a systematic count of businesses may be achieved by walking the streets. When the area is too large, this work becomes too complex. We prefer to select only a few areas (preferably on the map), and counting the businesses in these neighborhoods and extrapolate the data for the entire area.
wastes they are to show they are able to raise
significant quantities. These intentions, laudable, may distort
data.
- Make sure waste from hospitals and pharmacies. These were
contain drugs or other substances to be handled with care. The
It is best to check with many doctors and pharmacists, and
 
to establish with them a list of waste "recyclable". Other waste will be
not collected.
- If the area is not too large, a systematic count of businesses may
be achieved by traversing the streets. When the area is too large, this work becomes
too complex. We prefer to select a few areas (on map,
preference), make the counting of businesses in these neighborhoods and
extrapolated to the entire area.
Example of summary table:
Shops In the sensitized
Category Waste
Number
kg kg / com. Number
kg
Garages cans oil 3 6 0.5 22 44
Stations
Service
Oil cans 4 24 6 4 24
Hairdressers bottles (shampoo,
lacquers, stains, ...)
3 0.3 0.1 27 2.7
Bottles cafes, lockers,
tables, chairs, ...
5 2.5 0.5 46 23
Pharmacies Bottles 3 0.5 0.17 12 2
Hospitals Bottles 2 0.8 0.2 7 2.8
       
        Total 98.5
   
   
Example of a reminder table:
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:left"
|-
|Category ||Type of waste ||Sensibilised shops ||In the zone
|-
| || ||N° ||kg ||kg/com. ||N° ||kg
|-
|Garages ||Oil cans ||3 ||6 ||0.5 ||22 ||44
|-
|Service stations ||Oil cans || 4|| 24|| 6|| 4|| 24
|-
|Hairdressers ||bottles (shampoo,lacquers, dyes, ...)||3 ||0.3 ||0.1 ||27 ||2.7
|-
|Cafes ||bottles, racks, tables, chairs, ... ||5 ||2.5 ||0.5 ||46 ||23
|-
|Pharmacies ||bottles ||3 ||0.5 ||0.17 ||12 ||2
|-
|Hospitals ||bottles ||2 ||0.8 ||0.2 ||7 ||2.8
|-
| || || || || ||Total ||98.5
|-
|}
Table 3.2: Example of a summary evaluation campaign (15 days)
Table 3.2: Example of a summary evaluation campaign (15 days)
   
   
Example: Estimated number of shops in an area of Kinshasa (2003)
Example: Estimated number of shops in an area of Kinshasa (2003)
The study area comprises three communes of Kinshasa: Lemba, Ngaba
The study area comprises three communes of Kinshasa: Lemba, Ngaba and Makala. Living standards and activities of these three municipalities are very different, the area has been divided into three sub-areas corresponding to the three municipalities. Given the importance of sub-areas, only a few representative neighborhoods of the sub-areas were studied.
and Makala. Living standards and activities of these three municipalities are very
different, the area has been divided into three sub-areas corresponding to the three municipalities.
Given the importance of sub-areas, only a few neighborhoods representative sub-areas
were studied.
   
   
Figure 3.3: Division area into subareas and neighborhoods
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_7.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Division of the area into subareas and neighborhoods]]
   
   
After some traders aware, a campaign of selective collection
After having sensibilised some traders, a campaign of selective waste collection was undertaken over a period of 15 days. This has allowed to determine the amount of plastic waste produced by each category of businesses in each sub-area.  
was undertaken over a period of 15 days. It was determined the amount of
plastic waste produced by category of businesses in each sub-area.


The results are extrapolated to the entire sub-area using an equal factor regarding the surface cover per subarea and those of the studied neighbourhoods.:
<math>Q<sub>subarea</sub>=Q<sub>sensibilized</sub>_X_N<sub>neighbourhood</sub>_X_S<sub>subarea</sub>/S<sub>neighbourhood</sub></math>
with:
* Q<sub>subarea</sub> (kg): quantity of plastic waste produced in the sub-area;
* Q<sub>sensibilized</sub>(kg/com.): quantity of waste plastics per sensibilised businesses;
* N<sub>neighbourhood</sub>: number of enterprises in the studied neighbourhood(s);
* S<sub>subarea</sub>(m²): surface area of the sub-area (calculated from the map);
* S<sub>neighbourhood</sub>(m²): surface area of studied neighbourhoods (calculated from the map).


All results are noted down into a table:
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:left"
|-
|Category ||Sensibilised ||In the neighbourhood ||In the subarea
|-
| ||(kg/com.) ||N° ||Kg ||N° ||Kg
|-
|Area 1|| ||Neighbourhoods 1 and 2 (12%)|| || ||
|-
|Garages||1.0 ||4 ||4.0 ||33 ||33.0
|-
|Gas station-services||4.0 || || ||6 ||24.0 ||
|-
|Hairdressers ||0.1 ||4 ||0.4 ||33 ||3.3
|-
|Cafes ||1.2 ||6 ||7.2 ||50 ||60.0
|-
| || || || ||Total of area 1 ||120.3
|-
|Area 2 || ||Neighbourhood 1(13%)|| || ||
|-
|Garages ||0.5 ||3 ||1.5 ||23 ||11.5
|-
|Cafes ||1.0 ||7 ||7.0 ||54 ||54.0
|-
|Pharmacies ||0.4 ||4 ||1.6 ||31 ||12.4
|-
|Hospitals ||2.5 ||2 ||5.0 ||15 ||37.5
| || || || ||Total area 2 ||115.4
|-
|Area 3|| ||Neighbourhood 3 (15%)|| || ||
|-
|Hairdressers ||0.1 ||3 ||0.3 ||20 ||2.0
|-
|Cafes ||0.7 ||6 ||4.2 ||40 ||28.4
|-
|Pharmacies ||0.6 ||3 ||1.8 ||20 ||12.0
|-
|Hospitals || 3.0|| || ||9 ||2.7
|-
| || || || ||Total Zone 3 55.1
|-
| || || || ||Total in all zones ||280.8
|-
|}
Table 3.3: Evaluation of waste products in 3 commercial communes in Kinshasa
We take note that no service stations are installed in the two studied districts of Lemba (subarea 1). However, there are 6 in the municipality of where 2 were sensibilised (4kg/station). The results could of been directly placed in the last columns of the table. The same applies to hospitals in area 3. In total, the amount of commercial waste produced in the three municipalities has been estimated at 280.8 kilograms over a period of 15 days, or 561.6 kilograms per month.


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_8.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Campaign evaluation in service stations practicing vindageage (Kinshasa, 2003)]]
   
   
'''c. agricultural waste'''
When such sources of waste presents themselves, we will apply the same evaluation methodology as for commercial waste. We however choose a longer period (2 to 3 months) and a number of larger enterprises.
   
   
'''d. municipal waste'''
The results are extrapolated to the entire sub-area using a factor
Before evaluating the municipal waste deposit in a targeted area, we first need to know what is currently happening with this waste by asking the following questions:
the ratio of the area covered by the sub-region and that of (the) area (s)
* Is there a collection system set up? If so, what type (see Selective collection systems)? Is it structured? What is the frequency of collection? What type of transport ?
studied (s):
* Where is the collected waste brought to ? Are they sorted in a recovery center for composting or other? Are they dumped in a municipal landfill or is it illegally dumped ?
* Is there a lot of garbage on the highway ?
) (
) (
s neighborhood
area under
s district és sensibilis area under
S
S
N Q Q --
- × × =
with,
Qsous-zone (kg): quantity of plastic waste produced in the sub-area;
Qsensibilisés (kg / com.) Waste plastics businesses aware;
Nquartier (s): many in the trade (s) area (s) studied (s);
Ssous-area (sqm): area of the sub-area (calculated from map);
Squartiers (m²): area of (the) area (s) studied (s) (calculated from the
map).
 
All results are reported in a table:
In the sensitive area in the sub-area
Category
kg / com. Number
Kg Number
Kg
Area 1 Districts 1 and 2 (12%)
Garages 1.0 4 4.0 33 33.0
Gas Station
Services
4.0 - - 6 24.0
Hairdressers 0.1 4 0.4 33 3.3
Cafés 1.2 6 7.2 50 60.0
  Total area 1 120.3
Zone 2 Area 1 (13%)
Garages 0.5 3 1.5 23 11.5
Cafés 1.0 7 7.0 54 54.0
Pharmacies 0.4 4 1.6 31 12.4
Hospitals 2.5 2 5.0 15 37.5
  Total area 2 115.4
Zone 3 Area 1 (15%)
Hairdressers 0.1 3 0.3 20 2.0
Cafés 0.7 6 4.2 40 28.4
Pharmacies 0.6 3 1.8 20 12.0
Hospitals 3.0 - - 9 2.7
  Total Zone 3 55.1
       
  Total in zone 280.8
Table 3.3: Evaluation of waste products in commercial
3 communes of Kinshasa
We note that no service station is installed in the two districts studied
of Lemba (Subarea 1). However, there is six in the municipality of which two were
sensitized (4 kg / station). The results could be directly placed in the
last columns of the table. The same applies to hospitals in the area 3.
In total, the amount of commercial waste produced in the three municipalities has been
estimated at 280.8 kilograms over a period of 15 days, or 561.6 kilograms per month.
Photo 3.5: Evaluation Campaign in
service station practicing vindageage
(Kinshasa, 2003)
c. agricultural waste
When such sources of waste occurs, we will apply the same
evaluation methodology for commercial waste. We choose
However, a period of time longer (2 to 3 months) and a number
largest holdings.
d. municipal waste
Before evaluating the deposit of municipal waste in an area targeted is
need to know what is happening currently in the waste arising
the following questions:
- Is there an organized collection system? If yes, what type (see System
curbside p.46)? Is it structured? What is the frequency of harvest? What
type of transport?
- Where the waste collected are they filed? They are sorted in a central
Recovery for composting or other? Are they dumped in a landfill
municipal or is it illegal dumping?
- Are there a lot of garbage on the highway?
After finding answers to these questions, it may be useful
schematically the transfer of the waste stream on paper to design a
strategy for estimating the amount of plastic waste available. There
not a universal strategy, every situation is different. However, some
guidelines can be followed:
1. To the extent that their activity is sufficiently structured, it is always
preferable to work with people already active in collecting
garbage. In fact, they perform a collection in the head (collection
input) with which they generally maintain a relationship of trust.
After explaining the project in detail, it is possible to conduct a
evaluation campaign with some of these collectors. This campaign
run for a fortnight and will ask them to separate
waste plastic garbage they collect. After the campaign, these
Plastics will be weighed and the data will be entered in a table similar to
the commercial waste. Extrapolating to the entire area will
After estimating areas covered by collectors.


After finding answers to these questions, it may be useful to sketch the transfer of the waste stream on paper to design a strategy for estimating the amount of available plastic waste. There
is no universal strategy, every situation is different. However, some guidelines can be followed:
2. Where there is no system to collect enough structured, it is possible
# To the extent that their activity is structured, it is always preferable to work with people already active in collecting garbage. In fact, they perform a collection directly from the consumer (upstream collection) with whom they generally maintain a relationship of confidence. After explaining the project in detail, it is possible to conduct a campaign evaluation with some of these collectors. This campaign will run for a fortnight and will consist of asking them to separate the plastic waste from the garbage they collect. After the campaign, the plastics will be weighed and the data will be entered in a table similar to that of the commercial waste. Extrapolating this to the entire area is done using an estimation of the areas covered by the collectors.
achieve an awareness campaign among the locals. To do this, simply
# Where there is no sufficiently structured collection system, it is possible to realise a sensibilisation campaign among the locals. To do this, simply select a few neighborhoods in the area and proceed in the same way as for commercial waste, motivating people to separate plastics and other wastes.
select few neighborhoods in the area and proceed the same way
# The evaluation of waste lying in the streets is very difficult or impossible their waste flows are so irregular and heterogeneous.
for commercial waste, motivating people to separate
# Direct evaluation in the landfill is always inadvisable because the waste released there are often very fouled and the hygienic condition for working here is precarious. However, when there is no alternative, this evaluation is relatively simple. It consists of determining the percentage of plastics contained in the garbage and assessing the amount of waste that is sent daily to the landfill. The product of these two results gives the amount of plastics available
plastics and other wastes.
3. Direct assessment in the landfill is always inadvisable because the waste
are released are often very dirty and sanitation work
are precarious. However, when there is no alternative, this score is
relatively simple. It is to determine the percentage of plastics
contained in the garbage and assess the amount of waste daily
sent to landfill.
The product of these two results gives the amount of plastics available
every day:
every day:
<math>Q<sub>discharge</sub>=%<sub>plast.</sub>_X_M<sub>discharge</sub></math>
with
* Q<sub>discharge</sub> (kg/day): quantity of daily available plastic waste
* %<sub>plast.</sub>: percentage by weight of the plastics contained in the garbage
* M<sub>discharge</sub> (kg/day): daily quantity of garbage sent to through the discharge
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_9.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Estimation of a plastic waste deposit found in a dump (Arequipa, 2003)]]
   
   
Sampling will be performed to characterize the identified plastic.
===Characteristics of collected waste===
Once samples are collected and gathered, we must determine what their main characteristics are to determine the proportion of recoverable material in these wastes. This characterization is done for each category of collected waste.
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_10.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Determination of the degree of fouling of vials gathered in the streets of Kinshasa (2003)]]
To do so, various data can be found on collected batches, namely:
# The degree of fouling: this is the proportion of matter other than the recyclable plastic that the waste contains: labels, metal components, plastics of a different nature than the object, ... It is found by removing these unwanted bodies, weighing them and calculating their proportion by weight (see chapter 2).
# The degree of soil: this is determined by weighing the samples before and after the washing (see chapter 2). Knowledge on the levels of fouling and soil of a batch of plastic allows the calculating of the amount of potentially recoverable plastics. For plastic bottles for which the degree of fouling is equal to 5% and the degree of soil is 10%, we know that for a kilo collected only 855 g. can potentially be recovered (0.95 x 0.90 x 1000g.)
# The types of plastics: these are determined by the recognition criteria described in chapter 2. Thus, for each collected sample, we determine the percentage of each major category of plastics (PP, HDPE, LDPE, PS, PVC) and the proportion of other plastics for which recovery will probably not be considered.
Besides these three types of important data, other characteristics may be determined. This is the case with the percentage of matter which can not go through a grinder and therefore requires a preliminary cut up. In the case where there is already a grinder, it is obtained by weighing the parts that are larger than the mouth of the grinder and dividing the obtained weight by the total weight of the sample. Otherwise, we will consider the waste that can not go through a rectangular hole (cut from a sheet of cardboard, for example) of 150 x 150 mm, corresponding to a typical opening of a grinder with a capacity of 150 kg/h as ungrindable.
   
   
[] Th e déch déch M Plast Q arg arg. × =
<math>Plast.<sub>to be cut up</sub>(%)=Plast.<sub>ungrindable</sub>(kg)/Sample(kg)_X_100</math>
with,
Qdécharge (kg / day): The amount of plastic waste daily available
[Plast .](%): percentage by weight of plastics contained in the
Garbage
Mdécharge (kg / day): daily amount of garbage sent to the
discharge
Photo 3 .6: Estimation of a deposit of waste plastics
in a dump (Arequipa, 2003)
Sampling will be performed to characterize the plastic
identified.
4. The evaluation of waste lying in the streets is very difficult or impossible
their flows are so irregular and heterogeneous.
Characterization of samples collected
Once samples are collected and compiled, it remains to determine their
main characteristics to determine the proportion of recoverable material
in these wastes. This characterization is done for each category
waste collected.


Vials and bottles are generally regarded as belonging to this category. Indeed, their rounded shape makes sure they are not driven by the grinder knives. They therefore require a preliminary division.
Another interesting fact is the drying time (in the sun, for example) of washed plastic matter. It allows to evaluate the drying area to be foreseen and, if it shows that solar drying is not possible, allows to explore other drying techniques (see chapter 4).
All these characteristics need not be determined for the entire collected batch. Smaller samples, but as representative as possible, may do the trick. Finally, all results will be placed in an overall table that will highlight the intresting deposits of plastics, to dimension the approach of recycling to be put in place (machines, human resources, consumables, ...) and to budget the project (see chapter 6).
This approach seems long and tedious. It is however necessary if one wants to adopt a work strategy to implement into his recycling project, notably regarding the balance of material flows and economic prospects.
Furthermore, characterization is not only useful for the evaluation phase, but also duting the production to reevaluate the operation of a certain deposit!
   
   
For more information on evaluating waste deposits:
To do so, various data can be determined on batches collected at
For people who dispose of only a minimum in equipment and knowledge regarding computing, the Modecom<sup>TM</sup> software is a useful tool to facilitate the management of the collected data of the campaign, but also during the period of production. This program, developed by ADEME (Agence de l'Environnement et de la Maitrise de l'Energie, France) for the management of domestic waste can be adapated to the projects described in this manual. It can manage the basic data and derive key information.
namely:
For more information, consult the website of the ADEME (www.ademe.fr) at the section "publications". We find here the conditions of sale (price: 30,49 €) and a downloadable order form to send to the following address:
1. The degree of contamination: a reminder, this is the proportion of subjects
other than the plastic that contains recoverable waste labels,
metal components, plastics of a different nature than the object .... It
is determined by removing these unwanted body in the heavy and then calculating
their proportion by weight (see Chapter 2).
2. The degree of soiling: it is determined by weighing samples before and after
washing (see Chapter 2).
Photo 3.7: Determination of the degree of contamination of vials
gathered in the streets of Kinshasa (2003)
The knowledge levels of contamination and contamination of a batch of plastic
calculates the amount of potentially recoverable plastics.
As for plastic bottles for which the degree of contamination is
equal to 5% and the degree of stain is 10%, we know that for a kilo collected
only 855 g. can potentially be recovered (0.95 x 0.90 x 1000 g.)
3. The types of plastics: they are determined by criteria
recognition described in Chapter 2. Thus, for each sample collected, we
determine the percentage of each major category of plastics (PP, HDPE,
LDPE, PS, PVC) and the proportion of other plastics for which
recovery will probably not be considered.
Besides these three important data, other characteristics may be
determined. These where the percentage of subjects not through a shredder
and therefore requiring a preliminary division. Where there has already
mill, it is obtained by weighing the parts that were larger than those
the opening of the mill and dividing the weight obtained by the total weight of
sample. Otherwise, we will consider as imbroyables, waste
not through a rectangular hole (cut from a sheet of cardboard, by
example) 150 x 150 mm, which corresponds to a typical opening of a mill
capacity of 150 kg / h.
100
]. [
] [
    [%] Plast. cut to × =
Ech kg
kg Plastimb
The vials and bottles are generally regarded as belonging to this
category. Indeed, their rounded shape makes sure they are not driven by
knife grinders. They therefore require a preliminary division.
Another interesting fact is the drying time (sun, for example)
plastics washed. It allows to evaluate the drying area to be restored and, if
proves that solar drying is not possible to explore other techniques
drying (see Chapter 4).
All these characteristics need not be determined for
the entire batch collected. Smaller samples, but the most representative
as possible, may do the trick. Finally, all results will be placed in a
overall picture that will highlight the fields of plastics
interesting dimension of the recycling industry to implement (hardware,
human resources, consumables, ...) and to budget the project (see Chapter 6).
This approach seems long and tedious. It is however necessary if one wants
adopt a strategy of working to implement its recycling project,
particularly as regards the balance of material flows and prospects
economic.
Furthermore, characterization is not only useful for the evaluation phase, but
also being produced to reassess the operation of one or the other
deposit!
For more information on evaluating sources of waste:
For people who have a minimum of equipment and knowledge
computer software MODECOMTM is a useful tool to facilitate management
Data collected at the companion, but also during
production. This program, developed by ADEME (Agency for Environment and
the Energy Control, France) for the management of household waste can be
suited to such projects as described in this manual. It can manage the basic
data and derive key information.
For more information, consult the website of the ADEME (www.ademe.fr) to
"publications".
There are conditions of sale (price: 30,49 €) and an order form
downloadable refer to the following address:
ADEME
ADEME
2 square La Fayette
2, square La Fayette
BP 406 - 49004 Angers cedex 01
BP 406 - 49004 Angers cedex 01
France
France
Phone: 00 33 (0) 2 41 20 41 20
Tel: 00 33 (0) 2 41 20 41 20
Fax: 00 33 (0) 2 41 20 41 97
Fax: 00 33 (0) 2 41 20 41 97


3. Collection systems
==Collection systems==
===Sensibilisation===
Experience has shown that the recycling of plastic waste is an activity that can be profitable. This profitability is often compromised when the recycling center must take charge of the own sensibilisation of people regarding the problematic of waste. Sensibilisation requires substantial resources that must not be neglected. Generally, it is advised to separate the two activities and to be imaginative about how to sensibilisation is done: financing research parallel to those funding the project, involvement of local authorities or associations sensitive to the environment, use of communications media (media), ...
   
   
Awareness
'''a. Sensibilisation of collection agents'''
Experience shows that recycling of plastic waste is an activity that can be
The sensibilisation of collection agents is essential. They are in fact directly in contact with waste producers and thereby contribute to their sensibilisation. Moreover, they are the ones who handle the waste. They can then judge the quality of the sorting. These agents may be part of the recycling center, work for their own account or belong to an existing collection network. Their sensibilisation can be done through training sessions. They will notably learn:
profitable. This profitability is often compromised when the recycling center
* Sensibilisation of their role in industry development;
must take charge of his own awareness of people issues
* The extent of the damage plastic waste can do to the environment, but also the benefit that be provided for it;
waste. Awareness requires substantial resources that must
* To differentiate the recyclable plastics amongst each other and evaluate their quality (fouling, soil, ...);
neglected. Generally, it is advisable to separate the two activities and
* To sensibilise the population of the problem of plastic waste.
to be imaginative about how to achieve awareness: Search
parallel to those funding the project, involvement of local authorities or
associations sensitive to the environment, use of communications media
(media) ...
   
   
a. Staff awareness raising
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_11.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Training of collection agents (Yaounde)]]
The sensitization of collection is paramount. They are in fact directly
in contact with waste producers and thereby contribute to their
awareness. Moreover, they are the ones who handle the waste. They can then judge
quality sorting. These agents may be part of the recycling center, work
for their own account or belong to an existing collection network. Their
awareness can be done through training sessions. They will learn
including:
- Awareness of their role in industry development;
- The extent of damage engendered by plastic waste
environment, but also the benefit that can be drawn;
- To differentiate from other recyclable plastics and evaluate their quality (pollution,
contamination, ...);
- To raise awareness of the population turn to the problem of plastic waste.
   
   
Do not hesitate to explain in detail the central activity, and the problems encountered throughout the recycling process, especially when the quality of the waste is also put into consideration. It is also important to perform debates to know everyone's problems and find solutions adressing everyone's interests.
 
Photo 3.8: Training of collection (Yaounde)
'''b. Sensibilisation of waste producers'''
Education and sensibilisation of the inhabitants or waste producers to separate the plastics from other waste is not done overnight. Indeed, the audience often has other concerns as sorting their daily waste. It is nevertheless important that sorting is done; the supply of plastic
Do not hesitate to explain in detail the activity center, and problems
recycling centers depend on it. Women and children are most susceptible to environmental problems. Women are the primary concerned ones because it are them who often dominate the daily household tasks, and therefore the cleanliness and waste. Children are more engaged in separate collection from a personal motivation (see Table 3.5), which will bring them an intresting little income. Furthermore, the sensibilisation from an early age has long-term effects.
encountered throughout the recycling process, especially when the quality of
waste is put into question. It is also important to engage in debates
know everyone's problems and find solutions respecting all
interests.


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_12.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Sensibilisation at a women's committee meeting(Yaounde)]]
   
   
 
Communication channels for a good sensibilisation are numerous. The main thing is not to lack imagination.
b. Awareness of waste producers
Education and awareness of people or producers of waste
separate plastics from other waste is not done overnight. Indeed,
the audience often has other concerns as sorting their daily waste. It
is nevertheless important that sorting is done, the supply of plastic
recycling center depends.
Women and children are most susceptible to problems
environmental. Women are the first affected because they are often
They dominate the daily household tasks, and therefore the cleanliness and
waste. Children are more involved in the collection at intake motivated
(see Table 3.5) which will bring them little interest income. Furthermore, the
awareness from an early age has long-term effects.
Photo 3.9: Awareness at a committee meeting
women (Yaounde)
Communication channels for a good education are numerous. All
is not lack imagination.
As examples, here are some ideas:
As examples, here are some ideas:
- Articles in local newspapers, posters in the streets;
* Articles in local newspapers, posters in the streets;
- Radio and television spots;
* Radio and television commercials;
- Meeting in associations sensitive to the environment (including
* Meetings in associations sensitive to the environment (including women's associations);
women's associations);
* Fun activities in schools (drawing contests, games on the theme of waste ...);
- Fun activities in schools (drawing contests, games on the theme of
* Message at religious events, sporting, cultural, ...
waste ...);
* Organized visit to the recycling center for stressing the importance of sorting at the source, ie by the people.
- Post at religious events, sporting, cultural, ...
During these campaigns, we seek to empower collection agents that stress the importance of their activity for the safety of their neighborhoods.
- Organized visit the recycling center in stressing the importance of sorting at
Sensibilisation is an activity to be renewed perpetually. Good habits get lost quickly. It is always necessary to find new ideas.
source, ie among people.
During these campaigns, we seek to empower officers collection
stressing the importance of their activity for the safety of neighborhoods.
Awareness is an activity to renew perpetually. Good habits
get lost quickly. It is necessary to always find new ideas.


===Selective collection systems===
Collection systems
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_13.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Selective collection inserted into a system from "door to door" (Kinshasa, 2003)]]
The collection system means "how wastes move from living
 
or producer of waste, collection service "1. In the case of collection
Collection systems are "the way how waste moves from the inhabitant or producer of waste to the collection service"<ref>H. C. Haan, A. Coad, I. Lardinois, 1999; Management of Municipal Solid Waste: Hire micro and small enterprises, guidelines for municipal officials; Intermediate
waste plastics, we speak of collection, ie which aims
Technology Publications, London.</ref>. In the case of the collection of plastic wastes, we speak of separate collection, ie which aims to collect only certain types of waste. The selective collection can be fit into an existing collection system or, conversely, be organized in parallel to it.
not collect certain types of waste. The collection can fit
Before running through the different collection systems that can be implemented, it is important to make some recommendations:
in an existing collection system or, conversely, organized in parallel.
* No ideal collection system exists. Each case needs to be studied to respond to the local context and project objectives. The best collection systems are those that are customised and not those who were simply copied.
Before you browse the different collection systems that can
* Equip adapted means. In the collection, it is indeed tempting to use so-called "modern" means but these often do not meet the conditions of countries with low and medium incomes. Also, the purchase of expensive vehicles, but immobilized ones because they are not appropriate to road conditions or because the price of maintenance is too high do not make smart investments. Instead, it is often preferable to use methods which use a greater human capital and base technologies better adapted to the conditions.
implement, it is important to make some recommendations:
* For reasons of workhygiene, it is better to focus on maximizing the "Upstream collection", that is to say, at the inhabitant rather than recovery in streets and landfills. Wastes have indeed less soil, and are therefore less fouled. Moreover, washing and sorting will be facilitated.
- There is no ideal collection system. Each case needs to be studied to
respond to local context and project objectives. The best systems
collection are those that are custom and not those who were simply
copied.
- To provide appropriate resources. In the collection, it is indeed tempting to
build capacity so-called "modern" but often do not meet
conditions in countries with low and medium incomes. Thus, the purchase of expensive vehicles,
but immobilized because they are not appropriate to road conditions or
for reasons of price too high maintenance is not a
smart investment. Instead, it is often preferable to use
methods using human capital more important and basic technologies
better adapted to the context.
- For reasons of hygiene of work, it is better to focus on maximizing the
"Gathering input, that is to say, at the head rather than the recovery in
streets and landfills. Wastes are indeed less contaminated, and therefore less
contaminated. Moreover, washing and sorting will be facilitated.
a. curbside inserted into an existing network
Table 3.4 shows the system of waste collection the most experienced (HC
Haan, 1999). For each system, some suggestions are proposed to insert
a collection of plastic waste.
                                                 
1 H. C. Haan, A. Coad, I. Lardinois, 1999; Management of Municipal Solid Waste: Hire
micro and small enterprises, guidelines for municipal officials; Intermediate
Technology Publications, London.


'''a. Selective collection inserted into an existing collection network'''
Table 3.4 shows the most common waste collection systems (H.C. Haan, 1999). For each system, some suggestions are proposed to insert a selective plastic waste collection.
Photo 3.10: Selective collection inserted into a system
from "door to door" (Kinshasa, 2003)


Selective Collection System Description Advantages Disadvantages
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:left"
Common People or waste producers can bring their waste when they
|-
wish.
|System ||Description || Selective collection || Advantages ||Disadvantages
Deposits of
|-
places
|Shared ||People or waste producers can bring their waste when they so wish.
specified
|-
Residents and other
|Deposits on specified places ||Inhabitants and other waste producers deposit their waste at a specific location or a masonry enclosure where they are transported. ||Possibility to limit a part of the enclosure reserved for waste plastics. ||Little investments ||Difficult loading. The sorting is little controlled. The plastics are often mixed with other waste, thus soiled. Theft of waste plastics.
waste producers
|-
deposit their waste
|Shared container ||Residents and other waste producers bring their waste to the container which is frequently moved or emptied. ||A container can be reserved to only hold plastic waste. ||Possibility to use closed containers that limits thefts. ||The sorting is little controlled. The plastics are often mixed with other waste. Fairly expensive.
a specific location or
|-
an enclosure of masonry
|Individual ||Inhabitants and farmers keep their waste at home until the collection
where they are transported.
|-
Possibility to define a
||Block collection ||The garbage collector waits at the specified places where the inhabitants bring their waste to the collection cars. ||The garbage collector can recover the plastics separately and encourage residents to separate their waste. For this, the vehicles must be equipped with a compartment for plastics. ||Inexpensive. Good sorting control. Possibility of sensibilisation and payment. ||Requires a member of the family to be on-site and thus moves itself.
part of the enclosure reserved
|-
waste plastics.
|Sidewalk collection|| The waste is deposited in front of the houses and placed in a vehicle or investigated and collected by a garbage collector. || Residents can deposit the plastic waste separatly. These are separately collected. ||Convenient for the inhabitants. ||Storage of the waste in the street, where it fouls and mixes.
Cheap
|-
investment.
|Door-to-door collection|| The garbage collector goes to the inhabitants and waits until they bring him the waste. ||The inhabitants can deliver their plastic waste separately. The garbage collector will deposit the plastic waste in a container of his vehicle intented for the plastics.|| Possibility of sensibilisation and payment. No waste is stored in the street.|| Requires the presence of an inhabitant. Little suitable for large buildings.
Loading
|-
difficult. Sorting is
|Collection in the dooryard or garden|| The garbage collector enters the property to remove the waste. ||Residents can deposit plastic waste separatly. These are collected separately.|| Convenient for inhabitants. No waste stored in the street. ||Requires some trust between the garbage collector and the inhabitants.
little control. The
|-
Plastics are
|}
often mixed
Table 3.4: Insertion possibilities of a selective collection into existing collection systems
other
waste, thus
soiled. Flights
waste
plastics.
Container
shared
Residents and other
waste producers
bring their waste to
container frequently
removed or emptied.
A container can be
intended only to waste
plastics.
Opportunities
design
containers closed
that limit
flights.
The sorting is not
controlled. The
Plastics are
often mixed
other
waste. Quite
expensive.
Individual residents and farmers keep their waste at home until the collection
Collected by
block
The garbage collector looks for
the places specified
people who bring
waste to vehicles
collection.
The garbage collector can recover
plastics separately
and encourage residents
separating their waste. The
Vehicles must for this
be equipped with a
compartment to
plastics.
Inexpensive. Good
control of sorting.
Possible
awareness and
compensation.
Requires a
member
family is
and this
moves.
Collection at
board
sidewalk
The waste is deposited
front of houses and paid
in a vehicle or
scanned and collected by a
dustman.
Residents can
deposit waste
plastic part. These
will be collected
separately.
Convenient for
residents.
Storage
waste in the
Street, which stains
and mixtures.
Collection
door to door
The garbage collectors went to the
people and expects
they bring with them the
waste.
Residents can
deliver their waste
plastics separately.
  The garbage collector will deposit the
in a drawer of his
vehicle available to
plastics.
Possible
awareness and
compensation.
No waste
in the street.
Requires
presence of a
capita. Few
suitable for
large
buildings.
Collection in
the court or
garden
   
   
The garbage collector enters the
The "block" and "door-to-door" collection gives the best results because they bring together inhabitants and the collection agent. This may allow sensibilisation to improve the quality of the supplied plastic waste.
property to remove
It is not always possible to change people's habits by sensibilisation to separate the plastic waste from the other waste. Nevertheless, the collection agent can always sort the waste he picks up daily himself, and this irrespective of the collection system in place. The plastics thus recovered provide him an additional financial return.
waste.
Residents can
deposit waste
plastic part. These
will be collected
separately.
Convenient for
residents. Not
waste in
Street.
Requires
some
trust between
dustman and
population.
Table 3.4: Possibilities for inclusion of a collection within collection systems


existing
'''Example of a selective collection in Cairo (Egypt)'''
The case of the scavengers in lower Mokattam is one of the most famous in the collection. This neighbourhood of Cairo lives mainly on the collection and recycling of waste. Every day, the trash pickers go into the richer neighborhoods off the central city to collect the garbage (door-to-door, dooryard or garden collection). They divided themselves into neighborhoods buying a collection right and take the waste from their home to dispose of them. The sorting is usually a family affair. The waste is separated by the type of material (organics, wood, cardboard, paper, metals, plastics, ...) but also according to their destination. Also, the plastic waste is divided by color, objects (cans, jars, shoes, ...) and so on. Regarding these different kinds of plastics, there is a terminology that has been created. They speak not of PP, PE, PVC, ... but of hard plastics, soft, tender, ...
All obtained objects are sold to recycling workshops or neighborhood intermediaries who undertake the task of recycling them. It is not uncommon for parts of this waste to be directly sold to official factories. Thus, the route from the informal sector to the formal sector is quite common.
   
   
The collection "block" and "door to door" gives the best results because they
'''b. selective collection established in parallel'''
bring together residents and the collection agent. This may make
Some neighborhoods do not always dispose of domestic waste collection approaches or, if they exist, they may not be well enough structured so as to be able to introduce a separate collection of waste plastics. In these conditions, it is necessary to establish a separated collection system for plastic waste. The different options are described in Table 3.5.
awareness to improve the quality of waste plastics made.
It is not always possible to change people's habits and awareness
separate plastic waste from other waste may be inconclusive.
Nevertheless, the collection agent can always make himself sorting waste
 
   
   
he picks up daily, and this irrespective of the existing collection system.
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:left"
Plastics and recovered him make an additional financial return.
|-
|System ||Description|| Advantages|| Disadvantages
|-
|Door-to-door collection|| Collection agents regularly visit the inhabitants or waste producers who wish to get rid of their plastic waste. These collection agents may either be employed by the recycling center or be paid by it according to weight. In some countries, the collection agents pay the inhabitants for the received plastics per kilogram. ||Possibility to sensibilise the inhabitants and the waste producers. The collected plastic waste is often of good quality.|| Slow job requiring a large number of agents. Requires the presence of inhabitants when the collection agents pass by.
|-
|Voluntary contributions|| Closed containers are placed at strategic locations in the area targeted by the project: major intersections, near markets, ... The inhabitants or waste producers come to dispose of their used plastics. Containers are regularly removed or emptied.|| Cheap system.|| No control over the quality. Much other wastes are generally found in these containers (thus fouled). Difficult to implement sensibilisation.
|-
|Contribution motivated by payment by weight ||Collection agents regularly visit strategic locations called "collection points". They pay the people or waste producers according to the weight of the given plastics. Often, young people perform their own collection from door-to-door and bring the received plastics to the collection points. ||Control of the quality of the received plastics. The waste can be paid according to their type if they are already pre-sorted according to the type. A good sensibilisation is then required. ||This system can be costly if the collection agents are not adequately trained tn the recognition and the prices of the plastic waste.
|-
|Sorting center|| These centers typically sort municipal waste into compost. An arrangement is made with the leaders of the sorting center to ensure that they also sort the plastic waste. The collection agents regularly visit the center to collect the plastics and may also pay by weight.||The waste is already gathered in a place. Sorting centers are often interested in getting rid of this non-recycled waste. ||The plastic waste is often very soiled and fouled by other wastes (metals, paper, cartons, ...)
|-
|Dumpsite sorting (photo 3.12)|| The sorting is done when no selective collection system has been established. Sorting is then performed by people who earn their living bringing the plastic waste to the recycling center (or collection points). They are paid according to the weight of the plastics.|| The waste is assembled in a place.|| Precarious (unhealthy) working conditions. This system is to be avoided at all costs.
|-
|}
Table 3.5: Possibilities for inserting a collection system in parallel to existing collection systems
   
   
Sample collection in Cairo (Egypt)
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_14.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Dumpsite sorting (Arequipa, 2003)]]
The case of scavengers Lower Mokattam is one of the most famous in
the collection. This district of Cairo lives mainly on the recovery and
waste recovery. Every day, the trash pickers go into neighborhoods
off central city to collect garbage (collection door to door
in the yard or garden). They are divided neighborhoods buying a right to
harvest and take responsibility for reducing waste in their home to sort. Sorting
is usually a family affair. The waste is separated by type of material
(organics, wood, cardboard, paper, metals, plastics, ...) but also
according to their destination. Thus, waste plastics are divided by color,
objects (cans, jars, shoes, ...) and so. Regarding these different
kinds of plastics, there is a terminology that has been created. Thus, no
speak not of PP, PE, PVC, ... but hard plastics, soft, soft ...
All fractions obtained are sold to recycling workshops or neighborhood
intermediaries who undertake to exploit them. It is not uncommon for a party
this waste is directly sold to factories more formal. Thus, passages
informal sector to formal sector are quite common.
   
   
b. collection established in parallel
When a voluntary contribution collection system is proposed, it is sometimes necessary to use closed containers so as to avoid any risk of theft of the plastic waste. The figure below illustrates a proposed solution for Kinshasa. This is an oil drum above which two steel pipes are welded at an angle. An opening system with a padlock allows collection agents to recover the plastic waste during their daily rounds. The cost of manufacturing this type of dumpster is 75€ (Kinshasa, 2003).
Some neighborhoods do not always have chains refuse collection
household or, if they exist, they may not be enough
structured as to introduce a separate collection of waste plastics. In
Accordingly, it is necessary to establish a system of proper waste collection
plastics. The options are described in Table 3.5.
   
   
System Description Advantages Disadvantages
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_15.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Selective closed dumpster made from a barrel (Kinshasa)]]
Collection
door to door
Collection agents regularly visit
among residents or waste producers
to get rid of their plastic waste.
These agents may either be employed by the
recycling center or be paid to the weight
by it. In some countries, workers
collecting reward people for kilograms of
Plastics received.
Possible
sensitize
residents and
Producers
waste. Waste
plastics collected
are often
good quality.
Slow work
requiring a large
number of agents.
Requires
presence
residents at the
passing agents.
Contributions
volunteers
Containers (closed) are willing to
strategic locations in the area targeted by the
Project: major intersections, near markets,
... The people or waste producers
Plastic lay their plastic
used. Containers are routinely removed
or emptied.
Good system
market.
No control over
quality. Much
other wastes
found in general
in these containers
(ie dirt).
Awareness difficult
to implement.
Contributions
motivated
compensation to
weight
Collection agents regularly visit
strategic locations called "points
collection. They reward the people or
waste producers to the weight of plastics
made. Often, young people perform their
same collection door to door and bring
plastics obtained at collection points.
Control
waste quality
made. The
waste can be
paid according to their
type if they are already
pre-sorted according to variety.
Good
Awareness is then
required.
This system can
be costly if
agents are
not adequately trained
recognition
and prices
plastic waste.
Table 3.5: Possibilities for inclusion of a collection in parallel collection systems


existing
Example of payment motivated collection in Yaounde (Cameroon)
In Yaoundé, specifically in the area of Etoug-Ebe, the NGO CIPRE (Centre International de Promotion de la REcuperation) has established a selective payment motivated collection system where the payment is done according to weight. Every fortnight, a dozen collection agents serve the 50 collection points located in this neighbourhood of about 100,000 inhabitants. Their role is to collect the plastic waste, pre-sorted, weigh, and package them and pay the inhabitants who bring them.


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_16.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Collection agent calculating the fee to pay the child (Yaounde)]]
   
   
This system allows to collect ten tonnes of waste plastics per months, or one tonne per collection agent. In addition, it offers the advantage of a certain flexibility. Indeed, by adapting its compensation schedule, the IPRC can recover the plastics it wishes. So, the PE bottles are paid 25 CFA/kg (0.04 €/kg) while a kilo of PVC soles can reach 100 CFA (0,16 €). This system is not exploited to its full potential as an objective of CIPRE is to reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment.
   
   
System Description Advantages Disadvantages
Example of a mixed system in Bangalore (India)<ref>Esha Shah Rajaram, 1997; Plastic Recycling in Bangalore - India, case study report plastic recycling, Waste Publications, Gouda, the Netherlands.</ref>
Sorting center These centers typically waste sort
India is one of the most active countries in the recycling of plastic waste. In the city of Bangalore, a dual collection system exists. First, 3000-4000 collection agents perform a door-to-door collection and buy plastic waste from the inhabitants. These buyers collect on average 10 kg of plastics per day for 25 days a month. This source collection can obtain waste quality plastics with little fouling, with an intresting market value.
household into compost. A
On the other hand, 25,000 people sort on the various dumpsites of the city. They extract 15% of the recoverable material of which 4% of plastic waste. On average, each sorter recovers 8 kg of plastic a day and works 20 days a month. The most fouled waste is resold at lower prices than those collected at the source.
arrangement is reached with the leaders
sorting to sort that also
plastic waste. Travel agents
regularly to the center to collect the
Plastic reward any weight.
The waste is already
assembled into a
place. Centers
sort are often
interested to
rid of these
Waste not
recovery.
Waste
Art is
often very dirty and
contaminated
other wastes
(metals, paper,
cartons, ...)
Sort by
discharge
(photo 3.12)
The sorting is done when no collection system
Selective has been established. Sorting is then
performed by people who earn their living
bringing waste plastic in the center of
recycling (or collection points). They are
paid to the weight of plastics.
The waste is
assembled into a
place.
Working conditions
precarious
(unhealthy). This
system is to avoid
maximum.
Table 3.5 (continued): Possible inclusion of a collection in parallel systems


existing collection
''''c. Frequency, transmission and transfer'''
Besides the type of collection system in place, it is important to consider three parameters which are the frequency of collection, transport and transfer.
1. The collection frequency of plastic waste is assessed during the implementation of the collection system but must be regularly updated. It is charecterized by various factors such as:
* The quantity of accumulated waste with the inhabitants or in the reunification points. A too infrequent collection causes accumulations of waste and therefore significant nuisance: odor, visual pollution, risk of being eaten by livestock, ... this may discourage the sorting and all efforts in sensibilisation will be destroyed.
* The quality of plastics, which is directly related to the storage time of the waste sorted by the inhabitant, in the streets or in the landfills.
Photo 3.11: Sort on discharge (Arequipa, in 2003)
* Habits of the local community. In some communities, waste is collected every day. A less regular collection of sorted plastics can cause a blockage and become irreversable.
The frequency of collection is thus an excellent indicator of the quality of the collection service. It is necessary to make every effort into make it as high as possible.
When a collection system is proposed voluntary contribution, it is sometimes necessary
design of closed containers to avoid any risk of theft of plastic
deposited. The figure below illustrates a solution to Kinshasa. This is a drum
Oil above which are two angles welded steel tubes.
An opening system allows agents locked collection to recover
plastic waste during their daily rounds.
Figure 3.4: Trash selectively closed
made from a barrel
(Kinshasa)
The cost of manufacturing this type of garbage is 75 € (Kinshasa, 2003).


2. We can not repeat it enough: "Transporting is expensive! And transporting plastic is even more expensive given their low densities (between 0.9 and 1.4, but the density in bulk rarely exceeds 400 kg/m³). It is therefore needed to be very wary about this aspect of the project. To do this, some advices may be followed:
* Shorten up the routes as much as possible, including placing the recycling center as central as possible in the area but also by organizing the pick-up smartly.
* Use of cheap transport, adapted to the local environment
* Atleast condition the waste to densify the content of the collection vehicles. For this, it is sometimes advisable to already perform an initial cut up before placing it in the vehicle.
   
   
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_17.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Dumping of municipal waste in Arequipa]]
Sample collection reasoned contribution to Yaounde (Cameroon)
In Yaoundé, specifically in the area of Etoug-Ebe, NGO CIPRE (Center
International promotion of recovery) has established a system
collection by providing motivated by a reward in weight. Every fortnight,
a dozen agents serving the fifty collection points located in
this district of about 100,000. Their role is to receive waste
plastics, pre-sorted, weighed, packaged them and reward
people who bring them.
Photo 3.12: Agent of calculating the fees collected to
pay child (Yaounde)
This system captures ten tonnes of waste plastics
months, or one tonne of collection agent. In addition, it offers the advantage of a certain
flexibility. Indeed, by adapting its compensation schedule, the IPRC can recover
Plastic he wants. Thus, the PE bottles are paid 25 CFA / kg (0.04 € / kg)
while a kilo of PVC soles can reach 100 CFA (0,16 €). This system
is not exploited to its full potential as a vocation CIPRE
is to reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment.
Example of a mixed Bangalore2 (India)
India is one of the most active in the recycling of plastic waste. In
Bangalore city, a dual collection system exists. First, 3000-4000
Agents perform a collection door to door and buy plastic waste
among residents. These buyers collect traveling on average 10 kg
plastics per day for 25 days a month. The source collection can
obtain waste plastics quality, little soiled, with a value
Merchant interesting.
On the other hand, 25,000 people make the sorting of the various shocks
city. They extract 15% of recoverable material which 4% of plastic waste. In
average, each grader recovers 8 kg of plastic a day and works 20 days a
months. The most contaminated waste are resold at lower prices than those collected
source.
                                                 
2 Esha Shah Rajaram, 1997; Plastic Recycling in Bangalore - India, plastic carry case study
Recycling, Waste Publications Gouda, the Netherlands.


The choice of the vehicle is very important. There are countless projects that have opted for unsuitable transport means and of which the vehicles (often very sophisticated) are found to stop due to fuel exhaustion, breakdown, unobtainable parts, ...
It is therefore essential to thoroughly research the local situation before investing. The volumes of waste to be transported and the distances are known before the evaluation of the deposit made on the area.
c. Frequency, transmission and transfer
The table below shows, in order of increase in investment cost, the various means of transport traditionally used to collect urban waste.
Besides the type of collection system in place, it is important
consider three parameters are the frequency of collection, transport
and transfer.
1. The collection frequency of waste plastics is assessed during the implementation
up the collection system but must be regularly challenged.
It depends on various factors such as:
- The quantity of waste accumulated from the people where in the points
reunification. A collection too infrequent cause accumulations
waste and therefore significant nuisance: odor, visual pollution, risk
to be eaten by livestock, ... this may discourage the sort and all efforts
awareness will be destroyed.
- The quality of plastics, which is directly related to storage time of
waste sorted at the inhabitant in the streets or in landfills.
- Habits of the local community. In some communities, waste
are collected every day. A less regular collection of sorted plastics can
cause a blockage and prove unworkable.
The frequency of collection is an excellent indicator of the quality of
collection service. It is necessary to make every effort to make it the
highest possible.
2. We can not say it enough: "Transporter is expensive! . And transport
plastic is more expensive given their low densities (between 0.9 and 1.4,
but the bulk density rarely exceeds 400 kg / m³). It is therefore
need to be very careful about this aspect of the project.
To do this, some guidance may be followed:
- Making yourself up routes, including placing the facility
recycling center as possible to the area but also
intelligently organizing the pick-up.
- Use of transport cheap and environmentally-adapted
Local.
- Subjecting the best waste to densify the content of vehicles
pickup. For this, it is sometimes advisable to have an initial
cut before placing in the vehicle.
Photo 3.13: Dumping of municipal refuse
Arequipa


{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:left"
The choice of vehicle is very important. There are countless projects that have opted
|-
for transportation and misfits whose vehicles (often very
|Vehicle ||Volume ||Range ||Accessibility ||Remarks
sophisticated) is found to stop due to fuel exhaustion, breakdown, parts
|-
unobtainable parts, ...
|Handcart ||0.25 to 1 m³ ||~ 1 km ||Everywhere ||Cheap, no negative effects on the environment
It is therefore essential to thoroughly research the local situation before investing. The
|-
volumes of waste to be transported and the distances are known from
|Tricycle with pedals||1.5 m³ ||1 to 3 km ||passable trails ||Faster, no negative impacts on the environment, lifetime sometimes limited.
evaluation of the deposit made on the area.
|-
The table below shows, in order of increasing investment, the various
|Animal-pulled cart|| 1.5 m³~7 km|| passable trails of a with larger than 2.5m ||Greater investment cost (purchase, nutrition and animal care). Little impact on the environment, except for the excrement.
transportation traditionally used to collect waste
|-
urban.
|Small motor vehicles (motorcycles, tractors, freight motorbike, ...)||1.5 to 4 m³ ||Up to 10km ||Passable trails ||Lifetime often limited because they are pushed to their maximum capacity. Fuel expenses.
|-
Vehicle Volume Range Accessibility Notes
|Pick-up ||3 to 6 m³ ||Very far ||Passable roads and tracks ||High investment cost (purchase, insurance, fuel, maintenance, ...)
Cart
|-
arm
|Truck ||Up to 12 m³||Very far ||Passable roads of a minimum width ||Very high investment cost, expensive and sometimes difficult obtainable spares, great delay of delivery for these parts, ...
0.25 to 1 m³ ~ 1 km Everywhere Cheap, no negative effects on
|-
Environment
|}
Scooter to
pedals
1.5 m³ 1 to 3 km trail passable Faster, no negative impacts
environmental, life
sometimes limited.
Cart
traction
Animal
1.5 m³ ~ 7 km Trail wagon
wide
than
2.5 m
Greater investment (purchase,
nutrition and care of animals). Few
impact on the environment
Except for excrement.
Small vehicles
Motor
(motorcycles
tractors,
scooters, ...)
1.5 to 4 m³ Until
ten km
Vehicle track life often limited because
pushed to their maximum
capacity. Fuel expenses.
Pick up 3 to 6 m³ Very High Road & Track
wagon
Significant investment (price
purchasing, insurance costs
fuel, maintenance, ...).
Up to 12 m³ Truck Very high road passable
wide
minimum
Heavy investment, spare
spares expensive and sometimes little
accessible delivery
important for these parts, ...
Table 3.6: Types of collection vehicles
Table 3.6: Types of collection vehicles
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_18.jpg|thumb|right|200px|primary collection of plastic waste using a handcart (Kinshasa, 2003)]]
Accessibility is a qualitative type of data. The streets in some neighborhoods are too narrow, congested or unpassable for large vehicles to pass.
We evaluate the accessibility by identifying the streets of the area and classifying them according to their ease of access:
* For large vehicles: truck, pickup
* For light vehicles: pickup, van, small motorized vehicles, ...
* For non-motorized vehicles: freight motorbike, cart, carts, ...
* Only on foot.
3. The notion of transfer occurs when the collection system in place requires different means of transport. We then talk of different levels of collection:
* The primary collection. This is the collection at the place of waste production, notably at the inhabitants, at the enterprises, at the merchants, ... When travel distances permit and when the quantities of waste to be collected do not exceed the capacity of the used vehicle, the waste is directly transferred to the recycling center.
* The secondary collection. The distances from collection sites to landfill or recycling center is sometimes too long, notably for cart- or freight-motorbike-type vehicles. It is better to conduct a waste collection run and then transferring the collected waste into a larger vehicle which is better suited for long trips. We call these stopovers "transfer sites".
* The tertiary, quaternary, ... collection. And so, we can multiply the methods of transport and the transfer sites. The waste may also be transferred to sorting centers. The recyclable matter is then transported to the recycling centers while the leftover waste is going to the landfill.
   
   
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_19.png|thumb|right|200px|Example of a schematic of a primary, secondary, ... collection system]]
The main thing is know whether to proceed from a primary to a secundairy waste collection and the costs of this transfer must be evaluated according to the material used in each phase.
   
   
Moreover, we must carefully determine the best method for unloading the primary vehicles and the loading of the secondary vehicles. For this, there are two ways in which to proceed:
Photo 3.14: primary collection of waste
* The direct transfer consists of simply loading the waste by hand or by using tools from the primary or secundary vehicle. This technique, unfortunately too often used, is very inefficient and not hygienic. The transfer is very slow. We are wasting time (and money) because we need to synchronize the vehicles. The environment is often polluted by any waste falling off during operations.
plastics made using a
handcart (Kinshasa, 2003)


[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_20.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Direct transfer]]
   
   
* The transfer at two levels consists of raising the primary collection vehicle sufficiently high so as to be able to dump the waste into the vehicle or in a secondary container using the force of gravity. This can be done by constructing ramps, pits, or simply by using the natural elevation of a slope. The transfer is so much faster and more hygienic. The economic performance is obviously much greater.
   
   
Accessibility is a more qualitative data. The streets in some neighborhoods are
[[Image:Plastics_recovery_manual_3_image_21.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Unloading ramp for the transfer at two levels]]
too narrow, congested or not passable for large vehicles
pickups can pass.
We appreciate the accessibility by identifying the streets of the area and classify
according to their ease of access:
- For large vehicles: trucks, pickup
- For light vehicles: pickup, van, small motorized vehicles, ...
- By non-motorized vehicles: scooters, cart, carts, ...
- Only on foot.
3. The concept of transfer occurs when the collection system in place
involves different means of transport. This is called different levels
collection:
- The primary collection. This is the gathering place for the production of waste at
knowledge among the inhabitants in the company, at the merchant, When ...
distances permit and quantities of waste not collected
exceed the capacity of the vehicle used, the waste is directly
deposited in the recycling center.
- Secondary collection. The distances from collection to landfill or
recycling center are sometimes too long, especially for vehicles
type carts or scooters. It is better to conduct a
Waste collection and transferring it into a vehicle more
larger and better suited for long trips. We call these places
assembly sites of transfer.
- Collection tertiary, quaternary, ... And so, we can multiply the ways
transport and transfer sites. Waste may also pass through
sorting centers. The recyclables are then transported to the centers
recycling while the final waste going to landfill.
Website
transfer
Center
sorting
Discharge
Center
Composting
Center
Recycling
Website
transfer
Website
transfer
Primary
Secondary
Tertiary
Figure 3.5: Example schema collection system primary, secondary, ...


The question is whether to proceed with the transfer of waste collection
primary and secondary collection costs of this transfer must be
reviewed according to the material used in each phase.
Moreover, we must carefully determine the best method for
unloading of vehicles primary and secondary vehicle loading.
For this, there are two ways to proceed:
- The direct transfer is to simply load the waste by hand or
Using tools from vehicle to vehicle primary school. This technique,
unfortunately too often used, is very inefficient and not hygienic.
The transfer is very slow. We're wasting time (and money) because you
synchronize vehicles. The environment is often polluted by waste
escaping during operations.
Figure 3.6: Direct Transfer
- Transfer at two levels which is to raise the vehicle for collecting primary
sufficiently high as to be able to dump the waste by gravity into the
vehicle or in a secondary container. This can be done by constructing
ramps, pit, or simply enjoying the natural slope of a
slope. The transfer is so much faster and more hygienic. The
Economic performance is obviously much better.
Figure 3.7: Ramp unloading a shipment at two levels
Note:
Note:
A ramp slope is too gentle a lot of space. A slope too steep
A too gentle slope takes up a lot of space. A too steep slope limits the weight contained in the primary vehicle.
weight limits contained in the primary vehicles.
    
    
To learn more about waste management:
To learn more about waste management:
H. C. Haan, A. Coad, I. Lardinois, 1999, municipal waste management: Involving micro -
H.C. Haan, A. Coad, I. Lardinois, 1999, Gestions de déchets municipaux: Engager des micro- et petites entreprises, translation by F. Weijters-Bage, SKAT, Switzerland.
and small businesses, translation by F. Weijters-Bage, SKAT, Switzerland.
Book intented to managers of municipal solid waste who seek to improve their service or save money. He answers the questions "why" and "how" to engage small groups in community-based collection of solid waste from streets, households and businesses. The authors look mainly on the situations encountered in countries with low and medium incomes and derive many lessons from experiences that were made in Latin America, South-East Asia and Africa.
Book for managers of municipal solid waste sought
improve service or save money. He answered questions "why" and
"How to" engage small groups in community-based collection
solid waste from streets, households and businesses. The authors look
mainly on the situations encountered in countries with low and medium incomes and derive
Many lessons from experiences that were made in Latin America, Asia
South-East and Africa.
This book can be obtained at:
This book can be obtained at:
Intermediate Technology Publications Ltd..
Intermediate Technology Publications Ltd.
103-105 Southampton Row, London WCIB 4HH, UK
103-105 Southampton Row, London WCIB 4HH,  
UK
tel. : + 44 171 436 9761
tel. : + 44 171 436 9761
fax. : + 44 171 436 2013
fax. : + 44 171 436 2013
e-mail: itpubss@gn.apc.org
e-mail: itpubss@gn.apc.org
www.waste.nl
website: www.waste.nl
Website of the NGO WASTE hollandaise, which specializes in management
Website of the dutch ngo WASTE; which specializes in the management of solid waste in developing countries. Some publications (in English) can be directly downloaded from the website (Integrated Sustainable Waste Management, UWEP). Others may be ordered by contacting Verele de Vreede, information officer (fax: + 31 182 5503 13 e-mail: vdevreede@waste.nl). The prices vary between 5 and 25 €.
solid waste in developing countries. Some publications (in English)
 
can be directly downloaded from the website (Integrated Sustainable Waste
==References==
Management UWEP). Others may be ordered by contacting the Verel
{{reflist}}
Vreede, Information Officer (fax: + 31 182 5503 13 e-mail: vdevreede@waste.nl). The
 
Prices vary between 5 and 25 €.
[[Category:Plastics recovery manual]]

Revision as of 07:44, 10 February 2013

Sources of waste: where to collect?

Depending on the geographical dispersion, degree of contamination and heterogeneity, it is possible to distinguish four types of plastic waste: industrial waste, commercial waste, agricultural waste and municipal waste.

Industrial waste

"Identified, unmixed, not polluted" We call "industrial waste" the waste produced by plastics processing companies, but also the leftover waste generated from the use of these plastics in the packaging industry, construction, ... These wastes have not yet been integrated into the consumption cycle. The plastics processing companies generate internal plastic waste which may be:

  • Purges, which are usually in the form of large blocks of several kilos. These residues result from the discharge of injection or extrusion apparatuses. This can occur for various reasons: stops, maintenances, changes of molds or dies, changing of the coloring for the plastics. These plastics are not always top quality. They can particularly contain a large proportion of lubricants.
  • Injecting carrots and grapes: this is the material that fills the injection channels (see Chapter 5). They are recovered during the demolding of the injected parts. They weigh, at most, a few tens of grams.
  • Parts with defects which can therefore not be sold.

The combination of these residues may represent 10% of the production.

File:Plastics recovery manual 3 image 1.jpg
Injection carrot in a mold
File:Plastics recovery manual 3 image 2.jpg
Grapes in a mold with four prints

The large processing companies usually have their own recycling channel (primary recycling). Those that can not afford this prefer outsourcing this activity by giving or selling it to workshops capabale of recycling them. They are generally interested in rebuying the then recycled plastics.

Note: Purged blocks are very difficult to break apart. They require cutting beforehand which few companies bother to do. It can therefore be interesting to get them at a low price and recycle them. The processing companies are not the only producers of industrial waste. Other companies use plastics too. Their activities can generate large quantities of waste. As an example, we can take the manufacturers of window frames. They buy extrusion PVC profiles from processing companies. They then cut to them to size in order to make the chassis. They thus generate clean and well identified waste that can be easily collected and recycled. The packaging and conditioning sectors are also a good sources of waste. Industrial wastes are an often forgotten source of plastics. It offers however many advantages:

  • Deposits already identified;
  • Regulated supply;
  • Clean and unmixed waste;
  • Collection integrated within the undertaking;
  • Collection points geographically well defined;

Commercial waste

"Identified, mixed" Commercial waste is waste from workshops and shops. After an inventory of these institutions, it is possible to identify the types of plastic waste they generate. A collection system can then be introduced within these institutions.

There are two types of commercial waste:

Waste;mixed/little fouled Waste;mixed/fouled
department stores (packaging),enterprises (pipes, films, ...), plumbing (PVC pipes) ... hotels (containers, ...), restaurants, bars (vials, bottles, ...), service stations, garages (drums), hairdressers (bottles), hospitals, pharmacies, ...
Advantages: regular supply, established collection points, easy sorting, light wash Advantages: regular supply, established collection points, easy sorting

Table 3.1: Commercial waste types

Agricultural waste

Farming and forestry activities also consume plastics for construction (irrigation pipes, stakes, tarps, ...) or for packaging (jerry cans, feed sacks, plastic film, ...). The deposits are often more distant, but this source should not be overlooked. With a good sensibilisation, farmers can store their plastic waste. We can then collect the waste once or twice a year.

PVC covers for the storage of water

Municipal waste

"Unidentified, mixed, fouled" Waste plastics from municipal waste is usually the most important deposit. The deposit is directly linked to the consumption of the target population, for two reasons:

  • A resident can generate up to 1 kg of waste per day if his means is high, but this value is less for a person of limited means (less than 0.5 kg per day);
  • also, depending on the living standard, the plastic content in the waste represents 3 to 8% (by weight). Also, the amount of plastic waste generated per person per year can vary between 5 kg and 25 kg. These wastes are usually heterogeneous, dispersed, and very heavily fouled. They consist primarily of packaging films, bags, bottles, ...

Their supply is however regular. We can recover plastics from municipal waste:

  • directly from the consumer (least fouled)
  • from streets and parks (very fouled)
  • from sorting centers (very fouled)
  • from dumps (very fouled)
Collection of waste in streets (Yaounde)

Sorting centers are usually micro-or small businesses that collect the household waste for conversion into compost. They often do a brief sorting of these wastes in order to extract the metals and plastics. If the metals are sometimes recovered, plastics are often placed together. They can represent significant deposits.

Hand-sorting of non-organic matter in a composting facility (Brazil)

In addition to the regular supply, it is important not to overlook the waste generated by certain events such as local festivals, sidewalk sales, events, ... during which fouled waste plastics that are relatively well identified are discarded.

Evaluation of a deposit

The goal of a deposit evaluation is to determine the potential waste plastics that are available for a project: location, quantity, quality, renewal, ... The evaluation result is an indispensable step for the selection and design of a recycling system. It helps to know the amount of waste that can be treated, the types of plastics to recycle, the collection system to implement, the choice of machines, the necessary investment, the required amount of labor, ...

Deposit evaluation campaign Choices of approach
  • Amount of plastics available;
  • Main sources of waste;
  • Types of plastics (PE, PP, PVC, ...);
  • Renewal of the amount of generated waste;
  • ... ||
  • Types and quantities of the plastics to recycle;
  • Choice of a collection system;
  • Necessairy space for washing, drying, processing, ...
  • Capacity of the grinder and other machinery investments;
  • Types of endproducts; ...

Table 3.1: Specifics in evaluating a deposit for choosing an approach in recycling.

The following paragraphs describe the general approach for a detailed campaign relative to all possible sources of supply. When the outline of a project is already defined, it is not necessary to take into account all these steps. We leave the choice to the reader to refer to the third parties concerning his project.

Choosing a prospecting area

Above all, it is important to choose the geographical location in which plastics will be collected wisely. It is certain that one project is not another. Some constraints can directly define the collection area. Similarly, the objectives to attain for the project will be decisive. Also, for a plastic recycling project of which the objective consists to cooperating with a plan of waste managament in a neighborhood or village, we must ensure a large coverage of the generated waste in that zone. On the contrary, if the intention is to manufacture recycled plastic objects of quality, the project initiator will choose highly industrialized areas or areas with a high income where the quantity and quality of waste plastics are generally higher. However, some criteria must determine the selection of an area:

  1. We preferably select areas closest to the center of recycling. Indeed, transport of waste plastic is expensive. This is due to their low density: 100 to 400 kg/m³. The volumes to move thus become great quickly. At the transport level, the ideal location of the recycling center is obviously the center of the surveyed area.
  2. The amount of plastic waste generated by a household is related to its consumption, thus its purchasing power. We thus find more plastic waste in dumpsters of rich neighborhoods than in poor neighborhoods.
  3. The larger the area, the greater the collection system that needs to be set up. Initially, it is better to limit oneself to a small area, and then expand.
  4. Wherever possible, we try to integrate industrial areas. These indeed produce waste, but may also consume our recycled plastics.

Characteristics of the studied area

Once the prospection of the area is finished, a preliminary investigation is necessary to prepare the sampling campaign. This gathered information makes up a kind of identity card of the studied area. Amongst this information we find:

  • The size of the area Szone(km²), preferably evaluated using a map;
  • The number of inhabitants in the area Nzone;
  • Population density Pzone, deduced from the first two numbers by the formula:

Failed to parse (syntax error): {\displaystyle P<sub>zone>/sub>=N<sub>zone>/sub>/S<sub>zone>/sub>(inhab./km²)}

  • The climate of the region. This affects the drying conditions: the number of days of sunshine, average temperature, rainfall, humidity, winds, ... All these data are used for choosing one or

another drying technique.

  • The main economic activities in the area: trade, agriculture, livestock, industries ...
  • A description of the habitat: rural or urban zones? The type of accommodation: detached house? buildings? farm? ...
  • Events and seasonal activities.

Events are special days during which the quantity of generated waste may be larger than usual: fairs, sidewalk sales, local events, festivals, ... During a characterization campaign, we will not include these events. It is however important to identify them because they can require waste collections. Some regions enjoy seasonal activities. This is particularly the case in tourist areas where the influx of tourists during holiday periods increases the waste production (which may be significantly higher). It is then necessary to distinguish tourist periods from other periods.

Note: Where too are great differences within the study area occur, it is preferable to divide it into smaller areas (subareas). Each sub-area is characterized in the same manner as a zone. This can happen in the following situations:

  • Two areas where living standards are significantly different;
  • An industrial zone located next to a residential zone;
  • A permanent market integrated into a residential area, ...

Inventory of sources of waste plastics

Once the identity card of the zone is established, we can consider the possibilities to supply the waste plastics. This is done by making an inventory of the available sources. For each, we must collect a representative sample which, after characterization, evaluates the potential in recyclable plastics in the zone.

a. industrial waste The enumeration of plastic processing companies must be well beyond the borders of the targeted area. Indeed, they may play a determining role in the project: outsourcing of their internal waste, sale of used equipment, purchase of recycled plastics, ...

For each, we collect the following information:

  • The type of plastic that they process: PP, PVC, HDPE, LDPE, ...
  • The used processing techniques: injection, extrusion, blow molding, filming, ...
  • Manufactured articles: catch basins, chairs, films, bags, shoes, ...
  • Production (t/month).

We will also ask them the following questions:

  • Does their activity generate waste?
  • If so, what ? Purges, injection carrots or grapes, defective parts, ...
  • Do they recycle their internal waste (primary recycling) ?
  • Are they interested to outsource this activity (or a part thereof)?
  • If so, which? How much plastic does that represent ?

We will also use this meetup to inquire about their interest on working with recycled materials from the treatment center established by the project (see chapter 6).

Besides the plastic processing companies, it is important to also identify all other companies with activities that generate waste plastics and fall into our line of work.

  • What types of waste do they produce? How much? What do they make ?
  • Would they agree to work with a recycling center? Under what conditions? Would they agree to establish a selective collection system for these wastes in their company?

b. commercial waste On a campaign evaluation, it is not possible to go around all of the businesses in the area in question. We rather evaluate this waste deposit using the following methodology:

  1. Determine the businesses that are most likely to generate waste plastics, and group them by category. For each category, describe the types of waste likely to be produced.
  2. Select a few traders and undertake with them a campaign of selective collection of their waste plastics. It doesn't do any good to work with too many businesses: three to five are usually sufficient. After having well explained the aim of the campaign to the traders, we suggest them to put aside all their plastic waste which they obtain in a certain period of time. A fortnight is recommended. After this period, we harvest the waste and store it in bags on which we note the name of the business and the waste class.
  3. Weigh all the bags and note down the weight category in a table. When a sample of a class seems different, it is better to discard it rather than wanting to integrate it at any cost. Indeed, it may distort the results, more than provide interesting information.
  4. For each category, estimate the number of businesses present in the area of prospection.
  5. Calculate the quantity of waste available by category and then sum them up to get the total weight of the of commercial waste in the area to study.
Weighing samples (Kinshasa, 2003)

Notes:

  • The sensibilisation of the traders in the project area is essential. The quality of samples collected is dependant on it. It is particularly important to emphasize that only the commercial waste must be preserved. They do not need to add any other waste. Some people have a tendency to insert all waste they find in order to show that they are able to raise significant quantities of waste. These laudable intentions may distort the data.
  • Be wary of waste from hospitals and pharmacies. These may have contained drugs or other substances, and thus need to be handled with care. It is best to check with doctors and pharmacists, and to establish with them a list of "recyclable" waste. Other waste will be

not be collected.

  • If the area is not too large, a systematic count of businesses may be achieved by walking the streets. When the area is too large, this work becomes too complex. We prefer to select only a few areas (preferably on the map), and counting the businesses in these neighborhoods and extrapolate the data for the entire area.

Example of a reminder table:

Category Type of waste Sensibilised shops In the zone
kg kg/com. kg
Garages Oil cans 3 6 0.5 22 44
Service stations Oil cans 4 24 6 4 24
Hairdressers bottles (shampoo,lacquers, dyes, ...) 3 0.3 0.1 27 2.7
Cafes bottles, racks, tables, chairs, ... 5 2.5 0.5 46 23
Pharmacies bottles 3 0.5 0.17 12 2
Hospitals bottles 2 0.8 0.2 7 2.8
Total 98.5

Table 3.2: Example of a summary evaluation campaign (15 days)

Example: Estimated number of shops in an area of Kinshasa (2003) The study area comprises three communes of Kinshasa: Lemba, Ngaba and Makala. Living standards and activities of these three municipalities are very different, the area has been divided into three sub-areas corresponding to the three municipalities. Given the importance of sub-areas, only a few representative neighborhoods of the sub-areas were studied.

Division of the area into subareas and neighborhoods

After having sensibilised some traders, a campaign of selective waste collection was undertaken over a period of 15 days. This has allowed to determine the amount of plastic waste produced by each category of businesses in each sub-area.

The results are extrapolated to the entire sub-area using an equal factor regarding the surface cover per subarea and those of the studied neighbourhoods.: Failed to parse (Conversion error. Server ("https://wikimedia.org/api/rest_") reported: "Cannot get mml. TeX parse error: Double subscripts: use braces to clarify"): {\displaystyle Q<sub>subarea</sub>=Q<sub>sensibilized</sub>_{X}_{N}<sub>neighbourhood</sub>_{X}_{S}<sub>subarea</sub>/S<sub>neighbourhood</sub>} with:

  • Qsubarea (kg): quantity of plastic waste produced in the sub-area;
  • Qsensibilized(kg/com.): quantity of waste plastics per sensibilised businesses;
  • Nneighbourhood: number of enterprises in the studied neighbourhood(s);
  • Ssubarea(m²): surface area of the sub-area (calculated from the map);
  • Sneighbourhood(m²): surface area of studied neighbourhoods (calculated from the map).

All results are noted down into a table:

Category Sensibilised In the neighbourhood In the subarea
(kg/com.) Kg Kg
Area 1 Neighbourhoods 1 and 2 (12%)
Garages 1.0 4 4.0 33 33.0
Gas station-services 4.0 6 24.0
Hairdressers 0.1 4 0.4 33 3.3
Cafes 1.2 6 7.2 50 60.0
Total of area 1 120.3
Area 2 Neighbourhood 1(13%)
Garages 0.5 3 1.5 23 11.5
Cafes 1.0 7 7.0 54 54.0
Pharmacies 0.4 4 1.6 31 12.4
Hospitals 2.5 2 5.0 15 37.5 Total area 2 115.4
Area 3 Neighbourhood 3 (15%)
Hairdressers 0.1 3 0.3 20 2.0
Cafes 0.7 6 4.2 40 28.4
Pharmacies 0.6 3 1.8 20 12.0
Hospitals 3.0 9 2.7
Total Zone 3 55.1
Total in all zones 280.8

Table 3.3: Evaluation of waste products in 3 commercial communes in Kinshasa

We take note that no service stations are installed in the two studied districts of Lemba (subarea 1). However, there are 6 in the municipality of where 2 were sensibilised (4kg/station). The results could of been directly placed in the last columns of the table. The same applies to hospitals in area 3. In total, the amount of commercial waste produced in the three municipalities has been estimated at 280.8 kilograms over a period of 15 days, or 561.6 kilograms per month.

Campaign evaluation in service stations practicing vindageage (Kinshasa, 2003)

c. agricultural waste When such sources of waste presents themselves, we will apply the same evaluation methodology as for commercial waste. We however choose a longer period (2 to 3 months) and a number of larger enterprises.

d. municipal waste Before evaluating the municipal waste deposit in a targeted area, we first need to know what is currently happening with this waste by asking the following questions:

  • Is there a collection system set up? If so, what type (see Selective collection systems)? Is it structured? What is the frequency of collection? What type of transport ?
  • Where is the collected waste brought to ? Are they sorted in a recovery center for composting or other? Are they dumped in a municipal landfill or is it illegally dumped ?
  • Is there a lot of garbage on the highway ?

After finding answers to these questions, it may be useful to sketch the transfer of the waste stream on paper to design a strategy for estimating the amount of available plastic waste. There is no universal strategy, every situation is different. However, some guidelines can be followed:

  1. To the extent that their activity is structured, it is always preferable to work with people already active in collecting garbage. In fact, they perform a collection directly from the consumer (upstream collection) with whom they generally maintain a relationship of confidence. After explaining the project in detail, it is possible to conduct a campaign evaluation with some of these collectors. This campaign will run for a fortnight and will consist of asking them to separate the plastic waste from the garbage they collect. After the campaign, the plastics will be weighed and the data will be entered in a table similar to that of the commercial waste. Extrapolating this to the entire area is done using an estimation of the areas covered by the collectors.
  2. Where there is no sufficiently structured collection system, it is possible to realise a sensibilisation campaign among the locals. To do this, simply select a few neighborhoods in the area and proceed in the same way as for commercial waste, motivating people to separate plastics and other wastes.
  3. The evaluation of waste lying in the streets is very difficult or impossible their waste flows are so irregular and heterogeneous.
  4. Direct evaluation in the landfill is always inadvisable because the waste released there are often very fouled and the hygienic condition for working here is precarious. However, when there is no alternative, this evaluation is relatively simple. It consists of determining the percentage of plastics contained in the garbage and assessing the amount of waste that is sent daily to the landfill. The product of these two results gives the amount of plastics available

every day: Failed to parse (Conversion error. Server ("https://wikimedia.org/api/rest_") reported: "Cannot get mml. TeX parse error: Double subscripts: use braces to clarify"): {\displaystyle Q<sub>discharge</sub>=\%<sub>plast.</sub>_{X}_{M}<sub>discharge</sub>}

with

  • Qdischarge (kg/day): quantity of daily available plastic waste
  • %plast.: percentage by weight of the plastics contained in the garbage
  • Mdischarge (kg/day): daily quantity of garbage sent to through the discharge
Estimation of a plastic waste deposit found in a dump (Arequipa, 2003)

Sampling will be performed to characterize the identified plastic.

Characteristics of collected waste

Once samples are collected and gathered, we must determine what their main characteristics are to determine the proportion of recoverable material in these wastes. This characterization is done for each category of collected waste.

Determination of the degree of fouling of vials gathered in the streets of Kinshasa (2003)

To do so, various data can be found on collected batches, namely:

  1. The degree of fouling: this is the proportion of matter other than the recyclable plastic that the waste contains: labels, metal components, plastics of a different nature than the object, ... It is found by removing these unwanted bodies, weighing them and calculating their proportion by weight (see chapter 2).
  2. The degree of soil: this is determined by weighing the samples before and after the washing (see chapter 2). Knowledge on the levels of fouling and soil of a batch of plastic allows the calculating of the amount of potentially recoverable plastics. For plastic bottles for which the degree of fouling is equal to 5% and the degree of soil is 10%, we know that for a kilo collected only 855 g. can potentially be recovered (0.95 x 0.90 x 1000g.)
  3. The types of plastics: these are determined by the recognition criteria described in chapter 2. Thus, for each collected sample, we determine the percentage of each major category of plastics (PP, HDPE, LDPE, PS, PVC) and the proportion of other plastics for which recovery will probably not be considered.

Besides these three types of important data, other characteristics may be determined. This is the case with the percentage of matter which can not go through a grinder and therefore requires a preliminary cut up. In the case where there is already a grinder, it is obtained by weighing the parts that are larger than the mouth of the grinder and dividing the obtained weight by the total weight of the sample. Otherwise, we will consider the waste that can not go through a rectangular hole (cut from a sheet of cardboard, for example) of 150 x 150 mm, corresponding to a typical opening of a grinder with a capacity of 150 kg/h as ungrindable.

Failed to parse (Conversion error. Server ("https://wikimedia.org/api/rest_") reported: "Cannot get mml. TeX parse error: Double subscripts: use braces to clarify"): {\displaystyle Plast.<sub>tobecutup</sub>(\%)=Plast.<sub>ungrindable</sub>(kg)/Sample(kg)_{X}_{1}00}

Vials and bottles are generally regarded as belonging to this category. Indeed, their rounded shape makes sure they are not driven by the grinder knives. They therefore require a preliminary division. Another interesting fact is the drying time (in the sun, for example) of washed plastic matter. It allows to evaluate the drying area to be foreseen and, if it shows that solar drying is not possible, allows to explore other drying techniques (see chapter 4). All these characteristics need not be determined for the entire collected batch. Smaller samples, but as representative as possible, may do the trick. Finally, all results will be placed in an overall table that will highlight the intresting deposits of plastics, to dimension the approach of recycling to be put in place (machines, human resources, consumables, ...) and to budget the project (see chapter 6). This approach seems long and tedious. It is however necessary if one wants to adopt a work strategy to implement into his recycling project, notably regarding the balance of material flows and economic prospects. Furthermore, characterization is not only useful for the evaluation phase, but also duting the production to reevaluate the operation of a certain deposit!

For more information on evaluating waste deposits: For people who dispose of only a minimum in equipment and knowledge regarding computing, the ModecomTM software is a useful tool to facilitate the management of the collected data of the campaign, but also during the period of production. This program, developed by ADEME (Agence de l'Environnement et de la Maitrise de l'Energie, France) for the management of domestic waste can be adapated to the projects described in this manual. It can manage the basic data and derive key information. For more information, consult the website of the ADEME (www.ademe.fr) at the section "publications". We find here the conditions of sale (price: 30,49 €) and a downloadable order form to send to the following address: ADEME 2, square La Fayette BP 406 - 49004 Angers cedex 01 France Tel: 00 33 (0) 2 41 20 41 20 Fax: 00 33 (0) 2 41 20 41 97

Collection systems

Sensibilisation

Experience has shown that the recycling of plastic waste is an activity that can be profitable. This profitability is often compromised when the recycling center must take charge of the own sensibilisation of people regarding the problematic of waste. Sensibilisation requires substantial resources that must not be neglected. Generally, it is advised to separate the two activities and to be imaginative about how to sensibilisation is done: financing research parallel to those funding the project, involvement of local authorities or associations sensitive to the environment, use of communications media (media), ...

a. Sensibilisation of collection agents The sensibilisation of collection agents is essential. They are in fact directly in contact with waste producers and thereby contribute to their sensibilisation. Moreover, they are the ones who handle the waste. They can then judge the quality of the sorting. These agents may be part of the recycling center, work for their own account or belong to an existing collection network. Their sensibilisation can be done through training sessions. They will notably learn:

  • Sensibilisation of their role in industry development;
  • The extent of the damage plastic waste can do to the environment, but also the benefit that be provided for it;
  • To differentiate the recyclable plastics amongst each other and evaluate their quality (fouling, soil, ...);
  • To sensibilise the population of the problem of plastic waste.
Training of collection agents (Yaounde)

Do not hesitate to explain in detail the central activity, and the problems encountered throughout the recycling process, especially when the quality of the waste is also put into consideration. It is also important to perform debates to know everyone's problems and find solutions adressing everyone's interests.

b. Sensibilisation of waste producers Education and sensibilisation of the inhabitants or waste producers to separate the plastics from other waste is not done overnight. Indeed, the audience often has other concerns as sorting their daily waste. It is nevertheless important that sorting is done; the supply of plastic recycling centers depend on it. Women and children are most susceptible to environmental problems. Women are the primary concerned ones because it are them who often dominate the daily household tasks, and therefore the cleanliness and waste. Children are more engaged in separate collection from a personal motivation (see Table 3.5), which will bring them an intresting little income. Furthermore, the sensibilisation from an early age has long-term effects.

Sensibilisation at a women's committee meeting(Yaounde)

Communication channels for a good sensibilisation are numerous. The main thing is not to lack imagination. As examples, here are some ideas:

  • Articles in local newspapers, posters in the streets;
  • Radio and television commercials;
  • Meetings in associations sensitive to the environment (including women's associations);
  • Fun activities in schools (drawing contests, games on the theme of waste ...);
  • Message at religious events, sporting, cultural, ...
  • Organized visit to the recycling center for stressing the importance of sorting at the source, ie by the people.

During these campaigns, we seek to empower collection agents that stress the importance of their activity for the safety of their neighborhoods. Sensibilisation is an activity to be renewed perpetually. Good habits get lost quickly. It is always necessary to find new ideas.

Selective collection systems

Selective collection inserted into a system from "door to door" (Kinshasa, 2003)

Collection systems are "the way how waste moves from the inhabitant or producer of waste to the collection service"[1]. In the case of the collection of plastic wastes, we speak of separate collection, ie which aims to collect only certain types of waste. The selective collection can be fit into an existing collection system or, conversely, be organized in parallel to it. Before running through the different collection systems that can be implemented, it is important to make some recommendations:

  • No ideal collection system exists. Each case needs to be studied to respond to the local context and project objectives. The best collection systems are those that are customised and not those who were simply copied.
  • Equip adapted means. In the collection, it is indeed tempting to use so-called "modern" means but these often do not meet the conditions of countries with low and medium incomes. Also, the purchase of expensive vehicles, but immobilized ones because they are not appropriate to road conditions or because the price of maintenance is too high do not make smart investments. Instead, it is often preferable to use methods which use a greater human capital and base technologies better adapted to the conditions.
  • For reasons of workhygiene, it is better to focus on maximizing the "Upstream collection", that is to say, at the inhabitant rather than recovery in streets and landfills. Wastes have indeed less soil, and are therefore less fouled. Moreover, washing and sorting will be facilitated.

a. Selective collection inserted into an existing collection network Table 3.4 shows the most common waste collection systems (H.C. Haan, 1999). For each system, some suggestions are proposed to insert a selective plastic waste collection.

System Description Selective collection Advantages Disadvantages
Shared People or waste producers can bring their waste when they so wish.
Deposits on specified places Inhabitants and other waste producers deposit their waste at a specific location or a masonry enclosure where they are transported. Possibility to limit a part of the enclosure reserved for waste plastics. Little investments Difficult loading. The sorting is little controlled. The plastics are often mixed with other waste, thus soiled. Theft of waste plastics.
Shared container Residents and other waste producers bring their waste to the container which is frequently moved or emptied. A container can be reserved to only hold plastic waste. Possibility to use closed containers that limits thefts. The sorting is little controlled. The plastics are often mixed with other waste. Fairly expensive.
Individual Inhabitants and farmers keep their waste at home until the collection
Block collection The garbage collector waits at the specified places where the inhabitants bring their waste to the collection cars. The garbage collector can recover the plastics separately and encourage residents to separate their waste. For this, the vehicles must be equipped with a compartment for plastics. Inexpensive. Good sorting control. Possibility of sensibilisation and payment. Requires a member of the family to be on-site and thus moves itself.
Sidewalk collection The waste is deposited in front of the houses and placed in a vehicle or investigated and collected by a garbage collector. Residents can deposit the plastic waste separatly. These are separately collected. Convenient for the inhabitants. Storage of the waste in the street, where it fouls and mixes.
Door-to-door collection The garbage collector goes to the inhabitants and waits until they bring him the waste. The inhabitants can deliver their plastic waste separately. The garbage collector will deposit the plastic waste in a container of his vehicle intented for the plastics. Possibility of sensibilisation and payment. No waste is stored in the street. Requires the presence of an inhabitant. Little suitable for large buildings.
Collection in the dooryard or garden The garbage collector enters the property to remove the waste. Residents can deposit plastic waste separatly. These are collected separately. Convenient for inhabitants. No waste stored in the street. Requires some trust between the garbage collector and the inhabitants.

Table 3.4: Insertion possibilities of a selective collection into existing collection systems

The "block" and "door-to-door" collection gives the best results because they bring together inhabitants and the collection agent. This may allow sensibilisation to improve the quality of the supplied plastic waste. It is not always possible to change people's habits by sensibilisation to separate the plastic waste from the other waste. Nevertheless, the collection agent can always sort the waste he picks up daily himself, and this irrespective of the collection system in place. The plastics thus recovered provide him an additional financial return.

Example of a selective collection in Cairo (Egypt) The case of the scavengers in lower Mokattam is one of the most famous in the collection. This neighbourhood of Cairo lives mainly on the collection and recycling of waste. Every day, the trash pickers go into the richer neighborhoods off the central city to collect the garbage (door-to-door, dooryard or garden collection). They divided themselves into neighborhoods buying a collection right and take the waste from their home to dispose of them. The sorting is usually a family affair. The waste is separated by the type of material (organics, wood, cardboard, paper, metals, plastics, ...) but also according to their destination. Also, the plastic waste is divided by color, objects (cans, jars, shoes, ...) and so on. Regarding these different kinds of plastics, there is a terminology that has been created. They speak not of PP, PE, PVC, ... but of hard plastics, soft, tender, ... All obtained objects are sold to recycling workshops or neighborhood intermediaries who undertake the task of recycling them. It is not uncommon for parts of this waste to be directly sold to official factories. Thus, the route from the informal sector to the formal sector is quite common.

b. selective collection established in parallel Some neighborhoods do not always dispose of domestic waste collection approaches or, if they exist, they may not be well enough structured so as to be able to introduce a separate collection of waste plastics. In these conditions, it is necessary to establish a separated collection system for plastic waste. The different options are described in Table 3.5.

System Description Advantages Disadvantages
Door-to-door collection Collection agents regularly visit the inhabitants or waste producers who wish to get rid of their plastic waste. These collection agents may either be employed by the recycling center or be paid by it according to weight. In some countries, the collection agents pay the inhabitants for the received plastics per kilogram. Possibility to sensibilise the inhabitants and the waste producers. The collected plastic waste is often of good quality. Slow job requiring a large number of agents. Requires the presence of inhabitants when the collection agents pass by.
Voluntary contributions Closed containers are placed at strategic locations in the area targeted by the project: major intersections, near markets, ... The inhabitants or waste producers come to dispose of their used plastics. Containers are regularly removed or emptied. Cheap system. No control over the quality. Much other wastes are generally found in these containers (thus fouled). Difficult to implement sensibilisation.
Contribution motivated by payment by weight Collection agents regularly visit strategic locations called "collection points". They pay the people or waste producers according to the weight of the given plastics. Often, young people perform their own collection from door-to-door and bring the received plastics to the collection points. Control of the quality of the received plastics. The waste can be paid according to their type if they are already pre-sorted according to the type. A good sensibilisation is then required. This system can be costly if the collection agents are not adequately trained tn the recognition and the prices of the plastic waste.
Sorting center These centers typically sort municipal waste into compost. An arrangement is made with the leaders of the sorting center to ensure that they also sort the plastic waste. The collection agents regularly visit the center to collect the plastics and may also pay by weight. The waste is already gathered in a place. Sorting centers are often interested in getting rid of this non-recycled waste. The plastic waste is often very soiled and fouled by other wastes (metals, paper, cartons, ...)
Dumpsite sorting (photo 3.12) The sorting is done when no selective collection system has been established. Sorting is then performed by people who earn their living bringing the plastic waste to the recycling center (or collection points). They are paid according to the weight of the plastics. The waste is assembled in a place. Precarious (unhealthy) working conditions. This system is to be avoided at all costs.

Table 3.5: Possibilities for inserting a collection system in parallel to existing collection systems

Dumpsite sorting (Arequipa, 2003)

When a voluntary contribution collection system is proposed, it is sometimes necessary to use closed containers so as to avoid any risk of theft of the plastic waste. The figure below illustrates a proposed solution for Kinshasa. This is an oil drum above which two steel pipes are welded at an angle. An opening system with a padlock allows collection agents to recover the plastic waste during their daily rounds. The cost of manufacturing this type of dumpster is 75€ (Kinshasa, 2003).

Selective closed dumpster made from a barrel (Kinshasa)

Example of payment motivated collection in Yaounde (Cameroon) In Yaoundé, specifically in the area of Etoug-Ebe, the NGO CIPRE (Centre International de Promotion de la REcuperation) has established a selective payment motivated collection system where the payment is done according to weight. Every fortnight, a dozen collection agents serve the 50 collection points located in this neighbourhood of about 100,000 inhabitants. Their role is to collect the plastic waste, pre-sorted, weigh, and package them and pay the inhabitants who bring them.

Collection agent calculating the fee to pay the child (Yaounde)

This system allows to collect ten tonnes of waste plastics per months, or one tonne per collection agent. In addition, it offers the advantage of a certain flexibility. Indeed, by adapting its compensation schedule, the IPRC can recover the plastics it wishes. So, the PE bottles are paid 25 CFA/kg (0.04 €/kg) while a kilo of PVC soles can reach 100 CFA (0,16 €). This system is not exploited to its full potential as an objective of CIPRE is to reduce the impact of plastic waste on the environment.

Example of a mixed system in Bangalore (India)[2] India is one of the most active countries in the recycling of plastic waste. In the city of Bangalore, a dual collection system exists. First, 3000-4000 collection agents perform a door-to-door collection and buy plastic waste from the inhabitants. These buyers collect on average 10 kg of plastics per day for 25 days a month. This source collection can obtain waste quality plastics with little fouling, with an intresting market value. On the other hand, 25,000 people sort on the various dumpsites of the city. They extract 15% of the recoverable material of which 4% of plastic waste. On average, each sorter recovers 8 kg of plastic a day and works 20 days a month. The most fouled waste is resold at lower prices than those collected at the source.

'c. Frequency, transmission and transfer Besides the type of collection system in place, it is important to consider three parameters which are the frequency of collection, transport and transfer. 1. The collection frequency of plastic waste is assessed during the implementation of the collection system but must be regularly updated. It is charecterized by various factors such as:

  • The quantity of accumulated waste with the inhabitants or in the reunification points. A too infrequent collection causes accumulations of waste and therefore significant nuisance: odor, visual pollution, risk of being eaten by livestock, ... this may discourage the sorting and all efforts in sensibilisation will be destroyed.
  • The quality of plastics, which is directly related to the storage time of the waste sorted by the inhabitant, in the streets or in the landfills.
  • Habits of the local community. In some communities, waste is collected every day. A less regular collection of sorted plastics can cause a blockage and become irreversable.

The frequency of collection is thus an excellent indicator of the quality of the collection service. It is necessary to make every effort into make it as high as possible.

2. We can not repeat it enough: "Transporting is expensive! And transporting plastic is even more expensive given their low densities (between 0.9 and 1.4, but the density in bulk rarely exceeds 400 kg/m³). It is therefore needed to be very wary about this aspect of the project. To do this, some advices may be followed:

  • Shorten up the routes as much as possible, including placing the recycling center as central as possible in the area but also by organizing the pick-up smartly.
  • Use of cheap transport, adapted to the local environment
  • Atleast condition the waste to densify the content of the collection vehicles. For this, it is sometimes advisable to already perform an initial cut up before placing it in the vehicle.
Dumping of municipal waste in Arequipa

The choice of the vehicle is very important. There are countless projects that have opted for unsuitable transport means and of which the vehicles (often very sophisticated) are found to stop due to fuel exhaustion, breakdown, unobtainable parts, ... It is therefore essential to thoroughly research the local situation before investing. The volumes of waste to be transported and the distances are known before the evaluation of the deposit made on the area. The table below shows, in order of increase in investment cost, the various means of transport traditionally used to collect urban waste.

Vehicle Volume Range Accessibility Remarks
Handcart 0.25 to 1 m³ ~ 1 km Everywhere Cheap, no negative effects on the environment
Tricycle with pedals 1.5 m³ 1 to 3 km passable trails Faster, no negative impacts on the environment, lifetime sometimes limited.
Animal-pulled cart 1.5 m³~7 km passable trails of a with larger than 2.5m Greater investment cost (purchase, nutrition and animal care). Little impact on the environment, except for the excrement.
Small motor vehicles (motorcycles, tractors, freight motorbike, ...) 1.5 to 4 m³ Up to 10km Passable trails Lifetime often limited because they are pushed to their maximum capacity. Fuel expenses.
Pick-up 3 to 6 m³ Very far Passable roads and tracks High investment cost (purchase, insurance, fuel, maintenance, ...)
Truck Up to 12 m³ Very far Passable roads of a minimum width Very high investment cost, expensive and sometimes difficult obtainable spares, great delay of delivery for these parts, ...

Table 3.6: Types of collection vehicles

primary collection of plastic waste using a handcart (Kinshasa, 2003)

Accessibility is a qualitative type of data. The streets in some neighborhoods are too narrow, congested or unpassable for large vehicles to pass. We evaluate the accessibility by identifying the streets of the area and classifying them according to their ease of access:

  • For large vehicles: truck, pickup
  • For light vehicles: pickup, van, small motorized vehicles, ...
  • For non-motorized vehicles: freight motorbike, cart, carts, ...
  • Only on foot.

3. The notion of transfer occurs when the collection system in place requires different means of transport. We then talk of different levels of collection:

  • The primary collection. This is the collection at the place of waste production, notably at the inhabitants, at the enterprises, at the merchants, ... When travel distances permit and when the quantities of waste to be collected do not exceed the capacity of the used vehicle, the waste is directly transferred to the recycling center.
  • The secondary collection. The distances from collection sites to landfill or recycling center is sometimes too long, notably for cart- or freight-motorbike-type vehicles. It is better to conduct a waste collection run and then transferring the collected waste into a larger vehicle which is better suited for long trips. We call these stopovers "transfer sites".
  • The tertiary, quaternary, ... collection. And so, we can multiply the methods of transport and the transfer sites. The waste may also be transferred to sorting centers. The recyclable matter is then transported to the recycling centers while the leftover waste is going to the landfill.
Example of a schematic of a primary, secondary, ... collection system

The main thing is know whether to proceed from a primary to a secundairy waste collection and the costs of this transfer must be evaluated according to the material used in each phase.

Moreover, we must carefully determine the best method for unloading the primary vehicles and the loading of the secondary vehicles. For this, there are two ways in which to proceed:

  • The direct transfer consists of simply loading the waste by hand or by using tools from the primary or secundary vehicle. This technique, unfortunately too often used, is very inefficient and not hygienic. The transfer is very slow. We are wasting time (and money) because we need to synchronize the vehicles. The environment is often polluted by any waste falling off during operations.
Direct transfer
  • The transfer at two levels consists of raising the primary collection vehicle sufficiently high so as to be able to dump the waste into the vehicle or in a secondary container using the force of gravity. This can be done by constructing ramps, pits, or simply by using the natural elevation of a slope. The transfer is so much faster and more hygienic. The economic performance is obviously much greater.
Unloading ramp for the transfer at two levels

Note: A too gentle slope takes up a lot of space. A too steep slope limits the weight contained in the primary vehicle.

To learn more about waste management: H.C. Haan, A. Coad, I. Lardinois, 1999, Gestions de déchets municipaux: Engager des micro- et petites entreprises, translation by F. Weijters-Bage, SKAT, Switzerland. Book intented to managers of municipal solid waste who seek to improve their service or save money. He answers the questions "why" and "how" to engage small groups in community-based collection of solid waste from streets, households and businesses. The authors look mainly on the situations encountered in countries with low and medium incomes and derive many lessons from experiences that were made in Latin America, South-East Asia and Africa. This book can be obtained at: Intermediate Technology Publications Ltd. 103-105 Southampton Row, London WCIB 4HH, UK tel. : + 44 171 436 9761 fax. : + 44 171 436 2013 e-mail: itpubss@gn.apc.org website: www.waste.nl Website of the dutch ngo WASTE; which specializes in the management of solid waste in developing countries. Some publications (in English) can be directly downloaded from the website (Integrated Sustainable Waste Management, UWEP). Others may be ordered by contacting Verele de Vreede, information officer (fax: + 31 182 5503 13 e-mail: vdevreede@waste.nl). The prices vary between 5 and 25 €.

References

Template:Reflist

  1. H. C. Haan, A. Coad, I. Lardinois, 1999; Management of Municipal Solid Waste: Hire micro and small enterprises, guidelines for municipal officials; Intermediate Technology Publications, London.
  2. Esha Shah Rajaram, 1997; Plastic Recycling in Bangalore - India, case study report plastic recycling, Waste Publications, Gouda, the Netherlands.
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