Waste characterization in Istanbul and a proposal for biodegradable solid waste management

Abstract

The concept of integrated solid waste management is based on the strategies of waste prevention, waste reduction,reuse, recycling (including composting), incineration and disposal at existing landfills. Solid waste characterization isthe basis for integrated solid waste management. It is important to identify the solid waste composition for thedetermination, planning and implementation of any solid waste management system. In order to ensure a cleanerenvironment and lower greenhouse gas emissions; Turkey requires more robust and coherent strategies regardingthe solid waste management system. In order to plan an efficient integrated solid waste management system andensure a circular economy, it is necessary to include all the materials and production resources in the solid wastestream. The first step in waste management studies is to determine the waste characteristics. The characterizationstudy performed by ISTAC includes the determination of the timing and the selection of neighborhoods of the waste tobe collected, collection of representative samples of unprocessed waste, manual sorting of the waste into individualwaste components, data collection, laboratory analysis and reporting of the results. The characterization results havebeen analyzed and suggestions on the sustainable management of biodegradable waste have been introduced. Thispaper focuses primarily on Biodegradable Municipal Waste (BMW), which is produced largely by households andcommerce.The National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste has to set out and enforce a range of measures to meet EU’s ambitiousdiversion targets. The key to success is for all involved– local authorities, waste operators, businesses andhouseholders – to play their part in the successful implementation of the full range of integrated waste managementoptions. Even though there are legislations, broad support in their implementation should be provided by theGovernment.