WASTE MANAGEMENT TECHNO-ECONOMIC DECISION SUPPORT TOO

DISCLAIMER:

The following decision support tools are designed to provide users with guidance to make continuous a
their waste management systems and to inform investment decisions relating to sustainable waste recy

Users are encouraged to revisit and review these decision support tools over time to ensure that the mo
captured. The guidance encourages your company to attempt move towards management options whic
environmental or social benefits. This follows the principle of the waste management hierarchy ('three
such that the company should first attempt to reduce (or avoid generating waste), re-use or recycle prio
incineration, waste-to-energy or landfill disposal options that in almost all cases pose some risk to publ

Note that some recommendations may not be feasible or relevant to your specific use-case or in your sp
due to technical, infrastructural or institutional constraints. If in doubt, you are advised to obtain speci
or investing in a new waste management solution.

Please note that this tool was designed to be interactive and therefore is not fit for printi

WASTE CHARACTERISATION STUDY GUIDANCE

IMPORTANT

CDC highly recommends that partner companies conduct a waste characterisation study prior to review
Collecting and analysing waste characterisation data (e.g. the weight/proportion of each waste type in y
will greatly assist the company in identifying and investing in the most suitable waste management and
in your location.

Below is a simple waste register tool that allows you to quantify the volume of waste you produce. Usin
select the most appropriate decision tool. Please click the icon below.

WASTE REGISTRY
Key benefits of collecting waste characterisation data include:

• Helping the company determine whether investments in on-site recycling or recovery technologies ar
enough raw material is being produced to make efficient use of production and operating capacities and

• Helping the company secure beneficial partnerships with third party recycling companies. The compa
itself effectively as a potential raw material supplier to recycling companies and negotiate trading rates
materials.

• Understanding the average quantity of organic waste and natural waste that is generated in the compa
suitable composting, waste-to-energy or safe disposal solutions, while also helping to minimise the rate
organic waste may cause to other waste types (e.g. the contamination of dry paper recyclables, by wet o

• Segregating all waste produced via a waste characterisation study can help the company to identify an
previously unidentified or accidently mixed into the general waste stream. This allows the company to i
to safely and legally manage hazardous/dangerous waste.

WASTE CHARACTERISATION METHODOLOGIES

The key benefit for the company in relation to the CDC Decision Support Tools will be to understand w
you are producing and in what quantities. This will allow you to make informed decisions on the most a
way to manage your solid waste.

To do so, the company can use one or all the methodologies suggested below. In addition, it can use the
further guidance (if needed):

1. US-EPA Guidance

2. UNEP Guidance

METHODOLOGY DESCRIPTION PROS

 • Wide-participation from
company.
Company staff/employees or senior
• Useful benchmark when
management conduct a survey on
comparing against a
1. Qualitative Surveying their perceptions of waste
quantitative study (e.g.
characterisation (e.g. main waste
comparing perceptions on
streams and estimated quantities).
waste generation against actual
figures and characterisation).

All company staff/employees

participate in segragating the waste
• Wide-participation from
as soon as it is generating using the
2. Waste separation by company.
various bins provided in line with the
company staff (at individual • Accurate data concerning
waste characterisation categories.
level) characterisation and quantity
These are then weighted by a
of waste produced.
designated person to determine exact
amount of waste generated.

A dedicated team separates waste • Most accurate form of data

into different containers (in line with collection, provided that study
3. Waste separation by
the waste characterisation categories) team have been offered
dedicated team (at company
and weighs these when full in at a training or guidance on how to
level)
central location (e.g. waste and refuse differentiate between various
room of company). typologies and operate a scale.
 SCROLL RIGHT

C DECISION SUPPORT TOOL (CDC) SELECTI

1. WHAT TYPE OF WASTE DO YOU

GENERATE?
guidance to make continuous and iterative improvements to
elating to sustainable waste recycling or recovery options.

over time to ensure that the most up-to-date information is

ards management options which generate the greatest
management hierarchy ('three Rs': reduce, reuse, recycle)
ng waste), re-use or recycle prior to considering
all cases pose some risk to public and environmental health.

ur specific use-case or in your specific location (geography)

you are advised to obtain specialist advice before attempting 2. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE, REFER
TO THE INFOGRPAHIC BELOW
THAT CLEARLY IDENTIFIES EACH
herefore is not fit for printing. WASTE STREAM USING IMAGES

N STUDY GUIDANCE

cterisation study prior to reviewing guidance in this tool.

oportion of each waste type in your general waste stream)
suitable waste management and recovery options available

ume of waste you produce. Using this information, you can

ling or recovery technologies are worthwhile (e.g. whether
ion and operating capacities and costs).

ecycling companies. The company will be able to present

nies and negotiate trading rates for various recyclable

e that is generated in the company can help to identify

lso helping to minimise the rate of contamination that
dry paper recyclables, by wet organic material).

help the company to identify any hazardous wastes that were

m. This allows the company to initiate the necessary actions

N METHODOLOGIES

rt Tools will be to understand which general waste type/class

nformed decisions on the most appropriate and cost-effective

below. In addition, it can use the following documents for

PROS CONS
Wide-participation from
mpany.
Useful benchmark when
mparing against a
uantitative study (e.g.
mparing perceptions on
aste generation against actual
gures and characterisation).
• Based on personal opinions
and perceptions.
• May be inaccurate.
• Staff/employees may not
know how to participate or
carry out the study.

• Prone to the risk of

staff/employees not
Wide-participation from
participating or following
mpany.
guidance.
Accurate data concerning
• Staff/employees may not
haracterisation and quantity
know how to participate.
waste produced.
• Staff time/costs associated
with conducting the study

• Low participation levels from

company. Data collection and
Most accurate form of data
analysis is conducted by small
llection, provided that study
study team.
am have been offered
• Staff time/costs associated
aining or guidance on how to
with conducting the study
fferentiate between various
(higher than when attempting
pologies and operate a scale.
to separate waste at source -
see above)
 SELECTING THE RIGHT TOOL BASED ON THE WASTE PRODUCED
1. WHAT TYPE OF WASTE DO YOU
GENERATE?
2. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE, REFER
TO THE INFOGRPAHIC BELOW
THAT CLEARLY IDENTIFIES EACH
WASTE STREAM USING IMAGES
a. CONSTRUCITON AND
d. HAZARDOUS (E-WASTE)
DEMOLITION
b. MIXED PAPER e. HAZARDOUS (CHEMICAL)
c. MIXED PLASTICS f. HAZARDOUS (MEDICAL)
3. ONCE YOU HAVE 4. IF MORE THAN ONE WASTE
IDENTIFIED THE CORRECT STREAM WAS IDENTIFIED, OPEN
WASTE STREAM, OPEN EACH FILE ACCORDINGLY.
AND READ THROUGH THE
RELEVANT FILE.
WASTE STREAM VISUAL CLASSIFICATION
 SCROLL RIGHT

STE PRODUCED

The waste hierarchy is an international best pract

management option with the greatest environmenta
WASTE)
g. NATURAL & PROCESSED designed to reflect this waste hierarchy. The questio
ORGANIC method for avoiding or managing waste produced fr
to see if you can avoid waste management options at
and recycling over time.
EMICAL)

DICAL)

REDUCE
WASTE 5. FOLLOW THE TOOL AND
ED, OPEN COMPLETE THE STEPS OF
LY. THE WASTE HIERARCHY
(SEE BELOW). REUSE

ION

METHOD DESC

The minimisation of waste

quantity required to be tre
REDUCE usually achieved through b
process management

The reuse of waste and non

REUSE times as possible, to avoid
these items.
 The reuse of waste and non
REUSE times as possible, to avoid
these items.

The recycling of waste ma

commodities (e.g. baled pa
RECYCLE manufacturing of new-line
and recycled products (e.g

The recovery of energy or h

RECOVERY burning, digestion or other

The sanitary dumping of w

DISPOSAL landfills.
 WASTE HIERARCHY

n international best practice hierarchy for waste management. It is designed to guide you towards the waste
he greatest environmental benefit/positive impact first (where feasible). The decision support tree below is
te hierarchy. The questions should be followed in order, from top to bottom, until you find the most appropriate
naging waste produced from the company's operations. You should continuously review and revisit these options
e management options at lower levels of the decision tree/waste hierarchy; and increase waste reduction, reuse

Most
favoured
REDUCE option

REUSE

RECYCLE

RECOVER
Least
favoured
option
DISPOSE

DESCRIPTION
he minimisation of waste at its source to minimise the
uantity required to be treated and disposed of. This is
ually achieved through better product design and/or
ocess management
EXAMPLES
Working with suppliers and distribution partners to
reduce the quantity of raw material needed for
production or adopting technologies which result in less
wasteful operational processes (e.g. using electric hand
dryers over paper towels to reduce the amount of paper
waste).

he reuse of waste and non-waste materials as many

For example the reuse of sand, soil and concrete
mes as possible, to avoid any requirement to dispose of
aggregates as new feedstock for production processes.
ese items.
he reuse of waste and non-waste materials as many
For example the reuse of sand, soil and concrete
mes as possible, to avoid any requirement to dispose of
aggregates as new feedstock for production processes.
ese items.

Investment in recycling equipment/technology to

he recycling of waste materials into tradable process waste material into a form in which there is
mmodities (e.g. baled paper, shredded plastic) or the market demand for its re-use. e.g. shredding used
anufacturing of new-line items from heavily processed plastic bottles into plastic chips for re-sale into recycling
nd recycled products (e.g. extrusion). markets.

he recovery of energy or heat through controlled For example the adoption of biomass stoves or the use
urning, digestion or other processing of waste material. of industrial waste-to-energy plants.

Legal contracting of licensed waste transporters and

he sanitary dumping of waste at specially engineered dumpers, that provide clear evidence of dumping at
ndfills. approved, sanitary landfills (e.g. dumping receipts,
weigh bridge slips).
 you towards the waste
support tree below is
u find the most appropriate
ew and revisit these options
ase waste reduction, reuse

MPLES
d distribution partners to
material needed for
hnologies which result in less
ses (e.g. using electric hand
reduce the amount of paper

nd, soil and concrete

k for production processes.
uipment/technology to
a form in which there is
se. e.g. shredding used
hips for re-sale into recycling

f biomass stoves or the use

gy plants.

d waste transporters and

evidence of dumping at
(e.g. dumping receipts,
 MIXED PLASTIC WASTE HIERARCHY DECISION TREE

The tool provides in-depth guidance on how to reduce, reuse, recycle and safely dispose of various types
including PET, PP, HDPE and LDPE.

For information and guidance on hazardous plastic waste (e.g. chemical containers), please consult the

Below you will find the Decision Tree which will act as a map, directing you through the guidance con
questions presented in the Decision Tree, you can follow links to more detailed guidance by clicking on b
answer each question. The tool is designed so that you can explore best practice options for managing m
with the least harmful (best option). You can skip sections of the guidance if you have a waste managem
you require further information.

DECISION TREE - MIXED PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEME

Does the Company produce mixed plastic waste NO Refer to the waste stream
(e.g. PET, HDPE, PP, PVC)?
visual classification on the
'Homepage' tab
Refer to 'Mixed Plastics' diagram (right)

YES

NO
Are you aware of current legal requirements to
Refer to 'Legislation' tab
managing mixed plastic waste in your country?

YES

NO Refer to 'Reduce' tab

Have you explored any waste minimisation
options for plastic waste? Investigate various options
available.

YES

YES Refer to 'Reuse' tab

Is the plastic waste still in good condition e.g.
plastic bottles in one piece and have not been in
Could you reuse mixed plastic
contact with hazardous materials ?
waste in its current form?

NO

NO Refer to 'Reuse' tab

Are you able to sell or give away

the waste for immediate reuse i.e.
to other firms or organisations?

NO Is there any demand from other

Do you use any type of plastic as a raw input in
firms or organisations for
your operations e.g. in your manufacturing
processes? processed waste plastics that you
generate?
 Is there any demand from other
Do you use any type of plastic as a raw input in
firms or organisations for
your operations e.g. in your manufacturing
processes? processed waste plastics that you
generate?

YES YES

Refer to 'Recycling' tab

Can you invest in plastic processing technology to enable you to recycle plastic waste or, sell
to a third-party for recycling purposes?

NO

Refer to 'Recovery' tab

Is there an existing incineration facility that could process your plastic waste and are you
able to negotiate an arrangement/contract with the third-party incineration facility for your
plastic waste?

NO

Refer to 'Dispose' tab

Where available, prioritise dumping at a sanitary

landfills.

N.B.
If final disposal options are limited/
unsuitable please review options for
managing your waste.

Could you reduce, reuse or recycle more of

your waste?

ADDITIONAL DEFINITIONS (TERMINOLOGY)

The table below defines simple methods to differentiate various types of mixed plastic, using float separ
Further guidance can be sought from Chapter 2 of the Technology Transfer for Development (TOOL) Re

TOOL. Plastic Waste. 1995

Sub-Waste Type Float Separation Sub-Waste Type Burn

Yellow flame and green

PET, PVC, PS, OTHER Sinks PET, PVC, PS, OTHER tip, ignites slowly,
softens and bubbles
 Blue flame and yellow
HDPE, LDPE, PP Floats HDPE, LDPE, PP
tip, ignites quickly

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF MIXED PLAST

Polyethylene
PET Clear, tough, solvent, resistant, softens at 80˚C, and sinks
Terephthalate

High Density Hard to semi-flexible, resistant to chemicals & moisture, waxy sur
HDPE
Polyethylene processed & formed, and floats

PVC Polyvinyl Chloride Strong, tough, can be clear, can be solvent, softens at 80˚C, and s

Low Density
LDPE Soft, flexible, waxy surface, translucent, softens at 70˚C, scratches
Polyethylene

PP Polypropylene Hard but still flexible, waxy surface, softens at 140˚C, translucent

PS Polystyrene Clear, glassy, rigid, opaque, semi-tough, softens at 95˚ C, affected by

solutions, flow water absorption, odour free, and sinks

Other Other plastics Includes all resins, properties depend on plastics or combination
HY DECISION TREE

y dispose of various types of mixed plastic waste,

ners), please consult the Hazardous (Chemical) tool.

hrough the guidance contained in the tool. As you follow the

guidance by clicking on boxes, depending on how you
e options for managing mixed plastic waste beginning
u have a waste management option or 'use case' for which

ASTE MANAGEMENT

to the waste stream

classification on the
Homepage' tab

to 'Legislation' tab

er to 'Reduce' tab

tigate various options

available.

er to 'Reuse' tab

ou reuse mixed plastic

e in its current form?

NO

fer to 'Reuse' tab

able to sell or give away

e for immediate reuse i.e.
firms or organisations?

any demand from other NO

s or organisations for
d waste plastics that you
generate?
 any demand from other
s or organisations for
d waste plastics that you
generate?

YES

ycle plastic waste or, sell

astic waste and are you

neration facility for your

NS (TERMINOLOGY)

plastic, using float separation, burning and touch (film plastics only).
Development (TOOL) Report on Plastic Waste below:

Waste. 1995

Burn Sub-Waste Type Touch (films)

Soft, smooth and

ellow flame and green
stretches (e.g. sandwich
tip, ignites slowly, LDPE (films)
wrap, luggage
softens and bubbles
wrapping).
 Rougher surface. Makes
Blue flame and yellow
HDPE, PP (films) a crisp and crinkly
tip, ignites quickly
sound when handled.

CS OF MIXED PLASTICS

t 80˚C, and sinks

cals & moisture, waxy surface, opaque, softens at 75˚C, easily coloured,

nt, softens at 80˚C, and sinks

softens at 70˚C, scratches easily, and floats

ens at 140˚C, translucent, withstands solvents, versatile, and floats

softens at 95˚ C, affected by fat, acids & solvents but resistant to alkalis & salt
d sinks

plastics or combination of plastics

 LEGISLATION
The following resource outlines general laws and regulations for managing non-hazardous waste.

Geographies with available legal guidance:

Africa: Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania

Asia: India, Bangladesh

Please be advised that all laws and regulations of countries not included in this document should be res

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

General Legislative Masterplan &

Frameworks Strategy Policy
TION
n-hazardous waste.

document should be researched by the user of this toolkit.

RESOURCES

Masterplan &
Strategy Policy
 WASTE TYPE CONSIDE

WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

PET products are normally designed and manufactured for one-time, single con
industries, leading to higher waste production levels and more severe environm

All sectors: If the company provides on-site shops or unmanned vending mach
PET
eliminate the sale of PET products.

Manufacturing sector: Where PET plastic is used for packaging of products or

alternative materials such as paper, PP or HDPE or completely designin

HDPE

HDPE and PP products are normally bought in wholesale form (e.g. a restauran
cooking oil, kitchen soap) or bought directly my staff members for either person

All sectors: If the company uses products who's packaging is made of these mat
with the distributors to refill or exchange containers via a deposit scheme,
produced by the distributer and the user.

Alternatively, where possible, consider new suppliers of the same product t

environmentally friendly materials.

Manufacturing sector: Where such materials are used for packaging of product
consider alternative materials such as paper or completely designing ou
 HDPE and PP products are normally bought in wholesale form (e.g. a restauran
cooking oil, kitchen soap) or bought directly my staff members for either person

All sectors: If the company uses products who's packaging is made of these mat
with the distributors to refill or exchange containers via a deposit scheme,
produced by the distributer and the user.

Alternatively, where possible, consider new suppliers of the same product t

environmentally friendly materials.

Manufacturing sector: Where such materials are used for packaging of product
consider alternative materials such as paper or completely designing ou

Where these material are a major component of the product (i.e. construction m
development (R&D) of new material is too high, consider reducing waste o
process.
PP

Construction sector: If the company relies on products that are predominately

PVC materials, consider alternatives. If alternatives are not available, ensure that the
system in place to ensure that no material is wasted during construction.
 All sectors: Such plastics (e.g. plastic bags) are normally designed and manufac
and should be avoided wherever possible. A wide range of alternatives for the b
boxes, to paper bags, are available in local markets and should have a lower env

If the company uses products whose packaging is made of these materials, it sh

distributors to refill or exchange containers via a deposit scheme, thus red
distributer and the user.
LDPE
Where such waste is generated by the company's employees, consider opportun
issues associated with these plastics.

Manufacturing sector: Where such plastics are used for packaging of products
consider alternative materials such as paper or completely designing ou

All sectors: such plastics are normally used where restuarants, canteens or othe
site.

If the company operates these facilities, it should consider phasing out any su
PS
Where such waste is generated by the company's employees, consider opportun
issues associated with these plastics.

Manufacturing sector: Where such plastics are used for packaging of products
consider alternative materials such as paper or completely designing ou

ADDITION
 WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS: REDUCE

NSIDERATIONS

ured for one-time, single consumer use by food and beverage

s and more severe environmental impacts.

r unmanned vending machines, explore opportunities to reduce or

r packaging of products or even producing certain items, consider

E or completely designing out the need for such materials.

lesale form (e.g. a restaurant or hotel making bulk purchases of

f members for either personal or operational use.

kaging is made of these materials, it should explore opportunities

ners via a deposit scheme, thus reducing the overall waste

liers of the same product that are packaged using other, more

ed for packaging of products or even producing certain products,

completely designing out the need for these materials.
lesale form (e.g. a restaurant or hotel making bulk purchases of
f members for either personal or operational use.

kaging is made of these materials, it should explore opportunities

ners via a deposit scheme, thus reducing the overall waste

liers of the same product that are packaged using other, more

ed for packaging of products or even producing certain products,

completely designing out the need for these materials.

product (i.e. construction material), if the cost of research and

nsider reducing waste of this material from the manufacturing

cts that are predominately manufactured from any of these

ot available, ensure that there is a strategic waste management
during construction.
mally designed and manufactured for one-time, single consumer use
nge of alternatives for the bundling or packaging of products, from
and should have a lower environmental impact.

ade of these materials, it should explore opportunities with the

a deposit scheme, thus reducing the overall waste produced by the

mployees, consider opportunities to raise awareness of the

d for packaging of products or even producing certain products,

completely designing out the need for such materials.

estuarants, canteens or other food and beverage facilities exist on

nsider phasing out any such materials and find alternatives.

mployees, consider opportunities to raise awareness of the

d for packaging of products or even producing certain items,

completely designing out the need for such materials.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
None
 STEP-BY-STEP ACTION GUIDANCE

1. Conduct an audit of the source and volume of mixed plastics

produced and/or used across the company, and divide these by
polymer type (see Decision Tree section for more details).

2. If such materials are a major component of the item that the

company is producing, explore replacement materials (either harder
polymers or non-plastics).

3. If products containing such materials are purchased for day-to-day

operations or sold on site, explore opportunities of using different
products with less or no PET plastic. Where there is an opportunity to
refill these by the distributor, consider this as an option.

4. If the plastic is used for packaging items, explore replacement

materials (either harder polymers or non-plastics) or completely
designing out its use.

5. In all instances, review existing contracts and orders with current

service & material providers. Determine whether current purchase
and supplier channels can be phased out or tailored to more
sustainable and durable plastics.

1. Conduct an audit of the source and volume of mixed plastics

produced and/or used across the company, and divide these by
polymer type (see Decision Tree section for more details).

2. If products containing plastic are purchased for day-to-day

operations or sold on site, explore opportunities of using different
products with less or no HDPE/PP plastic. Where there is an
opportunity to refill these by the distributor, consider this as an
option.

3. If the plastic is used for packaging of items, explore replacement

materials (non-plastics) or completely designing out its use.

4. Ensure the implementation of a strategic waste management

system that monitors the amount of plastic used on site but also
polymer type (see Decision Tree section for more details).

2. If products containing plastic are purchased for day-to-day

operations or sold on site, explore opportunities of using different
products with less or no HDPE/PP plastic. Where there is an
opportunity to refill these by the distributor, consider this as an
option.

3. If the plastic is used for packaging of items, explore replacement

materials (non-plastics) or completely designing out its use.

4. Ensure the implementation of a strategic waste management

system that monitors the amount of plastic used on site but also
ensures that no material is wasted during any processes (including
construction phase or manufacturing if applicable).

5. In all instances, review existing contracts and orders with current

service & material providers. Determine whether current purchase
and supplier channels can be phased out or tailored to more
sustainable and durable plastics.

1. Conduct an audit of the source and volume of PVC used across the
company, dividing them by polymer (see Decision Tree section for
more details).

2. Ensure the implementation of a strategic waste management

system that monitors the amount of PVC used but also ensures that
no material is wasted during any processes (including construction
phase or manufacturing if applicable).

3. Determine whether there is an opportunity to reduce and replace

the use of PVC by sourcing alternative products of similar or
enhanced quality.

4. In all instances, review existing contracts and orders with current

service & material providers. Determine whether current purchase
and supplier channels can be phased out or tailored to more
sustainable and durable plastics.
1. Conduct an audit of the source and volume of mixed plastics
produced and/or used across the company, dividing them by polymer
(see Decision Tree section for more details).

2. If products containing this material are purchased for day-to-day

operations or sold on site, explore opportunities of using different
products with less or no LDPE plastic.

3. If such material is used for packaging of projects, explore

replacement materials (non-plastics) or completely designing out its
use.

4. In all instances, review existing contracts and orders with current

service & material providers. Determine whether current purchase
and supplier channels can be phased out or tailored to more
sustainable and durable plastics.

1. Conduct an audit of the source and volume of mixed plastics

produced and/or used across the company, dividing them by polymer
(see Decision Tree section for more details).

2. If products containing this material are purchased for day-to-day

operations or sold on site, explore opportunities of using different
products.

3. Determine whether current purchase and supplier channels can be

phased out or tailored to reuse/refill based containers.
 WASTE TYPE CONSIDERAT

WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

All sectors: while PET is not normally durable enough to be used over a long time peri
within short periods to hold household liquids (e.g. drinking water, cooking oil, ha
PET
NOTE: if the container has previously contained a hazardous material (chemical e
use unless treated/cleaned in an approved way. Please reference the Hazardous (Chem

HDPE

HDPE and PP products are normally heavy-duty, durable plastics that can be easily
quantities of useful products (e.g. water reserves, sand, oils).

NOTE: if the container has previously contained a hazardous material (chemical e

use unless treated/cleaned in an approved way. lease reference the Hazardous (Chemi

PP

LDPE

Such plastics s (e.g. plastic bags) cannot easily be reused and pose significant ri
PS managed properly. These plastics take years to break-down naturally and may leach h
environment posing a significant risk to public health.

PVC

ADDITIONAL R

None
 WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS: REUSE

NSIDERATIONS

gh to be used over a long time period, PET products can be reused

e.g. drinking water, cooking oil, hand soap).

hazardous material (chemical etc) is may be unsuitable for re-

ase reference the Hazardous (Chemical) tool for further guidance.

urable plastics that can be easily reused for carrying higher

es, sand, oils).

hazardous material (chemical etc) is may be unsuitable for re-

e reference the Hazardous (Chemical) tool for further guidance.

reused and pose significant risks to the environment when not

k-down naturally and may leach harmful chemicals into the
h.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

None
 STEP-BY-STEP ACTION GUIDANCE

1. Conduct an audit of the source and volume of mixed plastics

produced and/or used across the company, and divide these by
polymer type (see Decision Tree section for more details).

2. Determine whether used plastic containers (e.g. bottles) can

be reused, at scale, as an alternative for procured plastic
containers.

3. Promote the reuse of plastic waste among employees to be

used as informal containers (for non-hazardous/corrosive
liquids) or for arts and crafts projects .

4. Explore the opportunity for the company to transition to

suppliers that generate less overall waste (e.g. glass bottling via
deposit scheme, in place of PET plastic bottles).

5. Where such plastic cannot be reused internally, explore

third-party buyers, or in the case of arts and crafts projects,
give as donations.

1. Set up a collection point for the storage of clean plastic bags,

that can be easily reused by employees or work with the
informal sector to identify secondary uses.

2. Promote the use of plastic bags and film plastics for arts and
crafts projects (e.g. weaving baskets).
 WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS: RE

WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

All sectors: PET products that are processed or recycled in high volumes (over one me
value from domestic and international recycling markets. Due to the lightweight natur
bottles, containers) and the high proportion of air within the containers, recycling vi
PET plastics is the most recommended processing/recycling activity which would ad

To recycle the material please follow the instructions below:

PET
1. Initial upgrading – cleaning (i.e. washing and drying) and sorting;
2. Size reduction techniques – through cutting, shredding and agglomeration;
3. Further processing techniques:
a. Pelletizing – suitable for all rigid plastics;
b. Product manufacturing via extrusion, injection moulding, blow moulding and fil
of high quality)

All sectors: HDPE/PP hard plastic products that are processed or recycled in high vol
attract significant value from domestic and international recycling markets. Due to the
moulds (e.g. plastic jerry cans, containers) and the high proportion of high proportion
HDPE recycling via crushing and shredding HDPE or PP plastics is the most recom
activity.

To recycle the material please follow the instructions below:

1. Initial upgrading – cleaning (i.e. washing and drying) and sorting;

2. Size reduction techniques – through cutting, shredding and agglomeration;
3. Further processing techniques:
PP a. Pelletizing – suitable for all rigid plastics;
b. Product manufacturing via extrusion, injection moulding, blow moulding and fil
of high quality)

LDPE All sectors: Where recycling activities do take place, film plastics are normally ba
and payloads, when transported.

To recycle the material please follow the instructions below:

1. Initial upgrading – cleaning (i.e. washing and drying) and sorting;

2. Size reduction techniques – through cutting and shredding;
3. Further processing techniques:
a. Pelletizing – suitable for all rigid plastics;
b. Product manufacturing for example via film blowing (only when pellets are of hig
 All sectors: Where recycling activities do take place, film plastics are normally ba
and payloads, when transported.

To recycle the material please follow the instructions below:

1. Initial upgrading – cleaning (i.e. washing and drying) and sorting;

2. Size reduction techniques – through cutting and shredding;
3. Further processing techniques:
a. Pelletizing – suitable for all rigid plastics;
PS b. Product manufacturing for example via film blowing (only when pellets are of hig

All sectors: PVC compounds are 100% recyclable. After separation and treatment
can be reprocessed using various techniques (granulated or powder) and reused in the

To recycle the material please follow the instructions below:

PVC 1. Initial upgrading – cleaning (i.e. washing and drying) and sorting;
2. Size reduction techniques – through cutting, shredding and agglomeration;
3. Further processing techniques:
a. Pelletizing – suitable for all rigid plastics;
b. Product manufacturing via extrusion, injection moulding, blow moulding and fil
of high quality)

ADDITIONAL RESOUR

Where formal waste collection systems do not exist, informal sector recycling waste facilities should be
informal recycling waste facility

RECYCLING TECHNIQ

INTERNATIONAL MARKET
PLASTICS (2017)
The following table provides a high-level 2017 breakdown on average tra
Waste Type Processing Level

PET Plastic Unprocessed

PET Plastic Baled

PET Plastic Flakes

PET Plastic Granules/Pellets

HDPE Plastic Unprocessed

HDPE Plastic Regrind/Flakes

HDPE Plastic Pellets

PP Plastic Unprocessed

PP Plastic Regrind/Flakes

PP Plastic Pellets

LDPE Film
Baled
Plastic
LDPE Film
Pellets
Plastic
 TYPE CONSIDERATIONS: RECYCLING

NSIDERATIONS

cled in high volumes (over one metric tonne) can attract significant
rkets. Due to the lightweight nature of plastic moulds (e.g. plastic
ithin the containers, recycling via crushing and shredding
/recycling activity which would add value to the waste material.

s below:

ing) and sorting;

dding and agglomeration;

moulding, blow moulding and film blowing (only when pellets are

e processed or recycled in high volumes (over one metric tonne) can

ional recycling markets. Due to the lightweight nature of plastic
high proportion of high proportion of air within the containers,
or PP plastics is the most recommended value addition/recycling

ructions below:

ing) and sorting;

dding and agglomeration;

moulding, blow moulding and film blowing (only when pellets are

film plastics are normally baled, to improve volume efficiency

ructions below:

ing) and sorting;

shredding;

owing (only when pellets are of high quality)

 film plastics are normally baled, to improve volume efficiency

ructions below:

ing) and sorting;

shredding;

owing (only when pellets are of high quality)

fter separation and treatment to eliminate impurities, it

lated or powder) and reused in the production.

ructions below:

ing) and sorting;

dding and agglomeration;

moulding, blow moulding and film blowing (only when pellets are

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

ecycling waste facilities should be approached. The document below outlines how companies can engage an

Engaging the
informal sector

RECYCLING TECHNIQUES

INTERNATIONAL MARKET PRICING

PLASTICS (2017)
vel 2017 breakdown on average trade prices per mt of popular plastic sub-typologies.
Price (Low)

250

450

600

900

240

800

920

260

840

960

480

1280
 STEP-BY-STEP ACTION GUIDANCE

1. Identify and contact third-party crusher or

baler operators within your area, to determine
the possibility and potential costs and
arrangements of using a third-party technology
processing solution.

2. Determine the relevance and demand for in-

house technology solutions.
ment below outlines how companies can engage an

ular plastic sub-typologies.

Price (High)

400

550

800

1200

260

840

980

280

920

1050

600

1520
 WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS: RECOVERY (WA

WASTE TYPE CONSIDERATIONS

PET

HDPE

All sectors: WtE & Incineration is under rare cases, selected as a disposal option
developing countries for disposing of plastic waste. Companies should review redu
and reuse options prior to proceeding and carefully consider the guidance below.
PP
Environmental: WtE and Incineration of plastic waste types is normally a
hazardous and dirty waste management practice (e.g. release of harmful air
pollutants). Only under certain conditions will incineration result in low
environmental impact - i.e. low emissions that result from incineration under
controlled conditions and very high temperatures using approved technology.

Economic: The potential economic returns of incinerating waste as a fuel or hea

source remain low where inappropriate technology is used to incinerate waste i.e.
incineration systems that are incapable of capturing, storing, and distributing ene
LDPE
recovered from the burning of waste.

Social: The incineration of non-hazardous waste prevents sustainable and clean,

reuse and recycling options that, in turn, create job opportunities.
 incineration systems that are incapable of capturing, storing, and distributing ene
recovered from the burning of waste.

Social: The incineration of non-hazardous waste prevents sustainable and clean,

reuse and recycling options that, in turn, create job opportunities.

PS

PVC

ADDITIONAL RESOURCE
None
 CONSIDERATIONS: RECOVERY (WASTE-TO-ENERGY)

SIDERATIONS

nder rare cases, selected as a disposal option in

plastic waste. Companies should review reduce
g and carefully consider the guidance below.

tion of plastic waste types is normally a

ent practice (e.g. release of harmful air
tions will incineration result in low
sions that result from incineration under
emperatures using approved technology.

returns of incinerating waste as a fuel or heating

ate technology is used to incinerate waste i.e.
ble of capturing, storing, and distributing energy

rdous waste prevents sustainable and clean,

urn, create job opportunities.
ble of capturing, storing, and distributing energy

rdous waste prevents sustainable and clean,

urn, create job opportunities.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
None
(WASTE-TO-ENERGY)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Note: there is NO Step-by-Step Action Guidance for this section.

Incineration of plastic waste is a task that requires comprehensive

knowledge and skill in respect of chemistry, thermal engineering and
environmental engineering. Therefore where incineration is seen as
the sole option for safe disposal, companies should seek to approach
and partner with companies that operate in-house incineration with or
without energy recovery options. Firms that use incinerators may
include: construction and demolition companies (e.g. cement and clay
production), ports (e.g. airports, container ports) and hospitals / large
clinics. The company should ensure that it has consent from the
relevant authorities - local government, government agency
responsible for regulating waste disposal and management.

When approaching centralised incinerator facilities, such as

those detailed above, it is important to determine whether
the incineration technology being used is adequate to ensure
the proper breakdown of toxic, hazardous substances that
may be contained in the mixed plastic waste. According to
EU and US-EPA best practice, and to ensure safe and
controlled burning, incineration plants should ensure that
their flue gases reach a temperature of between 800C -
1200C. Common incinerator types that could be used for the
incineration of mixed plastic waste at these temperatures
include: rotary kilns; fluidised bed units; liquid injection
units; or fixed hearth units.

If your company has reason to believe through discussions

with the incinerator operators that unsafe incineration
practices are being carried out (i.e. open burning) or the
high temperatures above are not being met or you have
doubts around the safety / integrity of incineration
procedures - consider other safe disposal options for your
mixed plastic waste.
 controlled burning, incineration plants should ensure that
their flue gases reach a temperature of between 800C -
1200C. Common incinerator types that could be used for the
incineration of mixed plastic waste at these temperatures
include: rotary kilns; fluidised bed units; liquid injection
units; or fixed hearth units.

If your company has reason to believe through discussions

with the incinerator operators that unsafe incineration
practices are being carried out (i.e. open burning) or the
high temperatures above are not being met or you have
doubts around the safety / integrity of incineration
procedures - consider other safe disposal options for your
mixed plastic waste.

RCES
 DISPOSE: DUMPSITE / LANDFILL TY
The management or disposal of mixed plastic waste at landfills or dumpsites is not recomm
reduce, reuse, or recycle plastic waste before considering disposal at a dumpsite or landfill.

Plastics are estimated to take between 500 - 1000 years to biodegrade, during which time they will release
environment. Plastic also degrades into 'micro-flakes', a state that poses greater threats to animal, water an
- and in the event that there is no reuse or recycling potential - it should be disposed of safely at an approp
developing world, exacerbates the environmental and public health impact of plastics.

Where companies contract third parties for disposal services, it is strongly recommended that the compan
disposal activities. Specific documentation and records that companies can request from their service prov

• Copies of the transportation dumping or waste operators license that a waste contractor must normally m

• Copies of official dumping slips that a waste contractor will normally receive from a municipal authority
information that can help companies to understand the quantity of waste they are disposing of as well as a
been dumped at an official and publicly managed site).

TYPE OF LANDFILL

You should understand the differences between the various types of dumpsites or landfills that may be ope
despose your waste. The table below outlines key defining characteristics of each type of dumpsite/landfill
landfill, listed first:

A sanitary landfill is the safest disposal facility available as this is where waste is isolated
biologically, chemically and physically. In practice what this means that the site must me

1) Full or partial isolation of waste from the surrounding soil/groundwater;

2) Have been formally 'engineered';
3) Be permanently controlled by staff based at the landfill;
4) Waste should be placed, compacted and covered to minimise exposure and make it less

You should at all costs avoid dumping your waste at facilities listed in the orange or red rows of the table
in risk to environmental or public health. If you are unsure what type of dumpsite is located close to you, y
For further more detailed guidance, see the link below:

GIZ. Operator Models - Dispo

 OPERATION & LEACHATE
DUMPSITE / LANDFILL
ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT

Registration and placement/

compaction of waste; uses daily Containment and
cover and closure; proper leachate treatment (often
Sanitary landfill
siting, infrastructure; liner and biological and physical-
leachate treatment in place and chemical treatment).
post- closure plan.

Registration and placement/

Contaminant and some
compaction of waste; uses daily
level of leachate
Engineered landfill / cover material; surface and
treatment; reduced
controlled landfill groundwater monitoring;
leachate volume through
infrastructure and liner in
waste cover.
place.

Registration and placement/

compaction of waste; surface Unrestricted contaminant
Controlled dumpsite
water monitoring; no release
engineering measures.

Few controls; some directed

Semi-controlled placement of waste; informal Unrestricted contaminant
dumpsite waste picking; no engineering release
measures.

No controls; informal waste

Uncontrolled Unrestricted contaminant
picking; no engineering
dumpsite release
measures.

COUNTRY SPECIFIC GUIDA

Examples of different types of landfills and dumpsites available in Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, Ken
environmental risks are provided below. Further information and guidance on dumpsites globally can also
Atlas is highlighted as a useful resource for determining the legal and environmental status of dumpsites a
themselves.

D-WASTE. WASTE ATLA

Online link to the atlas (click h

DESCRIPTION OF DISPOSAL SITES IN SEL

 DUMPSITE / LANDFILL TYPE GUIDANCE
r dumpsites is not recommended except as a last resort. Attempts should have been made to
al at a dumpsite or landfill.

ng which time they will release the harmful and toxic chemicals used during their production, into the
eater threats to animal, water and land resources. As such, to minimise risk to environmental and public health
disposed of safely at an appropriate dumpsite/landfill. The lack of sanitary engineered landfills in the
of plastics.

recommended that the company request or take initiative to build a clear and consistent paper record on
request from their service providers include:

aste contractor must normally maintain and renew with their respective environmental authority.

ive from a municipal authority upon entering the dumpsite or landfill. These slips normally include weight
hey are disposing of as well as an official stamp from the municipal authority (confirming that the waste has

TYPE OF LANDFILL

ites or landfills that may be operating in your city/country to help you reach an informed decision on where to
each type of dumpsite/landfill/disposal facility with the most environmentally friendly option, sanitary

s is where waste is isolated from the environment until it is safe i.e. completely degraded
means that the site must meet four basic conditions:

roundwater;

exposure and make it less accessible to pests and vermin.

range or red rows of the table below as the environmental impact of doing so will be greater and likely result
mpsite is located close to you, you should use the definition of 'physical characteristics' to help you confirm.

GIZ. Operator Models - Disposal

 RECOMMENDATI
LANDFILL GAS MANAGEMENT
ON

Use only where

Flaring or utilisation with or reduce, reuse and
without energy recovery recycling options are
unfeasible.

Use only where

reduce, reuse and
Passive ventilation or flaring
recycling options are
unfeasible.

Avoid entirely if
possible, this is a
None hazardous &
unsanitary method
for waste disposal.

Avoid entirely if
possible, this is a
None hazardous &
unsanitary method
for waste disposal.

Avoid entirely if
possible, this is a
None hazardous &
unsanitary method
for waste disposal.

COUNTRY SPECIFIC GUIDANCE

a, Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, Kenya, India and Bangladesh and how businesses should act in respect of legal and
on dumpsites globally can also be found in the following database managed by D-Waste. While the Waste
onmental status of dumpsites and landfills, companies should assess and verify dumpsites and landfills

D-WASTE. WASTE ATLAS

Online link to the atlas (click here)

OF DISPOSAL SITES IN SELECTED COUNTRIES

Document
t resort. Attempts should have been made to

emicals used during their production, into the

h, to minimise risk to environmental and public health
The lack of sanitary engineered landfills in the

e to build a clear and consistent paper record on

heir respective environmental authority.

ite or landfill. These slips normally include weight

municipal authority (confirming that the waste has

ry to help you reach an informed decision on where to

most environmentally friendly option, sanitary

nt until it is safe i.e. completely degraded

ns:

d vermin.

ntal impact of doing so will be greater and likely result

ion of 'physical characteristics' to help you confirm.
 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Fencing, demarcation around perimeter of

landfill
• Flood management infrastructure (e.g.
drainage canals)
• Energy recovery or methane mitigation
(e.g. flaring, WtE)
• Weighbridge and administration (e.g.
office, security)

• Fencing, demarcation around perimeter of

dumpsite
• Weighbridge and dumpsite administration
(e.g. security)

• Few controls; some directed placement of

waste; informal waste picking; no
engineering measures.
 and how businesses should act in respect of legal and
g database managed by D-Waste. While the Waste
hould assess and verify dumpsites and landfills
 KEY MARKET ACTORS
The following table provides a selection of high-level public and private sector actors working within the w
India.

Key Market Actors (Geography: W

City Actor Actor Type Duties
Lagos Waste
Municipal Licensing, contracting, municipal
Lagos Management
Government by laws
Authority

West Africa Operator of largest materials

Lagos Corporate
ENRG recovery facility

SME performing waste collection

and recycling solutions to small
Lagos Wecyclers SME
businesses and informal
residential properties

SME performing waste collection

and recycling solutions to small
Lagos RecyclePoints SME
businesses and informal
residential properties

National government authority

responsible for enforcement and
Abuja NESREA Government
oversight of legislative
frameworks.

Dedicated collection networks for

e-waste, registers and supports
Lagos Sunray Ventures SME informal value chain participants
and develops processing facilities
for the collected e-waste

Key Market Actors (Geography: E

 City Actor Actor Type Duties

Recycling services to large waste

Dar es Salaam The Recycler SME
producers (hotels, industries)

Dar es Salaam Nipe Fagio SME Advocacy and policy guidance

Support to civil society and

Dar es Salaam BORDA NGO
informal sector waste collectors

Management of public waste

Dar es Salaam Municipal
Dar es Salaam collection services, infrastructure
City Council Government
and enforcement of bylaws

National authority responsible for

enforcing national environmental
legislation and approving
Dar es Salaam NEMA Government
relevant permits and
environmental permissions (e.g.
EIAs).

Bespoke waste management for

Dar es Salaam Phenix Recycling SME
businesses

Environmentally safe and secure

Nairobi EnviroServe SME
recycling services

Offers environmentally friendly

recycling services to the general
Nairobi WEEE Centre SME public, business, learning
institutions, government offices
and NGOs.
 Provide a safe disposal option
Nairobi EWIK NGO across the country through our
networks

Collects and recycles waste paper

Kamongo Waste across Eastern Africa. Provide
Nairobi SME
Paper door to door transport services all
over Kenya.

Key Market Actors (Geography

City Actor Actor Type Duties

Coordination of the Safai Sena

New Delhi Chintan NGO, Cooperative
Waste Pickers Cooperative

Advocacy, policy guidance and

New Delhi HRA eWaste Civil Society direct safe disposal services for
electronic waste.

Enable responsible disposal of

Mumbai RESPOSE SME different types of waste through
enviro-clean recycling methods

Provides end-to-end seamlessly

Mumbai Ecoreco SME integrated solution for e-waste
management

Key Market Actors - Operate from outsi

City Actor Actor Type Duties
 Supports the management of e-
waste, secondary resources and
Weybridge Sofies SME
urban mining and municipal and
industrial waste.

Global Off-Grid Lighting

Utrecht GOGLA SME
Association
MARKET ACTORS
tors working within the waste management and recycling sector in West Africa, East Africa and

ors (Geography: West Africa)

Contact Post Department Telephone/Email

Bode Fanamo HoD R&D +2348033857271

Material Recovery
Paul O'Callaghan CEO +2348159197600
Facility

Bilikiss Adebiyi Recyclable Materials

CEO +2348188218217
Abiola Collection

Recyclable Materials
Alison Ukonu CEO +2347064064744
Collection

Miranda Amachree Director Waste Management +2348033222205

Christian Wessels Director Circular Economy christian.h.wessels@gmail.com

ors (Geography: East Africa)

 Contact Post Department Telephone/Email

Matthew Haden Director Recycling +255788241137

Tania Hamilton Director Advocacy +255767708088

Larissa Duma Director Management +255783292770

Municipal Cleaning &

Richard Mbaku Director +2557133241615
Infrastructure

Environmental
Rajabu Ngoda Director Permitting & +255713568435
Enforcement

Athina
Director Waste Management athina@phenixrecycling.com
Kriakopoulou

+254 735 617 057

Shaun Mumford Director Technical Department
shaun@enviroserve.co.ke

Seth Munyambu Manager E-Waste Management seth@weeecentre.com'+254 20 2060919.

 Lawrence Thuo Director E-Waste Management +254782969219

Social Media Paper waste

Daniel Khaoya info@kamongo.co.ke+25420555240 +2542055326
Manager Management

Actors (Geography: India)

Contact Post Department Telephone/email

Programme
Chintan Purohit Waste Management +911146574171
Manager

Electronic Waste
Shashi Bhushan Director +919968413109
Management

+919594312506
Electronic Waste
DB Prabhu Director prabhu.db@resposeindia.co
Management
m

Electronic Waste
B.K. Soni Director +9118001021020bksoni@ecoreco.com
Management

Operate from outside these regions

Contact Post Department Telephone/email
 +41 22 338 15 24
Managing
Federico Magalini Waste Management federico.magalini@sofiesgro
Director
up.com

Programme +31 304 100 914

Drew Corbyn Sustainability
Manager d.corbyn@gogla.org