Thesis Abstract

Abstract

This project examines the environmental impacts of various solid waste management systems. Solid waste production is increasing globally as consumption rises, making effective waste management crucial from both environmental and economic perspectives. However, different waste management approaches—such as landfilling, incineration, composting and recycling—each have their own environmental tradeoffs. This study analyzes the life cycle impacts of five common solid waste management systems landfilling, incineration with energy recovery, mechanical biological treatment, anaerobic digestion, and zero waste. The global warming potential, air and water pollution, land usage, energy usage, and raw material impacts of each system are evaluated based on a review of relevant literature. The findings help identify high-impact pathways and opportunities for more sustainable waste management.

Thesis Overview