Sustainability Assessment of Single Stream and Multi-Stream Recycling
Channel: JMU ISAT
Date: 22/09/2018

Full Title: Sustainability Assessment of Single Stream and Multi-Stream Recycling
Presenters: Constantino Berradocco, Hannah Delawter, Thomas Putzu
Advised by: Hao Zhang
Sponsors: Harrisonburg Public Works Department, JMU Facilities Management
Abstract: There is an increasing trend by municipalities to move towards single stream systems for reducing material management costs, increasing recycling convenience and participation, and processing greater quantities of material. Research on evaluating sustainability of the two streams is very limited. In order to gain an in-depth understanding, this study intends to evaluate economic, environmental impact, and social impact of single waste recycling stream and the usual multi-stream collection system. The methodology follows the life cycle assessment method including (1) goal and scope definition: defining the goal, functional unit, and the system boundary of the two management streams, (2) life cycle inventory: collect material and energy data at the stages of collection, transport to transfer station, treatment at material recovery facilities, and end fates of wastes; (3) impact assessment: metrics are developed and quantified to assess economic, environmental and social impact; and (4) interpretation: result is examined using sensitivity analysis. As a case study, this research uses an American town as a case study. The study result contributes to the current knowledge on sustainability understanding of the two streams and is able to assist governmental decision making at all levels.