Solid waste characterization and recycling potential for a university campus.
Integrated waste management systems are one of the greatest challenges for sustainable development. For these systems to be successful, the first step is to carry out waste characterization studies. In this paper are reported the results of a waste characterization study performed in the Campus Mexicali I of the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC). The aim of this study was to set the basis for implementation of a recovery, reduction and recycling waste management program at the campus. It was found that the campus Mexicali I produces 1ton of solid wastes per day; more than 65% of these wastes are recyclable or potentially recyclable. These results showed that a program for segregation and recycling is feasible on a University Campus. The study also showed that the local market for recyclable waste, under present conditions - number of recycling companies and amounts of recyclables accepted - can absorb all of these wastes. Some alternatives for the potentially recyclables wastes are discussed. Finally some strategies that could be used to reduce waste at the source are discussed as well.
Facultad de Ingeniería Ensenada, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Km. 103 Carretera Tijuana-Ensenada, Ensenada Baja California C.P. 22860, Mexico. carmijo@uabc.mx
Carolina
C
Armijo de Vega
Sara
S
Ojeda Benítez
Ma Elizabeth
ME
Ramírez Barreto
D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources / Q000379:methods*; D004787:Environmental Pollution / Q000517:prevention & control; D008800:Mexico; D012037:Refuse Disposal / Q000379:methods*; D014495:Universities / Q000458:organization & administration*