Carbon balance in municipal solid waste management--a case study of Nonthaburi municipality, Thailand.
OBJECTIVE
This research aimed to investigate the carbon equivalences associated with the unit processes of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) in Nonthaburi municipality. In addition, factors affecting MSWM's carbon-related activities were determined to find the reduction potential of carbon emissions into the atmosphere.


METHODS
Afield survey was conducted to quantify the amount of resources used in MSWM. Then, they were evaluated in terms of carbon equivalences occurring in the process scheme and categorized into carbon emissions, fixation and reduction,following a carbon-balanced model.


RESULTS
From carbon balance analysis of the base-line-scenario MSWM, the carbon emissions were found to be -2,374.56 MTCE/y, resulting in the average carbon unit of-22.98 kg CE/ton solid waste. The negative sign indicates a carbon reduction, instead of an emission,from this MSWM practice, which helps to reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of the model reveal that the highest contribution to carbon reduction potential in MSWM is recycling. Accordingly, it is strongly recommended that a policy promoting reuse, recovery, and recycling be pursued in every step of MSWM to assist in, not only extending landfill service life span, but also alleviating the increasing global warming problems.
Kampol
K
Nanthapong
Chongchin
C
Polprasert
D000397:Air Pollution / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002244:Carbon / Q000032:analysis*; D062611:Solid Waste / Q000032:analysis*; D013785:Thailand; D064091:Waste Disposal Facilities; D018505:Waste Management / Q000379:methods*
D062611:Solid Waste; D002244:Carbon