Description
This comprehensive study presents one of the most detailed U.S.-based life-cycle assessments (LCA) of municipal solid waste (MSW) curbside collection systems to date. Leveraging the Solid Waste Optimization Life-cycle Framework (SWOLF), the research evaluates the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and fossil energy impacts of four real-world collection configurations: landfill-only, landfill plus recycling, and two variations of landfill plus recycling and composting.
Key findings show that systems combining landfill gas-to-energy (LFGTE) infrastructure with single-stream recycling produce the greatest GHG and fossil energy reductions, outperforming higher-diversion composting strategies under current operating conditions. The research emphasizes the need for outcome-based metrics over diversion rate alone and presents clear implications for municipalities, regulators, and ESG strategists seeking optimized curbside programs aligned with climate and circular economy goals.
Read the full report here.
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