The "2022 Full-Scale Waste Composition Study" conducted by Dillon Consulting for Metro Vancouver examined waste composition across different sectors—Single-Family (SF), Multi-Family (MF), Commercial/Institutional (CI), and Small Loads (SL). Samples were taken at four facilities, analyzing various waste types including compostable and non-compostable organics, plastics, paper, and single-use items (SUIs). The study revealed compostable organics as the largest component, particularly in SF and MF sectors, while CI and SL sectors had significant construction and demolition waste. Historical data indicated shifts in waste patterns, with non-compostable organics rising in recent years. Findings support Metro Vancouver’s initiatives for waste reduction, recycling, and the effective management of functional waste categories. Limitations included weighing inaccuracies and weather-related sample variations.
The report on reducing methane emissions from Canada’s municipal solid waste landfills details the ECCC's 2022 public consultations to address the greenhouse gas impact of landfill emissions. Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas produced by decomposing organic material in landfills, significantly contributes to climate change.
This mini-review highlights technological advancements in waste classification and management, focusing on sensor-based systems, AI-driven solutions, and IoT integration. Sensors like moisture and inductive types classify waste into categories but face limitations in accuracy and maintenance. AI models, particularly CNNs like ResNet and MobileNet, provide superior precision and adaptability using datasets like TrashNet. IoT-enabled systems with real-time monitoring and route optimization algorithms improve collection efficiency. While AI offers scalable solutions, challenges like data scarcity and high costs underscore the need for better datasets and infrastructure to enhance waste management.
The report on municipal solid waste (MSW) in British Columbia (1990–2022) highlights a decline in per capita waste disposal to 479 kg in 2022, down 90 kg since 2012. B.C. disposed of 2.6 million tonnes of waste in 2022, with opportunities for increased recycling and composting. Provincial initiatives like the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan and organics diversion programs have driven reductions, but regional differences in disposal rates persist due to varying infrastructure and population density. Continued efforts focus on waste reduction and sustainable management.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) piloted "Oscar," an AI-powered smart waste bin by Intuitive AI, to enhance waste sorting. Using machine learning and a 32-inch screen, Oscar guides users on recycling, composting, and landfill disposal. This initiative aligns with YVR’s environmental goals, boosting waste diversion rates and engaging travelers in sustainability. In 2018, YVR exceeded its 2020 target with a 51% terminal waste diversion rate, showcasing innovative waste management through technology.
(Source: YVR News)
The report on municipal solid waste (MSW) in British Columbia (1990–2022) highlights a decline in per capita waste disposal to 479 kg in 2022, down 90 kg since 2012. B.C. disposed of 2.6 million tonnes of waste in 2022, with opportunities for increased recycling and composting. Provincial initiatives like the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan and organics diversion programs have driven reductions, but regional differences in disposal rates persist due to varying infrastructure and population density. Continued efforts focus on waste reduction and sustainable management.
(Source: CBC News)
The investigation into UBC’s outdoor organic waste stations revealed an average contamination rate of 10.22%, surpassing the 5% threshold, with common contaminants like plastic cutlery and coffee cups stemming from user confusion. Contamination varied by location, with busier areas showing higher rates. Ineffective signage and limited user knowledge were key issues, prompting recommendations for clearer labeling, better bin distribution, and educational initiatives like outreach and visual demonstrations. These measures aim to reduce contamination and support UBC’s Zero Waste goals.
The EcoSchools Canada guide outlines strategies for effective school waste management, noting that 50% of school landfill waste could be recycled or composted, with food waste accounting for 23%. Key practices include conducting waste audits, implementing three-stream systems with clear signage, providing education, and integrating waste management into curricula. Challenges like infrastructure gaps and participation barriers can be addressed with incentives and accessible waste stations. Schools play a vital role in reducing waste and fostering environmental awareness through community engagement and sustainable practices.
Organic waste, especially food leftovers, harms the environment by producing methane in landfills, contaminating groundwater, degrading air quality, and attracting pests. Composting missed waste could enhance soil health, but Canada’s infrastructure needs improvement to fully meet sustainability goals. In 2019, 4.83 million tonnes of organic waste were processed, yet more efforts are essential to minimize environmental impact.
Food waste harms the environment, especially in landfills where it emits VOCs like methane, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide. These gases vary by waste type—for instance, meat releases ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, while fruits emit ethanol. Detecting these gases helps manage food waste, supporting sustainability and proper disposal practices.