A cost evaluation method for transferring municipalities to solid waste source-separated system.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Waste Management
• Public Policy

Background:

• Landfilling is the primary waste disposal method in Israel, depleting land resources and posing environmental and health risks.
• Effective waste management strategies are needed to mitigate these challenges and promote sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the financial costs associated with municipal solid waste source separation implementation in Israel.
• To develop a cost-assessment model for policymakers to guide funding for waste source separation programs.

Main Methods:

• Data on operational costs for solid waste source separation systems were collected from 47 Israeli municipalities.
• A comprehensive database was compiled, incorporating factors like equipment, infrastructure, collection, and disposal costs.
• A cost-estimation model was developed, adaptable to specific municipal characteristics (size, region).

Main Results:

• The study presents a user-friendly tool for assessing the costs of implementing waste source separation.
• The developed model was successfully applied in Israel to determine eligibility for governmental grants for waste source separation initiatives.
• The findings provide a clear framework for understanding the financial investment required for source separation.

Conclusions:

• The cost-assessment model serves as a valuable tool for policymakers to effectively allocate funds for solid waste source separation.
• Implementing source separation is a key strategy for reducing landfill burden and enhancing recycling efficiency in Israel.
• The study facilitates informed decision-making to promote sustainable waste management practices nationwide.