Solid waste composition analysis and recycling evaluation: Zaatari Syrian Refugees Camp, Jordan

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Waste Management
• Circular Economy

Background:

• Effective Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management requires accurate stream characterization.
• Recycling in refugee camps can provide employment and livelihoods for vulnerable populations.
• Zaatari Syrian Refugee Camp has hosted a large number of refugees, necessitating waste management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the composition of MSW in Zaatari Syrian Refugee Camp.
• To assess the recycling potential of waste streams within the camp.
• To propose a recycling model based on the study's findings.

Main Methods:

• Waste sampling conducted over two seasons in 2015.
• Analysis included household and commercial waste from selected districts.
• Hand sorting used for waste classification into categories and subcategories.

Main Results:

• Organic waste constituted the largest fraction (53%) of MSW.
• Plastics (12.85%), textiles (10.22%), and paper/cardboard (9%) were significant components.
• MSW composition showed similarities to Jordanian municipalities, indicating potential for localized recycling markets.

Conclusions:

• Plastics and paper/cardboard present significant opportunities for separation and recycling.
• Financial revenues from recyclables were analyzed based on local market prices.
• The study provides a baseline for MSW management and recycling in refugee camps across the Middle East and Europe.