The RRU-BMW project pilot tests on BMW source separation in Shenyang

The waste collection data analysis from 4 years MSW source separation considers the overall results from all households in each of the pilot areas. The average waste composition over the 4 years confirm previous results that the waste is characterized by a very high bioorganic fraction of about 80 %, showing a certain decrease of bioorganic waste in the winter, due to lower access to vegetables and fruits. The amount of recoverable matter (paper 6.5%, plastic 6.8 %, glass 1.5%, metal 0.3%) in the MSW is low, because a great part of the secondary raw materials is collected and sold by the households before being disposed. The participation rate of the households in the two main collection areas was 65% in the first year, stabilizing at 55% over the following period. About 80% of the MSW were collected as BMW and 20% as RMW. The BMW, with a biogas building potential of 100 m3/t FM (fresh matter) is highly suitable for biogas production, the slurry is lowly contaminated and can be used for land application and the RMW, with a calorific value of 16,000 kJ/t FM remains as RDF (refuse derived fuel). The RRU-BMW project is seen successful as the willingness of the citizens to participate in source separation activities sustains, even without short-term incentives. BMW source separation in residential areas in China should be seen as a realistic option to improve waste management in the direction of recycling economy, it would significantly release landfills and it is an economic feasible way to solve the pressing waste disposal problems.