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Recycling
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Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and...
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Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and Circular Economy 2016

A special issue of Recycling (ISSN 2313-4321).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 August 2016) | Viewed by 130858

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Michele John

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Sustainable Engineering Group, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
Interests: resource recovery; sustainable materials; green manufacturing; transformation of waste collection; mining and agricultural waste value adding
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Julie Hill

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
WRAP (UK), Banbury, OX16 5BH Oxon, UK
Interests: public policy and resource recovery; circular economy

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The focus of this Special Issue is on the use and value of public policy and regulatory mechanisms in increasing recycling, better waste management and resource recovery, and the move towards more circular models of how resources are used in economic systems.

Public policy, particularly through EU mechanisms, has been a critical force in improving resource recovery and sustainability outcomes from waste management. However, emerging circular economy models imply a shift from a focus on waste as a problem to be managed, to the need for better stewardship of potentially constrained resources, the potential to capture greater value, and an emphasis on industrial ecology and sustainable production and consumption. These ideas have been brought to the fore by a combination of NGOs, consultants, large firms, and a handful of regional and local governments.
A growing number of firms is taking up circular economy thinking and practice, finding new business models such as service-based offerings, recovering or remanufacturing more of their products, and designing for recovery. This Special Edition will examine how public policy in different countries and regions underpins and adds to these initiatives. We know that policy settings and regulatory programs and mechanisms are often critical in achieving the targets required in successful waste management recovery programs, particularly for organic waste. How far is this the case in delivering the greater ambitions for the circular economy?
There are now an increasing number of non-government organisations, private institutions, and government bodies dedicated to the delivery of improved sustainability outcomes in waste management. Many of these organisations have significant results and learnings from their recycling and resource recovery programs that should be shared. In addition, there are many community-based organisations that also have valuable lessons to share in relation to community engagement in waste management.

We believe that knowledge sharing of these international public policy directions will add significantly to both public and private advancement in resource recovery, circular economy and sustainability.

Among the topics explored will be:

  1. Efforts to map national flows as a tool for developing policy on waste management and circular economy
  2. Development of legislation and policy: what are the goals?
  3. Interaction between corporate behaviours and policy development
  4. Understanding markets for recovered materials
  5. The sustainable consumption agenda as a component of circular economy
  6. Circular economy in education
  7. Finance for the Circular Economy

Prof. Dr. Michele Rosano
Prof. Dr. Julie Hill
Guest Editors

Keywords

  • Policy and regulatory mechanisms to encourage waste prevention, re-use and recycling
  • Policy and regulatory mechanisms to encourage organic waste resource recovery
  • Circular economy and waste management
  • Remanufacturing
  • New business models
  • Servitisation
  • Landfill regulations
  • Sustainable production and consumption
  • Industrial ecology
  • Resource Stewardship
  • Critical raw materials
  • Sustainable growth

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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782 KiB  
Article
A Strategic Framework for Working toward Zero Waste Societies Based on Perceptions Surveys
by Atiq Uz Zaman
Recycling 2017, 2(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling2010001 - 09 Jan 2017
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 15175
Abstract
The visionary concept of zero waste advocates a systematic process of designing out waste and recovering resources from waste. A strategic zero waste framework (ZWF) is essential for developing and executing systematic waste management activities to achieve the overarching goals. This study identifies [...] Read more.
The visionary concept of zero waste advocates a systematic process of designing out waste and recovering resources from waste. A strategic zero waste framework (ZWF) is essential for developing and executing systematic waste management activities to achieve the overarching goals. This study identifies the key principles for the development of a strategic ZWF based on a waste experts’ survey analysis. Around 68 experts from different regions responded and provided their views on the key elements of a strategic ZWF though an online questionnaire survey. Eighteen strategic elements of waste prevention, management, treatment and assessment were identified as the key principles of the zero waste framework. As the study followed a generalized approach, it is important to acknowledge that all identified and proposed strategic elements may need to be contextualized based on the local conditions in order to achieve zero waste goals. Based on the findings, the study suggests the following three fundamental strategic action plans that need to be implemented simultaneously for moving towards zero waste societies: (i) sustainable production through a cradle-to-cradle design and product stewardship; (ii) collaborative and responsible consumption of natural resources; and (iii) zero waste management through conservation of resources. In addition, a constant evaluation of progress towards zero waste goals is essential. It is anticipated that by considering local circumstances, the proposed strategic guidelines would be beneficial for local authorities and relevant stakeholders while developing their zero waste strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and Circular Economy 2016)
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357 KiB  
Article
The Importance of Specific Recycling Information in Designing a Waste Management Scheme
by Adekunle Oke and Joanneke Kruijsen
Recycling 2016, 1(2), 271-285; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling1020271 - 07 Sep 2016
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 64409
Abstract
Recycling information can be complex and often confusing which may subsequently reduce the participations in any waste recycling schemes. As a result, this research explored the roles as well as the importance of a holistic approach in designing recycling information using 15 expert-based [...] Read more.
Recycling information can be complex and often confusing which may subsequently reduce the participations in any waste recycling schemes. As a result, this research explored the roles as well as the importance of a holistic approach in designing recycling information using 15 expert-based (in-depth) interviews. The rationale was to offer a better understanding of what constitutes waste, recycling, and how recycling information should be designed and presented to make recycling more attractive/convenient. Based on the research participants’ perceptions with supports from the existing studies, this research sub-categorised recycling information into three different themes, termed the “WWW” (what, when, and where) of recycling information components. As a result, these components (or attributes) were extensively described (using findings of semi-structured interviews) to elicit pragmatic guidance for practitioners, policy-makers, and other stakeholders in designing structured communication or information strategies that may simplify and subsequently increase waste recycling practices. The policy implications of holistic information in enhancing recycling are further discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and Circular Economy 2016)
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2505 KiB  
Article
A Tale of Two Cities: The Emergence of Urban Waste Systems in a Developed and a Developing City
by Erni M. Mukhtar, Ian D. Williams, Peter J. Shaw and Francis O. Ongondo
Recycling 2016, 1(2), 254-270; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling1020254 - 29 Aug 2016
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8981
Abstract
Developing cities have historically looked to developed cities as exemplary models for waste management systems and practices without considering the consequent resource requirements or the key characteristics of the local setting. However, direct adoption of developed cities’ approaches without proper consideration of the [...] Read more.
Developing cities have historically looked to developed cities as exemplary models for waste management systems and practices without considering the consequent resource requirements or the key characteristics of the local setting. However, direct adoption of developed cities’ approaches without proper consideration of the local circumstances may lead to unsustainable future waste management in developing cities. This study evaluates waste management in London and Kuala Lumpur, representing developed and developing cities, focusing on the integration of policy changes, socio-economic background and waste data trends on a multi-decadal scale. This analysis reveals the gradual implementation of initiatives, the challenges faced and the attempted solutions that were applied differently in both cities. Conceptual models of waste management status in different scenarios for both cities were developed. These models highlight that societal behaviour shifts from minimal waste generation (wasteless) to throw-away society (wasteful) and a drive to achieve sustainable waste behaviour with integration of resource recovery and waste minimization (wasting less). A detailed understanding of the evolution of waste management systems towards fulfilling public needs alongside rapid urbanization can provide new perspectives on future waste scenarios, especially in developing cities. Ultimately, reliable and accurate data are crucial to avoid inaccuracies in planning for future waste management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and Circular Economy 2016)
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1221 KiB  
Article
The EU Circular Economy and Its Relevance to Metal Recycling
by Christian Hagelüken, Ji Un Lee-Shin, Annick Carpentier and Chris Heron
Recycling 2016, 1(2), 242-253; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling1020242 - 27 Jul 2016
Cited by 79 | Viewed by 17692
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of ongoing European policy actions to improve the circular management of non-ferrous metals. After explaining why metals are at the center of the European Union’s circular economy initiative, the authors outline a number of issues that still need [...] Read more.
This paper provides an overview of ongoing European policy actions to improve the circular management of non-ferrous metals. After explaining why metals are at the center of the European Union’s circular economy initiative, the authors outline a number of issues that still need tackling to “close the loop”, and prevent Europe’s metals from being landfilled, incinerated, or exported without guarantee of high-quality treatment. Electronic waste is focused on in detail during this analysis, because of the special challenges in environmentally sound recovery of smaller quantities of valuable and precious metals. In particular, the authors find that a mandatory certification scheme for recyclers of electronic waste, in or out of Europe, would help to incentivize high-quality treatment processes and efficient material recovery. More generally, the article finds that the European Commission’s waste legislation proposals and Action Plan begins to address key challenges, provided the requirements are implemented strongly and consistently across Member States. In particular, it is crucial that EU policy establishes level playing field conditions for European metals recyclers Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and Circular Economy 2016)
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1832 KiB  
Article
Recycling Approach towards Sustainability Advance of Composite Materials’ Industry
by Maria Cristina Santos Ribeiro, António Fiúza, António Ferreira, Maria De Lurdes Dinis, Ana Cristina Meira Castro, João Paulo Meixedo and Mário Rui Alvim
Recycling 2016, 1(1), 178-193; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling1010178 - 09 Jun 2016
Cited by 67 | Viewed by 14725
Abstract
Worldwide volume production and consumption of engineered composite materials, namely fiber reinforced polymers (FRP), have increased in the last decades, mostly in the construction, automobile, aeronautic and wind energy sectors. This rising production and consumption have also led to an increasing amount of [...] Read more.
Worldwide volume production and consumption of engineered composite materials, namely fiber reinforced polymers (FRP), have increased in the last decades, mostly in the construction, automobile, aeronautic and wind energy sectors. This rising production and consumption have also led to an increasing amount of FRP waste, either end-of-life (EoL) products or manufacturing rejects. Taking into account the actual and impending EU framework on waste management, in which clear targets are set with concrete measures to ensure effective implementation, landfill and incineration will be progressively unavailable as traditional end-routes for this kind of waste. Recycling techniques and end-use applications for the recyclates have been investigated over the past twenty years, but even so, more cost-effective and feasible market outlets for the recyclates should be identified that meet both the economic and the environmental points of view. This paper is aimed at enclosing and summarizing an update overview regarding all these issues: current legislation, recycling techniques and end-use applications for the recyclates. Additionally, as a case study, the assessment of the potential improvements that could be made on the eco-efficiency performance (sustainability) of a typical FRP composite materials’ industry by recycling and re-engineering process approaches is also reported. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and Circular Economy 2016)
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Review

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553 KiB  
Review
Charting Policy Directions for Mining’s Sustainability with Circular Economy
by Raquel Balanay and Anthony Halog
Recycling 2016, 1(2), 219-231; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling1020219 - 30 Jun 2016
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 8701
Abstract
This paper discusses circular economy (CE) as an option to mitigate the environmental impacts of mining operations, and a framework based on the three dimensions of sustainability, the possible uses of mining wastes, the life cycle, and the systems approaches to determine the [...] Read more.
This paper discusses circular economy (CE) as an option to mitigate the environmental impacts of mining operations, and a framework based on the three dimensions of sustainability, the possible uses of mining wastes, the life cycle, and the systems approaches to determine the policies that will induce initiatives towards designing out wastes for a mining-based circular economy. Previous research has been reviewed to determine CE configuration and the basis for the framework to guide in the development of CE-related mining policies. The Chinese model of circular economy, noted for the introduction of industrial symbiosis through eco-industrial parks at the meso level, and public participation at the macro level, forms the basic structure of the framework aimed at curbing mining waste, and closing the loop in mining. Holistic research is important in taking proactive CE technology actions, strategic measures, and policies, which can use life cycle assessment (LCA) methods (environmental and social LCA and life cycle costing) and systems dynamic modeling. With systems dynamic modeling, the framework introduced in this work can be expanded to cover as many important aspects as possible, and can check for areas of policy resistance that have been the reason for most policy failures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Policy Directions for Recycling, Waste Management, Resource Recovery and Circular Economy 2016)
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