Proposal for the Collection Systems and Valorization of Biowaste: A Study for the Municipalities Association of Cova da Beira

Abstract

This research aims to identify the best solutions to implement biowaste collection systems in a group of municipalities in Center of Portugal, Castelo Branco and Guarda districts, either through recycling at the source or selective collection, to valorize and reduce the impacts of this type of waste disposal. The recycling at the source and the selective collection are differentiated by their treatment method: the first, which uses domestic and community composters, and biocomposters, makes citizens responsible for the treatment of their biowaste; and the second consists of the process of collecting waste placed in eco-points, separated by type of material (glass, paper, plastic, biowaste, among others waste) so that they can be recycled by the infrastructures provided by the municipalities. However, both methods are complementary to respond to society’s economic and environmental needs. Methodologically, this research relied on a two-track approach. Initially, a literature review is carried out, based on the legislation that proposes measures to protect the environment and human health by preventing or reducing waste. Subsequently, a descriptive statistical analysis, supported by the information provided by the group of municipalities, shows the economic and financial resources needed to support the investment required over a period of ten years.