#chemical waste recycling

[sandrinecrop1]

Chemical Waste Recycling

Experience top-tier chemical waste recycling services with Sandrine Corp. They specialize in safe and compliant chemical waste disposal, prioritizing environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance. Their tailored solutions ensure chemical waste is recycled responsibly, supporting your commitment to sustainability goals while mitigating environmental risks. Trust Sandrine Corp for efficient and ethical chemical waste recycling solutions tailored to your business needs.

[summerlandenviormental]

Waste Collection Services

Experience top-tier waste collection services with Summerland Environmental. Our comprehensive solutions cater to both residential and commercial needs, ensuring a clean and sanitary environment. From regular waste collection to bulk waste removal and recycling services, we handle it all with efficiency and reliability. Trust Summerland Environmental for timely and eco-friendly waste management. Discover more about our waste collection services at Summerland Environmental. Keep your surroundings clean and green with our expert services.

[clarancevalley]

Comprehensive Guide to Septic Tank Cleaning, Waste Oil Recycling, and Used Oil Recycling

Septic tank cleaning, waste oil recycling, and used oil recycling are crucial processes for maintaining environmental health, preventing contamination, and ensuring the longevity of infrastructure. This article delves into the importance of these services, the processes involved, and the benefits they bring to individuals and communities. Visit Clarence Valley Septics for more information and professional services.

Septic Tank Cleaning

Understanding Septic Systems

Septic systems are essential for managing household wastewater in areas without centralized sewage systems. A typical septic system comprises a septic tank and a drain field. Wastewater from the home flows into the septic tank, where solids settle at the bottom, forming sludge, and fats, oils, and grease float to the top as scum. The remaining liquid effluent flows out into the drain field for further filtration and absorption into the soil.

Importance of Regular Septic Tank Cleaning

Regular septic tank cleaning is vital to prevent system failure, environmental contamination, and health hazards. Over time, sludge and scum accumulate in the tank, reducing its capacity and efficiency. If not cleaned periodically, the tank can overflow, leading to sewage backups in the home, unpleasant odors, and costly repairs.

The Cleaning Process

Inspection: A thorough inspection of the septic system is conducted to assess its condition and determine the cleaning requirements.

Pumping: A vacuum truck is used to pump out the accumulated sludge and scum from the tank.

Cleaning: The tank is cleaned, removing any remaining residue and ensuring all components are functioning correctly.

Disposal: The pumped waste is transported to a designated treatment facility for proper disposal and treatment.

Benefits of Septic Tank Cleaning

Prevents System Failure: Regular cleaning helps avoid costly repairs and replacements by maintaining the system's efficiency.

Protects Health: Properly maintained septic systems prevent sewage backups, reducing the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens.

Environmental Protection: Prevents untreated sewage from contaminating groundwater and local waterways.

Increases Longevity: Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of the septic system, providing long-term savings.

Waste Oil Recycling

Understanding Waste Oil

Waste oil refers to any petroleum-based or synthetic oil that has become unsuitable for its original purpose due to contamination with impurities, such as dirt, metal particles, or chemicals. Common sources of waste oil include automotive engines, industrial machinery, and cooking processes.

Importance of Waste Oil Recycling

Recycling waste oil is crucial for environmental protection and resource conservation. Improper disposal of waste oil can lead to soil and water contamination, posing serious health risks to humans and wildlife. Recycling helps mitigate these risks and reduces the demand for new oil production, conserving natural resources.

The Recycling Process

Collection: Waste oil is collected from various sources, such as automotive repair shops, factories, and restaurants.

Transport: The collected waste oil is transported to a recycling facility in specially designed containers.

Testing: The waste oil undergoes testing to determine its composition and suitability for recycling.

Recycling: The recycling process involves removing contaminants through filtration, distillation, and other treatment methods.

Re-refining: The purified oil is re-refined into usable products, such as lubricants, fuel oil, and raw materials for new oil products.

Benefits of Waste Oil Recycling

Environmental Protection: Prevents soil and water contamination by diverting waste oil from landfills and illegal dumping.

Resource Conservation: Reduces the demand for new oil production, conserving natural resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Economic Savings: Recycling waste oil is cost-effective compared to producing new oil, offering financial savings for industries and consumers.

Energy Efficiency: Re-refining waste oil uses less energy than producing oil from crude, promoting energy efficiency.

Used Oil Recycling

Understanding Used Oil

Used oil is any oil that has been used and subsequently contaminated with impurities, making it unsuitable for further use in its original application. This includes motor oil, hydraulic oil, and transmission fluid.

Importance of Used Oil Recycling

Recycling used oil is essential for protecting the environment and conserving valuable resources. Improper disposal of used oil can lead to severe environmental damage, including soil and water pollution. Recycling helps mitigate these risks and promotes sustainable practices.

The Recycling Process

Collection: Used oil is collected from various sources, including automotive service centers, industrial facilities, and households.

Transport: The collected used oil is transported to a recycling facility in appropriate containers.

Testing: The used oil undergoes testing to determine its suitability for recycling and to identify contaminants.

Recycling: The recycling process involves removing contaminants through filtration, distillation, and other treatment methods.

Re-refining: The purified oil is re-refined into usable products, such as lubricants, fuel oil, and raw materials for new oil products.

Benefits of Used Oil Recycling

Environmental Protection: Prevents soil and water contamination by diverting used oil from landfills and illegal dumping.

Resource Conservation: Reduces the demand for new oil production, conserving natural resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Economic Savings: Recycling used oil is cost-effective compared to producing new oil, offering financial savings for industries and consumers.

Energy Efficiency: Re-refining used oil uses less energy than producing oil from crude, promoting energy efficiency.

Conclusion

Septic tank cleaning, waste oil recycling, and used oil recycling are essential services for maintaining environmental health, preventing contamination, and conserving resources. Regular septic tank cleaning ensures the efficient operation and longevity of septic systems, protecting public health and the environment. Waste oil and used oil recycling prevent pollution, conserve resources, and promote sustainable practices.

By understanding the importance and benefits of these processes, individuals and industries can contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. For professional services and expert guidance, visit Clarence Valley Septics.

Call to Action Ensure your septic system and oil waste are properly managed by contacting Clarence Valley Septics for reliable and professional services. Protect your property, health, and the environment by prioritizing regular maintenance and recycling efforts. Visit Clarence Valley Septics to learn more and schedule your service today

[agaselectronicmaterials]

Learn essential waste management practices for chemical manufacturing from A-Gas Electronic Materials. This guide covers waste minimisation, segregation, recycling, safe storage, and compliance. Enhance sustainability and efficiency in your operations.

[betheproduct]

Transforming Plastic Waste into Opportunities

Join this movement for a cleaner future.

The company Corsair, now also located in Kaipola, Finland

is showcasing the magic of turning plastic waste into something extraordinary - Advanced Bio Oil!

Witness the enchanting journey as useless trash evolves into a valuable resource, contributing to a cleaner and greener environment.

Corsair is on a mission to create massive positive impact by converting plastic waste into a magical elixir, the Advanced Bio Oil.

It's not a greenwashing magic trick; it's a commitment to Mother Earth

Do yo care about Nature? Get active and become involved, It's Time. Let's join-up and by working together we can break the cycle of plastic pollution together. The massive demand for plastic products has led to a collective responsibility to make conscious choices and support sustainable initiatives, companies and purpose driven CEO's.

During our entire life, we all bought and threw away plastic products. We were/are part of the problem now let's become part of the solution.

We will keep you updated, but remember also you, when you watch this video can bring value to the collective!

Together, we can create a future where waste transforms into wonders. Help our environment shine brighter than ever

So please if you care, Follow, Share, Support, or Join Us in our quest to turn the tide on plastic pollution.

Help us create more exposure with this proven sollution for plastic polution : Give us a like and Click on Share this post on your Linkedin profile.

Dennis Schoofs & Paolo Castelli

#Magic

#Facts #SustainableFuture #TransformingWaste #BioOilRevolution #technology

[earaercircular]

From peel collector to raw material producer: 'Ultimately, circular revenue models are the future'

PreZero Netherlands collects waste wood and gives it new life, for example for pallet blocks and chipboards

"We can't complete the business case." It is a frequently heard statement in the world of the circular economy. Too often too little money is earned with good intentions. But that is no reason for Remko Walsweer, CFO of PreZero Netherlands, to deviate from the plan. “Circular revenue models are becoming increasingly profitable.”

In his ten years at PreZero (previously SUEZ, previously SITA)[1], Walsweer has seen the company change considerably. “We started out as garbage collectors. We still are. But we are now more than that. We have become a supplier of raw materials and are therefore part of the sustainable transition.”

Linear is easy

A company in transition, operating in a world that is slowly but steadily moving towards a circular economy[2], faces very different financial challenges than a decade ago. The linear economy is a lot easier in that respect: buying, making and selling, often by the same party. “In a circular economy you need partners,” says Walsweer. “Consumer waste is our raw material. We can collect, process and upgrade this. And now that we are part of the Schwarz Group[3], we have the opportunity to bring recycled material back into production, for example in packaging.”[4]

Recycle wood

The strategy is clear: more material, high-quality recycling. But the trick is to stick to that strategy, even in difficult economic times. “During the energy crisis, we saw the yields of biomass plants skyrocket,” says Walsweer. “So burning waste wood generated a lot of money. While we prefer to recycle that wood, for example into pallet blocks and for the chipboard industry. Recycling therefore meant that we lost money. Nevertheless, we decided to go for it, because it contributes to our long-term strategy. It is crucial that you do not get tempted by short-term financial gain and stay true to your long-term strategy.”

Law sometimes gets in the way

Creating profitable revenue models is a process of trial and error. Sometimes a hard lesson, Walsweer knows. “A few years ago, for example, we produced a recycled hospital barrel. These are barrels that hospitals use for medical waste. Hospitals became enthusiastic about the idea and were even willing to pay a premium for our barrels. But as it turned out: according to the law, these barrels may not be made from recycled material. It took years before that amendment was made to the law. Until then, this idea had to be put back on the shelf. The recycled barrel has now been taken into production and is being used by several academic hospitals.”

Bring customers

PreZero had a similar experience with the recycling of paint from recycling centres. The waste processor devised a process to collect paint residue from discarded cans and recycle it into new paint. This turned out to be excellent. “The only problem,” says Walsweer, “was that the paint industry was not at all interested in our product. They were simply not ready to put recycled paint on the market[5]. Since then we have known that it is essential that the potential buyer of a recycled product is included in the whole process from the start.”

Despite these minor setbacks, Walsweer has no doubt that an idea like the recycled paint can be taken off the shelf sooner or later. “Moreover, we have learned which parties in the chain should be involved in such a process. Those are valuable lessons for the future.”

Chemical recycling

"Due to the cooperation with the supermarket chains within the Schwarz Group, the lines with potential partners have become even shorter," continues Walsweer. “So that our upgraded residual flows actually end up on the shelves as packaging. In addition, we are working with Shell[6] to see whether we can even make food packaging from plastic waste using chemical recycling; something that is only allowed to a limited extent with current recycling applications.”[7]

New European rules

Although amendments to the law can always be made faster, Walsweer is pleased with international agreements that will soon come into force. For example, the European rules that oblige producers to use a certain proportion of recycled materials in new products. The CSRD[8], the detailed sustainability accounting, will also make a good contribution to the circular economy, although the approaching administrative burden also makes Walsweer 'a bit anxious'. “The intention of the new reporting rules is good. Ultimately, the new rules will encourage companies to produce more sustainably.”

Batteries firing and exploding nitrous oxide cylinders

On June 16, 2021, the sorting installation in Zwolle[9] of PreZero Nederland completely burned down. Cause: probably a lithium battery[10] lost in the household waste. Earlier this year, PreZero opened a completely new installation: bigger, safer and a lot more advanced.

“Batteries are a huge problem for waste collectors,” says Walsweer. “It is a pity that this risk lies entirely with these companies. Our insurance premiums are gigantic and in the event of a major fire, the damage can quickly run into millions of euros. In addition to batteries that can ignite, we have recently also seen more and more problems with nitrous oxide cylinders. These are dumped in waste containers and can explode spontaneously in the incinerator. This is a huge risk for the waste sector; both for equipment as well as employees. We would like to great measures that lead to the fact that these kinds of risks being are shared with the entire chain. Or that the government set up a fund that you as an affected company can appeal on.”

Resource shortage

“Ultimately, circular revenue models are the revenue models of the future,” says Walsweer. “We already saw this happen when the oil price shot up last year. This naturally also increased the price of virgin plastics.” The price fluctuations that are typical for virgin raw materials make it even more difficult to compete with recycled flows: one time you are below the virgin price, the other time above it. “But if we continue to extract raw materials from the earth, they will become increasingly scarce. And then the price shoots up and the recycled alternative becomes more attractive. Entrepreneurship in the circular economy therefore really requires a long breath.”

"What if it works?"

Nevertheless, Walsweer notices that it is becoming increasingly easier to convince people of this vision of the future. “You notice it in the enthusiasm with which people work. They think it's cool to be part of the circular economy. Especially with the younger generation. In the past, we sometimes had trouble retaining management trainees. Today that is not a problem at all. Yes, the road is long and not all innovations get off the ground at the same time. But in case it works, then you want to be part of it, don't you?"

What is Chemical Recycling?

Chemical recycling is often mentioned as a counterpart to mechanical recycling. The latter is a method with which some plastic waste streams can be recycled into plastic granules and can be reused in certain plastic applications. Chemical recycling is a newer technique and has the great advantage that it converts difficult-to-recycle plastic waste streams into the building blocks of plastic. You can then use this to produce new plastics with the same qualities as virgin plastic.[11]

Source

Teun Schröder, Van schillenboer tot grondstofproducent: ‘Uiteindelijk hebben circulaire verdienmodellen de toekomst’, inj: Change Inc, 28-07-2023, https://www.change.inc/circulaire-economie/van-schillenboer-tot-grondstofproducent-uiteindelijk-hebben-circulaire-verdienmodellen-de-toekomst-40250

[1] Read also: https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/654048872435433472/ceo-prezero-netherlands-formerly-suez-to?source=share

[2] Read also: Louis Delcart, Towards a Circular Economy, The Great Experiences Book, LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing, 2022. This book describes the phenomena that are taking place in order to introduce the principles of the circular economy among citizens and companies. And also describes the steps that companies are already taking in order to introduce these in their working environment. And governments are resolutely taking the road to convince (compel) their companies and their citizens to produce and sell differently.It offers a state of affairs at the beginning of 2022 with numerous inspiring examples. The evolution from linear to circular economy has just been going on for ten years. However, the corona pandemic has accelerated the evolution in many countries. Circularity is also driven by the young generation, that is taking the lead in lots of start-ups in that perspective. The book also argues not to consider the circular economy as a standstill or decline. On the contrary: all studies point to the job creation that will be much needed because of the progress of digitalization. A circular economy, with materials that are already present and therefore no longer have to be imported and with products that will be repaired, will also make employment nearby again attractive. https://www.morebooks.shop/shop-ui/shop/product/978-620-4-74455-1

[3] the German family business behind supermarket chains Lidl and Kaufland

[4] Read also: https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/674889822187536384/much-more-than-just-waste?source=share

[5] Read also: https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/670841260684263424/co2-compost-cigarette-butts-coffee-capsules-in?source=share

[6] Shell plc is a British multinational oil and gas company headquartered in London, England. Shell is a public limited company with a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) and secondary listings on Euronext Amsterdam and the New York Stock Exchange. A core component of Big Oil, Shell is the second largest investor-owned oil and gas company in the world by revenue (after ExxonMobil), and among the world's largest companies out of any industry.

[7] Read also: https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/705241062480969728/how-the-eu-can-enable-a-circular-economy-in?source=share

[8] Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, https://finance.ec.europa.eu/capital-markets-union-and-financial-markets/company-reporting-and-auditing/company-reporting/corporate-sustainability-reporting_en

[9] Zwolle is a city and municipality in the Northeastern Netherlands. It is the capital of the province of Overijssel and the province's second-largest municipality after Enschede with a population of 130,592 as of 1 December 2021. Zwolle borders on the province of Gelderland and is east of the river IJssel.

[10] Read also: https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/724287907541696512/lithium-batteries-in-everyday-life-how-to-prevent?source=share

[11] Read also: https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/680593919260622849/west-brabant-becomes-hotspot-for-chemical?source=share & https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/697841971453198336/dow-wants-to-move-to-co2-neutral-and-fully?source=share & https://www.tumblr.com/earaercircular/670658056313569280/belgian-becomes-king-of-plastics?source=share

[chemsolutionsbalaji]

Transforming Waste Into Resources With Our Waste Paper Recycling Process!

Discover the power of sustainability with our comprehensive waste paper recycling process! At Balaji Chem Solutions, we're redefining eco-friendliness by guiding you through every step of turning waste paper into valuable resources. Our step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process, from collection and sorting to pulping and reformation. Unveil the secrets of reducing environmental impact and conserving precious trees by adopting waste paper recycling. Our detailed guide simplifies complex concepts, making it easy for both beginners and enthusiasts to comprehend the process. Learn about advanced techniques and modern technologies that ensure maximum efficiency and minimal wastage.

[greenthestral]

From Waste to Wealth: Transforming Trash into Sustainable Success

In a world grappling with environmental concerns and limited resources, the concept of "waste to wealth" holds tremendous promise. Waste, once perceived as a burden, is now recognized as a potential asset that can be transformed into a valuable resource. From recycling and upcycling to innovative technologies, this article explores the various ways in which we can turn waste into wealth, promoting sustainable practices and economic growth.

The Power of Recycling

Recycling has become a household term, but its significance cannot be overstated. By collecting and processing waste materials such as plastic, paper, glass, and metal, we can divert them from landfills and give them a new life. The recycling industry not only reduces the strain on our planet's resources but also creates employment opportunities and contributes to the circular economy. Governments and businesses worldwide are investing in recycling infrastructure and raising awareness to maximize the potential of waste recycling.

Upcycling: Adding Value to Discarded Materials

While recycling focuses on breaking down waste materials, upcycling takes a different approach by transforming them into products of higher value. Instead of downgrading the material, upcycling adds creativity and innovation to turn waste into desirable and unique items. From repurposing old furniture to creating fashion accessories from discarded textiles, upcycling has gained popularity as a sustainable alternative to conventional manufacturing. This practice not only reduces waste but also fosters creativity and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Innovative Technologies for Waste Management

Advancements in technology have revolutionized waste management, offering exciting possibilities for a greener and more sustainable future. One groundbreaking technology that has gained significant attention is waste-to-energy conversion. This process involves transforming organic waste into valuable biogas or biofuels through various techniques such as anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis.

Anaerobic digestion is a biological process that breaks down organic waste in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas as a byproduct. The organic waste, such as food scraps, agricultural residues, and sewage sludge, is placed in an enclosed tank where anaerobic bacteria decompose the waste and generate methane-rich biogas. This biogas can then be used as a renewable energy source for electricity generation, heating, or even as a vehicle fuel. The remaining digestate, which is a nutrient-rich residue, can be utilized as a natural fertilizer for agriculture, closing the loop on waste management.

Pyrolysis is another waste-to-energy conversion process that involves heating organic waste in the absence of oxygen, resulting in the production of biochar, bio-oil, and syngas. Biochar is a stable carbon-rich material that can enhance soil fertility and carbon sequestration, while bio-oil and syngas can be utilized as energy sources. This process can be applied to various types of organic waste, including agricultural residues, forestry waste, and even certain types of plastics.

The waste-to-energy conversion technologies not only offer a sustainable solution for waste management but also contribute to the production of renewable energy. By diverting organic waste from landfills, these processes help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as landfilling organic waste leads to the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Furthermore, the utilization of biogas and biofuels as energy sources helps decrease reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating the negative impacts of climate change and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.

While waste-to-energy conversion primarily focuses on organic waste, technology is also advancing to address the challenges posed by non-recyclable plastics. Traditional recycling methods often face limitations when it comes to certain plastics, such as multilayered packaging and mixed plastics that are difficult to separate and process. To tackle this issue, innovative technologies like plasma gasification and chemical recycling are being explored.

Plasma gasification is a high-temperature process that converts solid waste, including non-recyclable plastics, into a synthetic gas known as syngas. This syngas can be further utilized as a source of energy or as a chemical feedstock for the production of various materials. The process employs extremely high temperatures generated by an electric arc or plasma torch, breaking down the waste into its elemental components.

Chemical recycling, also known as advanced recycling or feedstock recycling, involves breaking down plastics into their molecular building blocks through various chemical processes. These building blocks can then be used as raw materials to produce new plastics, reducing the demand for virgin fossil fuel-based plastics. Chemical recycling has the potential to address the challenges posed by mixed plastics, post-consumer plastics, and plastics that are difficult to recycle through traditional mechanical processes.

By exploring and implementing these innovative waste management technologies, we can significantly reduce waste generation, minimize environmental pollution, and create valuable resources. Waste-to-energy conversion technologies provide a sustainable alternative to conventional waste disposal methods, generating renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, plasma gasification and chemical recycling offer solutions to the challenges posed by non-recyclable plastics, fostering a more circular economy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

As technology continues to advance and awareness of environmental issues grows, it is crucial to support and invest in these innovative waste management solutions. Collaboration between governments, businesses, and individuals is vital to drive the adoption of these technologies, promote sustainable practices, and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future. By harnessing the power of technology, we can transform waste into wealth, mitigate environmental impacts, and build a more resilient planet for generations to come.

The Circular Economy Approach

The circular economy is an economic system that aims to minimize waste generation and maximize resource utilization. It emphasizes the concept of "closing the loop" by designing products that are durable, repairable, and recyclable. Through practices like product life extension, sharing economy models, and responsible consumption, the circular economy reduces the extraction of raw materials and promotes the efficient use of existing resources. By adopting a circular approach, businesses can not only reduce waste and costs but also enhance their brand reputation and contribute to environmental preservation.

Waste Management as a Business Opportunity

The transition from waste to wealth has opened up new avenues for entrepreneurs and innovators. Startups are emerging in various sectors, focusing on waste management and resource recovery. From companies that convert food waste into fertilizer to those that produce eco-friendly packaging materials, these businesses demonstrate the potential for profit while addressing environmental challenges. Governments and investors are supporting these ventures, recognizing their ability to create jobs, drive economic growth, and contribute to a sustainable future.

Community Engagement and Education

Creating a sustainable future requires collective action, and community engagement plays a crucial role. Education and awareness campaigns can help change people's attitudes and behaviors towards waste management. By promoting responsible consumption, waste segregation, and recycling practices, individuals can actively participate in the waste-to-wealth movement. Community initiatives, such as local recycling centers, composting programs, and upcycling workshops, provide platforms for collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Together, we can build a more sustainable and prosperous society.

Conclusion

The waste-to-wealth concept holds immense potential for addressing environmental challenges and creating economic opportunities. By embracing recycling, upcycling, and innovative technologies, we can transform waste into valuable resources, reduce landfill burden, and mitigate the depletion of natural resources. The circular economy approach and the rise of waste management startups further demonstrate the viability of turning waste into a profitable enterprise. However, achieving lasting change requires collective efforts, community engagement, and continuous education. Let us seize the opportunity to turn waste into wealth and build a sustainable future for generations to come.

[nnctales]

Polyurea Concrete Blocks: Revolutionizing Construction with Durability and Versatility

Introduction In the world of construction, innovation is a constant driving force, enabling builders to create structures that are more durable, sustainable, and efficient. One such innovation that has gained significant attention is the use of polyurea concrete blocks. These blocks, with their unique properties and versatility, are transforming the construction industry. This article delves into…

[dandelionsresilience]

Good News - July 22-28

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my new(ly repurposed) Patreon!

1. Four new cheetah cubs born in Saudi Arabia after 40 years of extinction

“[T]he discovery of mummified cheetahs in caves […] which ranged in age from 4,000 to as recent as 120 years, proved that the animals […] once called [Saudi Arabia] home. The realisation kick-started the country’s Cheetah Conservation Program to bring back the cats to their historic Arabian range. […] Dr Mohammed Qurban, CEO of the NCW, said: […] “This motivates us to continue our efforts to restore and reintroduce cheetahs, guided by an integrated strategy designed in accordance with best international practices.””

2. In sub-Saharan Africa, ‘forgotten’ foods could boost climate resilience, nutrition

“[A study published in PNAS] examined “forgotten” crops that may help make sub-Saharan food systems more resilient, and more nutritious, as climate change makes it harder to grow [current staple crops.] [… The study identified 138 indigenous] food crops that were “relatively underresearched, underutilized, or underpromoted in an African context,” but which have the nutrient content and growing stability to support healthy diets and local economies in the region. […] In Eswatini, van Zonneveld and the World Vegetable Center are working with schools to introduce hardy, underutilized vegetables to their gardens, which have typically only grown beans and maize.”

3. Here's how $4 billion in government money is being spent to reduce climate pollution

“[New Orleans was awarded] nearly $50 million to help pay for installing solar on low to middle income homes [… and] plans to green up underserved areas with trees and build out its lackluster bike lane system to provide an alternative to cars. […] In Utah, $75 million will fund several measures from expanding electric vehicles to reducing methane emissions from oil and gas production. [… A] coalition of states led by North Carolina will look to store carbon in lands used for agriculture as well as natural places like wetlands, with more than $400 million. [… This funding is] “providing investments in communities, new jobs, cost savings for everyday Americans, improved air quality, … better health outcomes.””

4. From doom scrolling to hope scrolling: this week’s big Democratic vibe shift

“[Democrats] have been on an emotional rollercoaster for the past few weeks: from grim determination as Biden fought to hang on to his push for a second term, to outright exuberance after he stepped aside and Harris launched her campaign. […] In less than a week, the Harris campaign raised record-breaking sums and signed up more than 100,000 new volunteers[….] This honeymoon phase will end, said Democratic strategist Guy Cecil, warning the election will be a close race, despite this newfound exuberance in his party. [… But v]oters are saying they are excited to vote for Harris and not just against Trump. That’s new.”

5. Biodegradable luminescent polymers show promise for reducing electronic waste

“[A team of scientists discovered that a certain] chemical enables the recycling of [luminescent polymers] while maintaining high light-emitting functions. […] At the end of life, this new polymer can be degraded under either mild acidic conditions (near the pH of stomach acid) or relatively low heat treatment (> 410 F). The resulting materials can be isolated and remade into new materials for future applications. […] The researchers predict this new polymer can be applied to existing technologies, such as displays and medical imaging, and enable new applications […] such as cell phones and computer screens with continued testing.”

6. World’s Biggest Dam Removal Project to Open 420 Miles of Salmon Habitat this Fall

“Reconnecting the river will help salmon and steelhead populations survive a warming climate and [natural disasters….] In the long term, dam removal will significantly improve water quality in the Klamath. “Algae problems in the reservoirs behind the dams were so bad that the water was dangerous for contact […] and not drinkable,” says Fluvial Geomorphologist Brian Cluer. [… The project] will begin to reverse decades of habitat degradation, allow threatened salmon species to be resilient in the face of climate change, and restore tribal connections to their traditional food source.”

7. Biden-Harris Administration Awards $45.1 Million to Expand Mental Health and Substance Use Services Across the Lifespan

““Be it fostering wellness in young people, caring for the unhoused, facilitating treatment and more, this funding directly supports the needs of our neighbors,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. [The funding also supports] recovery and reentry services to adults in the criminal justice system who have a substance use disorder[… and clinics which] serve anyone who asks for help for mental health or substance use, regardless of their ability to pay.”

8. The World’s Rarest Crow Will Soon Fly Free on Maui

“[… In] the latest attempt to establish a wild crow population, biologists will investigate if this species can thrive on Maui, an island where it may have never lived before. Translocations outside of a species’ known historical range are rare in conservation work, but for a bird on the brink of extinction, it’s a necessary experiment: Scientists believe the crows will be safer from predators in a new locale—a main reason that past reintroduction attempts failed. […] As the release date approaches, the crows have already undergone extensive preparation for life in the wild. […] “We try to give them the respect that you would give if you were caring for someone’s elder.””

9. An optimist’s guide to the EV battery mining challenge

““Battery minerals have a tremendous benefit over oil, and that’s that you can reuse them.” [… T]he report’s authors found there’s evidence to suggest that [improvements in technology] and recycling have already helped limit demand for battery minerals in spite of this rapid growth — and that further improvements can reduce it even more. [… They] envision a scenario in which new mining for battery materials can basically stop by 2050, as battery recycling meets demand. In this fully realized circular battery economy, the world must extract a total of 125 million tons of battery minerals — a sum that, while hefty, is actually 17 times smaller than the oil currently harvested every year to fuel road transport.”

10. Peekaboo! A baby tree kangaroo debuts at the Bronx Zoo

“The tiny Matschie’s tree kangaroo […] was the third of its kind born at the Bronx Zoo since 2008. [… A] Bronx Zoo spokesperson said that the kangaroo's birth was significant for the network of zoos that aims to preserve genetic diversity among endangered animals. "It's a small population and because of that births are not very common," said Jessica Moody, curator of primates and small mammals at the Bronx Zoo[, …] adding that baby tree kangaroos are “possibly one of the cutest animals to have ever lived. They look like stuffed animals, it's amazing.””

July 15-21 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[clarencevalleyseptics]

Chemical Waste Disposal

Aside from helping to keep the environment clean, effective waste disposal also helps to keep our homes and workplaces neat and tidy. Chemical or hazardous waste has the potential to harm us and must be disposed of carefully. Rather than littering, certain Chemical Waste Disposal methods can eliminate the risks that come with coming into contact with a toxic chemical.

[reasonsforhope]

"Namibia is the driest country in Sub-Saharan Africa, and home to two of the world’s most ancient deserts, the Kalahari and the Namib. The capital, Windhoek, is sandwiched between them, 400 miles away from the nearest perennial river and more than 300 miles away from the coast. Water is in short supply.

It’s hard to imagine life thriving in Windhoek, yet 477,000 people call it home, and 99 per cent of them have access to drinking water thanks to technology pioneered 55 years ago on the outskirts of the city. Now, some of the world’s biggest cities are embracing this technology as they adapt to the harshest impacts of climate change. But Namibia leads the way.

How did this come about? In the 1950s, Windhoek’s natural resources struggled to cope with a rapidly growing population, and severe water shortages gripped the city. But disaster forced innovation, and in 1968 the Goreangab Water Reclamation Plant in Windhoek became the first place in the world to produce drinking water directly from sewage, a process known as direct potable reuse (DPR). 

That may sound revolting, but it’s completely safe. Dr Lucas van Vuuren, who was among those who pioneered Windhoek’s reclamation system, once said that “water should not be judged by its history, but by its quality”. And DPR ensures quality. 

This is done using a continuous multi-barrier treatment devised in Windhoek during eight years of pilot studies in the 1960s. This process – which has been upgraded four times since 1968 – eliminates pollutants and safeguards against pathogens by harnessing bacteria to digest the human waste and remove it from the water. This partly mimics what happens when water is recycled in nature, but Windhoek does it all in under 24 hours...

Pictured: These ultrafiltration membranes help to remove bacteria, viruses and pathogens. Image: Margaret Courtney-Clarke

“We know that we have antibiotics in the water, preservatives from cosmetics, anti-corrosion prevention chemicals from the dishwasher,” Honer explains. “We find them and we remove them.”

Honer adds that online instruments monitor the water continuously, and staff ensure that only drinking water that meets World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines is sent to homes. If any inconsistencies are detected, the plant goes into recycle mode and distribution is halted until correct values are restored. 

“The most important rule is, and was, and always will be ‘safety first’,” says Honer.  The facility has never been linked to an outbreak of waterborne disease, and now produces up to 5.5m gallons of drinking water every day – up to 35 per cent of the city’s consumption.

Namibians couldn’t survive without it, and as water shortages grip the planet, Windhoek’s insights and experience are more important than ever.

Interest from superpowers across the globe

In recent years, delegations from the US, France, Germany, India, Australia, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates have visited Windhoek seeking solutions to water shortages in their own countries. 

Megadrought conditions have gripped the US since 2001, and the Colorado River – which provides 40 million people with drinking water – has been running at just 50 per cent of its traditional flow. As a result, several states including Texas, California, Arizona and Colorado are beginning to embrace DPR.

Troy Walker is a water reuse practice leader at Hazen and Sawyer, an environmental engineering firm helping Arizona to develop its DPR regulations. He visited Windhoek last year. “It was about being able to see the success of their system, and then looking at some of the technical details and how that might look in a US facility or an Australian facility,” he said. “[Windhoek] has helped drive a lot of discussion in industry. [Innovation] doesn’t all have to come out of California or Texas.”

Pictured: The internal pipes and workings of Namibia's DPR plant. As water becomes scarcer in some parts, countries are looking to DPR for solutions. Image: Margaret Courtney-Clarke

Namibia has also helped overcome the biggest obstacle to DPR – public acceptance. Disgust is a powerful emotion, and sensationalist ‘toilet to tap’ headlines have dismantled support for water reuse projects in the past. Unfortunately, DPR’s biggest strength is also its biggest weakness, as the speed at which water can re-enter the system makes it especially vulnerable to prejudice, causing regulators to hesitate. “Technology has never been the reason why these projects don’t get built – it’s always public or political opposition,” says Patsy Tennyson, vice president of Katz and Associates, an American firm that specialises in public outreach and communications.

That’s why just a handful of facilities worldwide are currently doing DPR, with Windhoek standing alongside smaller schemes in the Philippines, South Africa and a hybrid facility in Big Spring, Texas. But that’s all changing. Drought and increased water scarcity worldwide are forcing us to change the way we think about water. 

Now, the US is ready to take the plunge, and in 2025, El Paso Water will begin operating the first ‘direct to distribution’ DPR facility in North America, turning up to 10m gallons of wasterwater per day into purified drinking water – twice as much as Windhoek. San Diego, Los Angeles, California, as well as Phoenix, Arizona are also exploring the technology."

Of course, DPR is not a silver bullet in the fight against climate change. It cannot create water out of thin air, and it will not facilitate endless growth. But it does help cities become more climate resilient by reducing their reliance on natural sources, such as the Colorado River. 

As other nations follow in Namibia’s footsteps, Windhoek may no longer take the lead after almost six decades in front.

“But Windhoek was the first,” Honer reminds me. “No one can take that away.”"

-via Positive.News, August 30, 2023

[summerlandenviormental]

Waste Management Services

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[probablyasocialecologist]

Plastic producers have known for more than 30 years that recycling is not an economically or technically feasible plastic waste management solution. That has not stopped them from promoting it, according to a new report. “The companies lied,” said Richard Wiles, president of fossil-fuel accountability advocacy group the Center for Climate Integrity (CCI), which published the report. “It’s time to hold them accountable for the damage they’ve caused.” Plastic, which is made from oil and gas, is notoriously difficult to recycle. Doing so requires meticulous sorting, since most of the thousands of chemically distinct varieties of plastic cannot be recycled together. That renders an already pricey process even more expensive. Another challenge: the material degrades each time it is reused, meaning it can generally only be reused once or twice. The industry has known for decades about these existential challenges, but obscured that information in its marketing campaigns, the report shows. The research draws on previous investigations as well as newly revealed internal documents illustrating the extent of this decades-long campaign. Industry insiders over the past several decades have variously referred to plastic recycling as “uneconomical”, said it “cannot be considered a permanent solid waste solution”, and said it “cannot go on indefinitely”, the revelations show. The authors say the evidence demonstrates that oil and petrochemical companies, as well as their trade associations, may have broken laws designed to protect the public from misleading marketing and pollution.

[mindblowingscience]

A new chemical process can essentially vaporize plastics that dominate the waste stream today and turn them into hydrocarbon building blocks for new plastics. The catalytic process, developed at the University of California, Berkeley, works equally well with the two dominant types of post-consumer plastic waste: polyethylene, the component of most single-use plastic bags; and polypropylene, the stuff of hard plastics, from microwavable dishes to luggage. It also efficiently degrades a mix of these types of plastics.

Continue Reading.

[determinate-negation]

The average American produces 1,704 pounds of garbage per year, roughly three times the global average, according to a new report by the research firm Verisk Maplecroft. Across 194 countries, the researchers found that the world produces 2.3 billion tons of municipal solid waste each year, which is enough to fill 822,000 Olympic-sized pools. Of this waste, just 16% is recycled, while 46% is disposed of unsustainably in ways that harm the environment.  [...] Countries like the US and Singapore are reaching their landfill capacity, while countries like China and Malaysia have refused to continue accepting trash exported from Western nations.  Although the United States accounts for 4% of the global population, it’s responsible for 12% of the municipal solid waste that’s created, and historically would ship a lot of trash to other countries.   China and India, meanwhile, account for 36% of the global population, but generate only 27% of all waste. 

also according to a lot of studies the majority of garbage in the US is food waste which can 100% be composted and is the most environmentally destructive when sent to a landfill because it creates methane

from this source

America has got a waste problem. An average American produces about 4.40 pounds of garbage per day and approximately three-quarters of a tonne per year. If you are thinking “this can’t possibly be right, there is no way I produce THAT MUCH”, get ready for another blow. The U.S.A holds the record of producing the highest amount of garbage in the world, more than Russia, India, and even China. All that trash has to end up somewhere and as a result, the 2,000 active landfills in the US are reaching their capacity. What will happen when we run out of the room? Well, let’s ask a better question. What can we do to manage our waste better and prevent a catastrophe? Overfilled landfills are a big problem. Some states decide to simply burn the landfills, as burning reduces the volume of the trash in the landfill significantly. This frees up a lot of space, but the problem of toxic gasses and fumes being released into the atmosphere persists. Not only do these gasses contribute to climate change, but they can also deteriorate human health and end up costing millions in medical expenses. On the other hand, simply leaving the landfills as they pose other issues. The chemical and biological reactions taking place in landfills can create a lot of issues as these chemicals leach into the ground and contaminate water that municipalities may extract for use in their water systems. The piles of organic garbage also release harmful methane, a greenhouse gas more 86 times more potent than carbon dioxide. So, what can be done to alleviate these issues?