HomeMy WebLinkAboutGCR Waste Characterization MethodolgyGrand Central Recycling Waste Characterization Methodology
Objective
To determine the composition and quality of incoming waste materials—solid waste, green waste, and curbside recyclables—for operational optimization, contamination monitoring, and diversion
reporting.
1. Sampling Plan
1.1 Waste Stream Definition
Solid Waste: General municipal solid waste (MSW) excluding recyclables and organics.
Green Waste: Yard trimmings, leaves, branches, and other biodegradable organic waste.
Curbside Recycling: Commingled or sorted recyclables collected at the curb.
1.2 Sampling Frequency
Perform sampling quarterly (4 times/year) or as required by regulatory/reporting frameworks.
1.3 Sampling Size and Frequency
For each waste stream, sample 500–800 lbs. per load, with at least 3 samples per waste stream per sampling period for statistical validity.
Choose random incoming loads during regular operations.
2. Sample Collection & Handling
2.1 Collection
Place samples on the tipping floor using a forklift, loader, or manually.
Ensure randomness and representativeness of all material.
Use labeled bins to transport materials to the sorting area.
2.2 Safety Protocols
Use PPE (gloves, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, etc.).
Provide ventilation and first-aid in sorting area.
3. Sample Sorting & Categorization
3.1 Sorting Setup
Use a stable sorting table with bins labeled by material category.
Place tarps underneath to capture residuals and reduce cross-contamination.
3.2 Material Categories
Category Type
Materials Included
Paper
Cardboard (OCC), Mixed Paper, Newsprint, Office Paper
Plastics
PET (#1), HDPE (#2), LDPE (#4), Film, Plastic #3-7 Other Plastics
Metals
Aluminum Cans, Tin Cans, Steel, Other Scrap
Glass
Clear, Green, Brown
Organics
Food Waste (solid waste), Wood, Green Waste (for green stream)
Residuals
Non-recyclables, contaminants
Special Items
Textiles, E-waste, HHW, Diapers, etc.
4. Weighing & Data Recording
4.1 Weighing
Use calibrated scales for each sorted material category.
Record weights to the nearest 0.1 lb.
4.2 Data Logging
Use standardized data sheets or digital tablets.
Record:
Ticket number
Origin/ Route
Date/time
Material weights by category
Observations (e.g., contamination, odor, presence of sharps, or any hazardous waste)
5. Data Analysis
Calculations
Percent Composition by Weight for each category:
% Category= (Weight of Category/Total Sample Weight) X 100
Contamination Rate:
% Contamination = (Residuals/ Total Sample Weight) X 100
Recovery Potential: Estimate what percentage could be diverted or recycled.
5.2 Comparisons
Compare against:
Previous sampling periods
Regulatory targets
National benchmarks (e.g., EPA, CalRecycle)
6. Reporting
Generate a Waste Characterization Report including:
Methodology
Data Tables & Graphs
Material Category Breakdown
Contamination Analysis
7. Quality Assurance & Control
Cross-check weights by summing sorted materials and comparing to initial sample weight.