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Modernizing Waste Management: Replacing Outdated Waste Processing Methods

12 Sep 2024
EFW & Bioenergy Stage
Sustainability , Energy from Waste , Waste & Recycling , Tech & AI

The evolution of crushing and milling technology spans thousands of years, reflecting humanity's need to process materials. These methods have served us well, from ancient hammers and grinding stones to the sophisticated crushers of the Industrial Revolution. However, in today's context of ever-present and rising plastic, they are increasingly obsolete.

Historically, the need for material processing drove innovation. Early tools like hammers and grinding stones were succeeded by water wheels and windmills, which in turn gave way to the mechanical crushers of the Industrial Revolution. These innovations were crucial for handling larger volumes and harder materials, but they also marked the beginning of our reliance on size-reduction techniques. They were developed before plastic had been invented.

The 20th and 21st centuries have seen the rise of recycling, and the concept of the circular economy, motivated initially by a shortage of landfill capacity. As society moves into the second quarter of this century, the need for re-use materials, especially better plastic recycling, is an added driver. And yet, the waste industry is still using equipment designed for quarrying that was adapted for waste processing, leading to the widespread use of crushers and mills. These methods made sense in an era with less plastic and food waste. However, the environmental landscape has changed dramatically.

The awareness of microplastics' dangers has grown. Given these concerns, the continued use of equipment that produces microplastics is no longer defensible. Modern innovations like the Drycake Twister depackager offer a solution. These machines are designed to separate organic materials from waste cleanly, preserving plastic items intact and enabling efficient recycling. This technology minimizes the production of microplastics, addressing a crucial environmental and ethical concern.

Admittedly, transitioning to new equipment involves challenges. Decommissioning working machinery, investing in new models, and navigating the logistical hurdles of installation and commissioning are daunting tasks. Moreover, the financial implications—such as taking an accounting penalty for early write-offs—cannot be ignored. However, the long-term benefits far outweigh these difficulties.

New depackaging and separation technologies do come with a silver lining, because they can also bring both income and disposal cost savings. In this way, they may offer a remarkably short return on investment (ROI). The ability to recycle valuable plastic resins and reduce the cost of disposing of non-recyclable waste can make this transition economically viable. Furthermore, reducing landfills and incineration of organics contaminated waste aligns with the waste hierarchy and global sustainability goals.

In the realm of waste management and recycling, the Drycake TwisterTM has emerged as the ultimate depackager and organic separator, revolutionizing the industry with its cutting-edge technology and efficiency.

This innovative machine is engineered to streamline the process of separating organic materials from their packaging, ensuring that waste is minimized and resources are maximized.
The Twister's advanced design allows it to handle a diverse range of waste products, from food scraps to biodegradable packaging, with remarkable precision and speed. By employing a robust combination of mechanical and pneumatic systems, it effectively breaks down packaging materials while extracting valuable organic matter, which can then be repurposed for composting or bioenergy production.

This not only reduces landfill waste but also contributes to a more sustainable and circular economy. Businesses and municipalities adopting the Twister are seeing significant improvements in their waste processing capabilities, leading to cost savings and enhanced environmental stewardship.
As the demand for efficient waste management solutions continues to grow, the Twister Depackager and Organic Separator stands out as a pivotal tool in the quest for a greener future, making it an indispensable asset for any organization committed to sustainability.

Speakers
Mark Vanderbeken, Chairman - Drycake
Steve Last, Chartered Waste Manager - Drycake
View all ESS Agenda 2024