VALOR PROJECT
The VALOR project is investigating potential recovery options for the Organic Fraction of the Municipal Solid Waste (OFMSW) and Bio-Stabilised residual waste (BSRW). We will fully diagnose the recovery options for MSW and validate their use by determining their benefits and potential environmental risks. Investigation of high value options will include the transformation to soil improver, biogas and biofuel. Bio-stabilised residual waste (BSRW) refers to the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) that has been composted to achieve a stability standard prior to landfilling. At present, BSRW is a waste and under current legislation can only be used as daily capping material in landfills or disposed by incineration.
Organic Fraction of the Municipal Solid Waste
Residual Waste (e.g mixed waste, black bin waste) is often treated in Mechanical and Biological Treatment (MBT) plants. The mechanical processing involves passing the waste through a trommel. The fine fraction produced from this process and designated Organic Fractions of Municipal Solid Waste (OFMSW).
Bio-Stabilised Residual Waste & Digestate
Generated by composting or anaerobic digestion of the OFMSW
The OFMSW are subject to biological treatment prior to disposal. This can be aerobic (composting) and anaerobic (anaerobic digestion) which produces bio-stabilised residual waste (BSRW) and digestate, respectively. Â
Once the biodegradability stability criteria is achieved can these residues be recovered as capping material in landfills or alternative use agreed with the enforcement body.
VALOR Conceptual Approach
Diagnostic tests are being carried out to evaluate the most suitable reuse/recover process for the OFMSW and BSRW.
