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2.1 Topic g: Waste characterization

Waste characterization data specific to African cities are not generally available, though some regional evaluations have been made. Additionally, the income level of the generators has been shown to be correlated with the generation rate and composition of the MSW stream. This correlation has been established in case studies of cities in OECD countries and on the basis of GNP for countries as a whole. Such regional and global-level statistics may be the most reliable bases available for inferences about the characteristics of the MSW stream in Africa.

As cities consider upgrading their MSWM systems with international aid, system-specific characterization data assume a greater importance. As-delivered (wet basis) MSW from Accra, Ibadan, Dakar, Abidjan, and Lusaka shows a range of per-capita generation rates of 0.5-0.8 kg per day (compared to 1-2 kg per person per day in the OECD); putrescible organic content ranging from 35-80% (generally toward the higher end of this range); plastic, glass, and metals at less than 10%; and paper with a percentage in the low teens. The density and energy content of the waste stream are also common statistics of interest in MSW waste characterization. Densities in the range of 90 to 180 kilograms per cubic meter for uncompacted MSW are common in OECD case studies. MSW with a high moisture content, such as putrescible organic matter or MSW in areas of high precipitation, can have densities that are twice to three times these values. Thus densities in Africa may be expected to fall in the range of 180 to 540 kilograms per cubic meter. Compacted MSW, as delivered by collection vehicles with mechanical compactors, can have densities in the range of 180 to 420 kilograms per cubic meter, depending on the composition of the waste and the type of compacting equipment. Calorific values are reported to be low.

To the extent that these figures are generalizable, they indicate a waste stream of limited potential commercial value for the recovery of metals, glass, plastic, and paper. However, though the per-capita generation rates of these materials are relatively low, they may be present in sufficient quantities in the MSW streams of densely populated cities to warrant labor-intensive recovery ventures. As noted earlier, the high organic content suggests possible value as composting material. However, the viability of these schemes is likely to depend highly on end markets for their products. The heating contents reported make the waste stream unsuitable for energy recovery via incineration.

In summary, although waste characterization is a key component in any MSWM scheme, such data are not commonly compiled in cities across Africa. This may change as cities upgrade their MSWM systems. The limited available data suggest that the MSW stream in the typical African city at point of disposal is high in putrescible organic content. However, it is low in percentage of commercially recyclable components and too low in heating value for energy recovery by incineration.

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