Recycling Product News July/August 2023, Volume 31, Number 5

A bold vision for tomorrow.

Now

©2023 HD Hyundai Infracore. All rights reserved. DEVELON is a brand of HD Hyundai Infracore; HD Hyundai Infracore is an affiliate of HD Hyundai.

ENGINEERED FOR CALGARY AGGREGATE RECYCLING

OPEN HOUSE

C&D WASTE WASH PLANT 250TPH

SEPTEMBER 7TH 8AM- 4PM CALGARY,

CDE and Calgary Aggregate Recycling are delighted to invite you to an Open House event at their plant in Calgary, Canada. You will meet a team of technical experts for a tour of the 250tph wet processing facilities, with a detailed demonstration of each step of the C&D waste and contaminated soils recycling process.

Want to learn more about this innovative project and view the plant in operation transforming waste materials into valuable recycled sand & aggregates?

Please scan the QR code or visit: cdegroup.com/calgary to register for this Open House.

34 COVER STORY OPTIMIZE RECYCLING OPERATIONS WITH TELEMATICS

24

THE SHIFT TOWARD URBAN MINING

Q&A: HOW SORTING AND SEPARATION EQUIPMENT IS BOOSTING THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY 26 20 RECYCLING IRIDIUM FOR A GREENER FUTURE

July/August 2023 | Volume 31, Number 5

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JULY/AUGUST 2023 | VOLUME 31 • NUMBER 5

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DESIGN ...

Because we know the Modern MRF is different for every facility.

Real-time data capture & analysis

Sorting Robot

Adaptative automated sorting

Optimized system Performance through Characterization

JOURNEY TOWARDS THE MODERN MRF DESIGN

Optical Sorter High throughput automated sorting

FROM THE EDITOR

MORE THAN UPCYCLING IS NEEDED TO COMBAT TEXTILE WASTE

Fashion trends are changing faster than ever, leading to an unprecedented increase in textile waste. The environmental impact of this waste is staggering with landfills bursting at the seams and chemicals leaching into our soil and waterways.

Textile recycling as a way to reduce this waste is not a new concept. For decades, we’ve been encouraged to donate our old clothes to thrift stores and charities or to repurpose and upcycle garments to give them a second life. But textile recycling needs to go beyond simply extending the lifespan of clothing in order to make any kind of meaningful change.

Despite its potential, textile recycling faces numerous challenges that hinder its widespread adoption. Clothing is often made up of different fibre blends, making it challenging to separate and process. Different fibres also require different recycling methods, and the presence of things such as zippers, buttons, and trims that need to be removed before recycling further complicates the process.

Infrastructure for textile recycling is still relatively limited compared to other recycling sectors, too. The collection, sorting, and processing capabilities required to handle large volumes of textiles are not readily available in many places which leads to logistical challenges and increased transportation costs. While progress has been made in textile recycling technologies, many of them are still in the early stages of development or are not viable on a large scale.

Textile recycling is not limited to clothing alone, and the recycling industry has expanded its focus to include other textile waste, such as mattresses and upholstery. According to a new project funded by the Mattress Recycling Council, recycled mattress textiles could be used to make electrodes for lithium batteries. In a three-year study at the National Institute for Materials Advancement at Pittsburg State University, researchers developed a process that transformed mattress textiles into conductive carbon materials used to make the anodes and cathodes in lithium–sulphur rechargeable batteries.

In Europe, the European Commission recently proposed mandatory EPR programs for textiles, making producers responsible for covering the costs associated with the management of textile waste. It will also incentivize companies to increase the circularity of their products during the design phase rather than waiting until the product reaches end-of-life.

Through the establishment of recycling facilities, upcycling

initiatives, and the rise of sustainable fashion, there has been a positive shift in the way we deal with textile waste. However, it requires a collective effort to bring lasting change. We need to invest in research and development to create advanced recycling technologies that can efficiently break down textiles and extract valuable materials. We need designers and manufacturers to collaborate in developing products that are designed with recyclability in mind using materials that can be easily disassembled and repurposed.

Textile recycling is challenging, but with the right research and technologies this waste could provide an inexpensive and widely abundant feedstock that could satisfy both current and emerging needs.

SLONE FOX Editor

For decades, we’ve been encouraged to donate our old clothes to thrift stores and charities, or to repurpose and upcycle garments to give them a second life. But textile recycling needs to go beyond simply extending the lifespan of clothing in order to make any kind of meaningful change.

The new model 4 E-Z log Baler is just what mid size scrap yards have been asking for! Priced right for any yard — small, mid size, or large!

Like the Model 3, the NEW Model 4 has no set up time and a very low cost to operate. The one man operations are all handled from the newly designed cab. With the 400º rotation crane and a reach of 27’ adding the continuous rotation grapple, it makes loading the larger chamber a breeze. Taking your loose scrap to a highly sought after shreddable log.

— Cycles in under 2 minutes!

— Produces up to 70 tons per day.

— Fully portable in the closed position.

— New seat design for more operator comfort.

CLOSED LOOP PARTNERS RECEIVES $10 MILLION INVESTMENT

Closed Loop Partners has received a $10 million investment in its Closed Loop Circular Plastics Fund from Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), a Japanese multinational banking and financial services institution. Closed Loop Partners says that this investment will help advance the recovery and recycling of rigid and flexible polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) plastics in the United States and Canada.

The Closed Loop Circular Plastics Fund focuses on PE, PP, and flexible plastics. The fund provides catalytic debt and equity financing to spur additional mainstream investments into recovery, recycling, and infrastructure that can help address recycling system bottlenecks. Fund performance is benchmarked according to a combination of financial and impact outcomes, including tons of PE and PP impacted and tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions avoided or reduced.

Since its launch in 2021, the Closed Loop Circular Plastics Fund has made several catalytic debts and equity investments to both private companies and public organizations, financing post-pilot scale projects that advance collection infrastructure, sortation capabilities, enabling technologies, and re-manufacturing of PE and PP plastics, including equity investment in Greyparrot, an AI waste analytics platform; a loan to Myplas USA, a recycling company building a 170,000-square-foot plastic film recycling plant in Minnesota; equity investment in Circular Services, a recycling and reuse company in North America; and a follow-on load to the Waste Commission of Scott County, a solid waste district in Iowa, to finance the purchase of new optical sorters.

Closed Loop Partners says that plastic waste is expected to triple by 2060 and the need for investments has grown even more urgent. Plastic recovery and recycling present an economic opportunity, and increasing plastics recovery can help meet an addressable market for plastics with what Closed Loop Partners says has potential revenue opportunities of $120 billion in the U.S. and Canada alone.

ANAERGIA TO BUILD MODERN FOOD WASTE AND WASTEWATER CO-DIGESTION FACILITY

Monterey One Water – the wastewater utility of northern Monterey County, California – will utilize Anaergia’s technology to make renewable energy from food waste as well as wastewater.

The project will significantly expand the anaerobic digestion capacity at Monterey One Water’s regional treatment plant (RTP) and will provide organic waste receiving and pre-processing equipment. This will allow the utility to receive and co-digest food waste in existing digesters currently used to process wastewater biosolids. When anaerobically digested, the waste produces renewable biogas, which is then used to generate electricity and heat at the Monterey One plant.

The project will return a mothballed anaerobic digester to service and provide Anaergia digestion tank mixing technology to process food waste with biosolids without impacting critical wastewater operations. The new technology will simultaneously improve performance and save energy. Along with the ability to co-digest food waste with biosolids, Monterey One will benefit from a significant expansion of digester capacity to provide operational flexibility.

The project will increase biogas production from the plant’s four digesters by more than 150 percent. This increase will be used to make up to 1.6 MW of renewable electricity via on-site combined heat and power (CHP) engines. The increased energy production will provide more than 100 percent of the plant’s power needs.

The upgraded anaerobic digestion facility and new waste-receiving equipment will assist the region’s solid waste industry by enabling the diversion of food waste from regional landfills to advance compliance with California’s SB1383 legislation.

CalRecycle, California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, will provide $4,218,900 in grant funds, minimizing the impact on the utility’s ratepayers by offsetting most of the project’s cost. Work on the project is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2023 and be completed by the third quarter of 2024.

NEW LABELLING PLATFORM CLARIFIES LOCAL RECYCLING INFORMATION

The Recycling Partnership is launching Recycle Check, a package-specific labelling platform that provides upto-date recycling information to U.S. consumers. The platform offers the ability to enter a zip code or allow location permissions and receive a clear yes or no answer about whether to recycle a specific item where you are. It also enables consumer brands to navigate the complex recycling landscape, reduce label changes, and leverage existing labelling systems.

Recycle Check is powered by The Recycling Partnership’s National Recycling Database, a resource that centralizes recycling access data from over 9,000 U.S. community programs and covers 97 percent of the U.S. population. Recycle Check connects local information with brand and package-specific details that evolve with the changing recycling landscape.

The Recycling Partnership says that Recycle Check was designed to complement existing labelling systems. The Recycling Partnership and GreenBlue are collaborating with early adopters of the program to pilot the use of the How2Recycle label and the Recycle Check QR code together on product packaging. The Recycling Partnership says that it is also working closely with the Consumer Brands Association to offer Recycle Check through its SmartLabel program.

General Mills and Horizon Organic are some early adopters of Recycle Check. In the later part of 2023, General Mills will feature Recycle Check with the How2Recycle label on select packaging, allowing consumers to check local recycling availability for all package components.

OPTIMIZE OPERATIONS

How machine monitoring systems can help you better manage your material handler.

Read more on page 34.

NOVELIS TO SUPPLY ALUMINUM BEVERAGE CAN SHEET TO COCACOLA BRANDS

Novelis has signed a new long-term contract to supply Coca-Cola’s authorized North American bottlers with aluminum can sheet for Coca-Cola’s brands. This includes supply from Novelis’ plant in Bay Minette, Alabama, which is currently under construction and expected to begin commissioning in 2025. Under the agreement, Coca-Cola’s bottlers have committed to purchasing a confidential volume of aluminum can sheet over a multi-year period.

The contract includes an agreement for closed-loop recycling. Through closed-loop recycling programs, Novelis directly takes back the manufacturing scrap generated during the can making process, recycles it, and converts it into new can sheet which is then made into new beverage cans. In addition to this continuous loop, Novelis says that it recycles more than 80 billion used beverage cans per year into aluminum for beverage packaging.

Novelis expects aluminum beverage can sheet demand to increase at a three percent compounded annual growth rate from 2022 to 2031. The demand growth is driven by consumer preference for more sustainable products, size variety, and more beverage types being packed in cans.

With this agreement, the majority of the Novelis’ Bay Minette plant capacity for beverage cans is already contracted.

REPUBLIC SERVICES COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF SELECT GFL OPERATIONS

Republic Services has completed its acquisition of GFL Environmental’s Colorado and New Mexico operations. The operations include recycling, collection, and disposal assets in four Colorado markets – Denver, Colorado Springs, Durango, and Cañon City – as well as the Bloomfield, New Mexico, market.

MACK TRUCKS COMPLETES $3.2 MILLION REMODEL OF ITS MACK EXPERIENCE CENTER

Mack Trucks has remodelled its Mack Experience Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The $3.2 million renovation features a reconfigured floor plan, facility enhancements, and additional road obstacles to the on-site test track.

The remodelled 160,000-square-foot facility is on 60 acres of property and offers a new welcome area, brand room, briefing room, and a new second boardroom. The test track, where peo-

ple can drive Mack trucks on various terrain, was also renovated to include a mud and rock pit area to demonstrate vocational capabilities.

The new brand room is a space where both digital and physical assets can be shared with users, and the second boardroom offers another meeting space, which will be helpful when multiple customers are hosted at the facility. This boardroom also gives the user the first view of their trucks. The truck can be pulled up to the room, and the translucent glass partition becomes transparent for better viewing.

The briefing room is where users learn about products, services, and support. The enclosed space is large enough that a Mack Class 8 vehicle can be in the room during discussions. The product showroom now features a hydraulic lift so users can view the underside of the chassis.

Additionally, the Mack Historical Museum also was recently upgraded with a new gallery floor, graphics, and heritage displays. The museum opened to the public on June 12.

ARCELORMITTAL TO SUPPLY RECYCLED STEEL TO GM

ArcelorMittal North America will supply General Motors (GM) with XCarb recycled and renewably produced (RRP) steel. ArcelorMittal says that XCarb offers significantly reduced carbon dioxide emissions compared to much of the carbon steel available in North America.

ArcelorMittal’s XCarb steel is made via the electric arc furnace (EAF) route and contains a minimum of 70 percent scrap – with up to 90 percent scrap – and does not use carbon offsets to achieve the reduced carbon intensity. ArcelorMittal says that XCarb’s lower carbon dioxide intensity has been independently verified with an accompanying life cycle analysis (LCA) that

includes Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.

XCarp RRP steel will be supplied from ArcelorMittal Dofasco in Hamilton, Ontario, and shipments are expected to begin during the second quarter of 2023.

CALL2RECYCLE REACHES OVER 40 MILLION KILOGRAMS OF BATTERIES RECYCLED

Call2Recycle Canada has celebrated passing over 40 million kilograms of used batteries diverted from landfills and recycled since the creation of the program in 1997. This milestone is the result of a number of long-term collaborations across many Canadian sectors to build a sustainable battery recycling economy and reduce solid waste and carbon emissions. As reliance on battery-powered devices – from laptops to household appliances, e-bikes, and electric vehicles – continues to grow, this is likely to cause a sharp increase in the need for batteries to be responsibly managed at end-of-life over the coming decades. Call2Recycle has been working to reduce these waste-related emissions by partnering with battery manufacturers, retailers, provincial governments, and municipalities to build an efficient collection program and support battery initiatives everywhere across the country as Canada gears up for net-zero emission strategies toward 2050.

PERFORMANCE DELIVERED

• PERFECT MIX OF PRESSURE (UP TO 4000 PSI) AND SPEED (UP TO 225 HP)

• HOPPER SIZED FOR THE LARGEST OF OCC AND TO MINIMIZE OVER FEEDING HIGH GRADES

• MANIFOLD BLOCK DESIGNED WITH REPLACEMENT CARTRIDGE VALVES THAT KEEP THE POWER UNIT COOLER AND QUIETER

• OPTIONAL STAMPER - TO MAXIMIZE RUNNING IN AUTOMATIC WITH BULKY GRADES

NTEGRI

RIO TINTO INVESTS $1.4 BILLION TO EXPAND SUSTAINABLE ALUMINUM PRODUCTION

Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne, has signed a partnership agreement with Rio Tinto. The new partnership will implement an agenda for the company to strengthen its production of green aluminum. This includes the construction of the first Western aluminum smelter in a decade, as well as the industrial-scale deployment of its ELYSIS smelting technology across Rio Tinto aluminum operations in Canada.

Rio Tinto will invest $1.4 billion to expand its aluminum smelter equipped with the company’s low-carbon emission AP60

electrolysis technology at the Complexe Jonquière in Saguenay, Quebec. Rio Tinto says that the project will create up to 1,000 jobs during the peak construction period, and about 100 permanent jobs will be maintained thanks to the new aluminum smelter.

The Government of Canada says that the collaboration will explore the opportunity for value-added mineral processing and materials manufacturing for Canadian technologies and industries along with promoting circular economy principles by capturing critical minerals from waste streams.

ISRI’S SCRAP SPECIFICATIONS GUIDE IS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

ISRI has launched a digital version of the ISRI Specifications Guide, providing an online framework for buyers and sellers of recycled materials and products across the globe. Due to a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration this resource is now accessible online to anyone at any time.

Specifications are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure they meet the demands of the domestic and global marketplace. ISRI will continue to update the specifications as the flow of recycled materials evolves with the introduction of new products into the supply chain. The website includes definitions of general terms and guidelines for recycled material transactions, improved options for user input, faster response times, and request tracking.

SPOTLIGHT INTRODUCTIONS & UPDATES

TOMRA Recycling Sorting SORTING SYSTEM

Designed for the high-throughput sorting of aluminum alloys, TOMRA Recycling Sorting’s AUTOSORT PULSE comes equipped with dynamic LIBS technology for the high-precision sorting of aluminum scrap by alloy types. The sorting system can be used across a wide range of applications to create high-quality secondary metals. The machine’s 3D object scanning detects each object regardless of its size and surface while multiple single-point scans enable sharper detection of materials in any condition. Due to its AI-based object singulation feature, overlapping and adjacent objects can be accurately separated to maximize yield.

Mack Trucks COLLECTION TRUCK

Developed for waste customers who want an alternative-fuel solution or that generate their own fuel, the Mack Granite CNG model features a 320-hp Cummins L9N engine matched with an Allison 4500 fully automatic 6-speed transmission. The CNG Mack Granite truck is only available as an axle-back model and features self-heating LED headlamps that offer brighter illumination and improved forward visibility by up to 29 percent and peripheral visibility by up to 50 percent. The integrated heating elements automatically sense the temperature and turn on to keep ice and snow from building up in colder environments, and an anti-fog coating prevents condensation in warmer environments.

Caterpillar LANDFILL COMPACTOR

The Cat 836 landfill compactor is designed for performance and reliability in harsh working environments. Engineering upgrades to the axles and transmission help to increase the durability of the heavy-duty main structures that support multiple life cycles. The Cat torque converter with lock-up clutch eliminates torque converter losses while lowering system heat and transferring more power to the ground for improved traction. Its advanced productivity electronic control system (APECS) transmission control helps the compactor to achieve greater momentum on grades and delivers fuel savings by carrying momentum through shift points.

Sorting system

Collection truck

Landfill compactor

AMP Robotics ROBOTICS SYSTEM

AMP Cortex-C is a compact version of AMP’s AI-guided robotics system. With a small footprint, the easy-to-install robot is designed to provide MRFs and plastic reclamation facilities with a consistent sortation solution for tight locations that are hard to staff, or where existing labour could be redistributed. Cortex-C is adaptable to an array of conveyor belt sizes, angles, and configurations without the need for costly retrofits or downtime. Cortex-C shares parts and components with the standard Cortex system, requiring minimal service to streamline the fleet within a facility.

Screencore TRACKED JAW CRUSHER

Screencore’s XJ Dual-Power tracked jaw crusher features a remote control feeder and a remote unblock facility, as well as hydraulic fold-and-lock Hardox hopper sides. The XJ is a diesel-electric 1,000 mm x 650 mm (40 inches x 27 inches) jaw crusher designed for processing and recycling construction materials in a compact and easily transportable machine. Other features include a jaw level sensor, electric plug-in, push-button hydraulic CSS wedge adjustment, and a bolted mainframe jaw construction. In addition, for inner city material recycling operations the crusher is equipped with a dust suppression system, an overband magnet, and an optional deflector plate.

Jaw crusher

Robotics system

RECYCLING IRIDIUM FOR A GREENER FUTURE

MCCOL METALS PROVIDES A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION TO HELP FUEL THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY

BY SAMANTHA HARDING

After years of research, McCol Metals has developed expertise in the sustainable recovery and recycling of iridium. The company has developed an advanced process to effectively facilitate the sustainable recovery and recycling of iridium from titanium substrates – more specifically, from spent mixed metal oxide (MMO) anodes.

In the four years since its commercialization, McCol has recycled 12,000 troy ounces (oz t) of iridium oxide and counting. McCol Metals’ innovative platinum group metals (PGMs) recycling process is effectively working to reduce strain on global iridium supplies during the accelerated growth of the hydrogen electrolyzer market, and beyond. Its advanced methods have positioned McCol as an internationally recognized leader in the global green economy, particularly during a time when the shift to green energy has never been more important.

WHY IRIDIUM?

Widely utilized for its high melting point and strong corrosion resistance, iridium is a rare metal that is in scarce global supply. Like other PGMs, iridium is known for its purity and unique catalytic properties.

Platinum group metals are used in an extensive range of diverse applications and industries, both existing and unexplored, ranging from the automotive sector and electric fuel cell technology, to luxury goods. In addition to its traditional uses – including in spark plugs, dip pens, and tooth fillings – iridium and iridium alloys are increasing in demand, particularly within the electrical and electrochemical sectors.

Although iridium has a range of uses, worldwide demand has exceeded, and will continue to exceed, the current production rate of mined iridium; this drives the need for sustainable solutions to bridge the gap.

THE ROLE OF IRIDIUM IN GREEN ENERGY TECHNOLOGY

As global efforts actively shift toward a clean energy transition, hydrogen has emerged as a promising carbon-free fuel capable of cleaning up difficult-to-decarbonize sectors. One of the key hydrogen production technologies – proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis, also referred to PEM electrolyzers – relies on iridium as a critical input.

Within a PEM electrolyzer, iridium acts as a catalyst that drives a chemical reaction and improves overall efficacy. Of the various electrolyzers available, PEM electrolyzers are particularly suitable for clean energy applications as they pair well with variable renewable electricity resources like wind and solar. Therefore, iridium plays a pivotal role in driving the chemical reactions within PEM electrolyzers, making it essential for sustainable energy solutions.

Inevitably, as the demand for clean hydrogen increases, so does the demand for iridium. Yet, at the current rate of global production, there is not enough iridium to develop PEM electrolyzer technology at the rates necessary to match the expected growth. So, how do we move toward the inevitable green transition in our economy without straining the already struggling PGMs markets? Cue McCol Metals.

RECYCLING PGMS: A SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION

To best understand the environmental impact of McCol’s process, the company commissioned Fundamental Inc. and Internat Energy Solutions Canada to conduct a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment (LCA) back in 2022. In short, cradle-to-gate is an important term in the environmental footprint method LCA. It’s an LCA model that assesses a product’s environmental footprint from raw materials extraction until it leaves the factory gate.

The LCA offered a holistic environmental assessment of McCol’s proprietary iridium recovery and recycling process in an effort to demonstrate its carbon footprint and environmental performance associated with the extraction and processing, transportation, and manufacturing of iridium. Results of the LCA showed that McCol’s output of iridium (as iridium oxide) has a footprint of 24.5 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (kg CO2e) as compared with mined and refined iridium, which has a footprint of 78,559 kg CO2e. This is a 99.97 percent reduction of greenhouse gasses.

Furthermore, given that McCol also recycles titanium plates to manufacture new anodes, its process results in a 45fold reduction of emissions associated with the production of titanium to make the plates (per oz t of iridium). The LCA also confirmed that net negative greenhouse gas emissions – 1,094 kg CO2 eq per oz t of iridium recovered and recycled – were observed as a result of the avoided titanium primary metal production. These results highlight the significant impor-

tance and benefits of end-of-life recycling of iridium.

As climate change continues to rear its ugly head around the world, McCol Metals remains committed to pioneering the path forward in the recovery and recycling of iridium in addition to other PGMs. In a world with endless clean growth potential, creating value from waste has never been more important.

SAMANTHA HARDING is the director of marketing and communications at McCol Metals which specializes in platinum group metals recovery.

Inevitably, as the demand for clean hydrogen increases, so does the demand for iridium. Yet, at the current rate of global production, there is not enough iridium to develop PEM electrolyzer technology at the rates necessary to match the expected growth.

Widely used for its strong corrosion resistance, iridium is in scarce global supply.

NEW TECHNOLOGY ENABLES PAPER CUP RECYCLING

FCC INSTALLS ROBOTIC SORTING UNIT TO IMPROVE FOOD AND BEVERAGE CARTON RECYCLING IN DALLAS

FCC Environmental Services, a waste management provider in the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, has installed new AMP Robotics sorting technology at its materials recovery facility. This technology will enable the MRF to start accepting and sorting paper cups and more efficiently capture food and beverage cartons from residents throughout the greater Dallas area. This will also ensure that the valuable fibre found in both types of containers can go on to make new paper-based products. Once paper cups and cartons enter the recycling system, they can be used by mills to make new paper products that consumers use every day, like paper towels, toilet paper, napkins, and even new cups.

Council of North America (CCNA), the Foodservice Packaging Institute (FPI), and the NextGen Consortium.

“With the installation of this new robotic sorting technology, we are proud to expand and improve our recycling capabilities and offer our customers in the Dallas metropolitan area the opportunity to recycle paper cups and cartons,” said Bruce Magnuson, FCC’s senior general manager.

“This robotic sorting and AI is a great example of how technology can help improve recycling and ultimately contribute to our circular economy by capturing more recyclable materials,” said Larine Urbina, vice president of communications for the Carton Council. “We are proud to work with FCC to embrace innovation to expand recycling. Collaboration with others throughout the recycling value chain is a cornerstone of the Carton Council’s strategy.”

MRFs have multiple options for managing paper cups and cartons. While many MRFs include cups and cartons in mixed paper bales, FCC has opted to sort this material to a higher-value poly-grade bale. The new AMP robot plays a crucial role in mechanical recovery and makes the sorting of these materials for the higher-value market possible.

“Strengthening recycling infrastructure is vital to creating a more circular future for packaging. The NextGen Consortium is thrilled to partner with FCC and other industry leaders to provide grant funding for new recycling technology that can help keep more valuable packaging, like cups and cartons, in circulation and reduce waste,” said Kate Daly, head of the Center for the Circular Economy at Closed Loop Partners, the managing partner of the NextGen Consortium.

FCC joins a growing trend of MRFs and communities that are including paper cups and food and beverage cartons as part of their residential recycling programs. This initiative was made possible by a collaborative equipment grant from the Carton

“Our equipment grant program is designed to help organizations invest in new recycling infrastructure and drive innovation in waste management. We are excited to see the impact it is having in the Dallas metro area expanding recycling to nearly half a million households,” said Natha Dempsey, president of the Foodservice Packaging Institute.

The fibre found in food and beverage cartons can be used to make new paper-based products.

This robotic sorting and AI is a great example of how technology can help improve recycling and ultimately contribute to our circular economy by capturing more recyclable materials.

Larine Urbina

VP of Communications, Carton Council of North America

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THE CRITICAL RAW MATERIALS ACT AND THE SHIFT TOWARD URBAN MINING

ROBOTICS AND AI ARE PLAYING A CRITICAL ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE E-WASTE RECYCLING

BY TOMASO MANCA

Earlier this year, the European Commission released the Critical Raw Materials Act which outlines proposed regulations to ensure a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials (CRM). These materials are essential for the economy, but are largely reliant on imports from foreign countries. This act reflects a clear direction in developed countries toward urban mining – the extraction of valuable metals and resources directly from electronic waste through recycling processes – as a substitute for traditional mining.

CHALLENGES AND RISKS

While this transition is both inevitable and desirable, it comes with challenges and risks that must not be underestimated. Optimizing recycling processes and recovering reusable materials in an economically sustainable manner is crucial, as is the implementation of new legislation. However, there is also a risk of social issues arising or worsening.

For instance, the Agbogbloshie landfill in Accra, Ghana, which theoretically ceased operations in 2021, employed impoverished individuals – often children – who worked amidst mountains of electronic waste that was shipped to Ghana from more developed nations under the false label of “second-hand devices.” This had devastating consequences for their safety and health.

Robotics and artificial intelligence are invaluable tools to facilitate compliance with regulations, ensure legality, achieve economic sustainability, and promote best practices in the recycling and recovery of electronic waste. These cutting-edge

technologies offer concrete solutions to address the challenges faced by the industry. Adapting and reinventing existing automation technologies for effective waste treatment processes poses a unique challenge.

Unlike the standardized processes used in manufacturing millions of identical objects, the recycling industry lacks standardization due to the diverse range of electronic devices. Each manufacturer designs and develops devices uniquely, making universal dismantling processes nearly impossible.

Consequently, shredding has been adopted as a faster and simpler method for material recovery, but it results in lower material yields and shredded waste that is contaminated with toxic substances. This is where the latest developments in robotics and artificial intelligence make a difference.

ROBOTICS AND AI IN E-WASTE RECYCLING

Robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence have extensive applications in the recycling of electronic waste. The true strength of AI lies in its ability to learn a decision-making process by studying a few examples, and then generalize and apply it to similar but unseen contexts.

Consider, for example, the process of unscrewing screws on the rear covers of flat-screen televisions. This step is necessary to remove the panel and recover the printed circuit boards inside. Each television will have screws of different colours, shapes, and positions on the device. Thanks to artificial intelligence, it is possible to teach the system the

Unlike the standardized processes used in manufacturing millions of identical objects, the recycling industry lacks standardization due to the diverse range of electronic devices. Each manufacturer designs and develops devices uniquely, making universal dismantling processes nearly impossible.

general concept of screws and enable the robot to recognize and locate the screws, even on television models it has never encountered before. This allows the robot to unscrew them autonomously and is the concept implemented in HIRO TEIA, HIRO Robotics’ system for the treatment of flat-screen monitors and televisions.

Robots can also be used to classify and sort electronic boards based on the value of their components, optimizing material extraction. HIRO NISA, for example, employs a rapid

delta robot to efficiently sort electronic boards into separate output bags.

Furthermore, robots can handle the disassembly of solar panels, which will constitute a significant portion of e-waste in the near future. They can also be utilized to identify lithium-ion batteries in mixed waste streams, reducing the risk of fires in recycling facilities. Another area where robots are poised to make a difference is the recycling of electric vehicle batteries, which are increasingly prevalent in the global market.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

There is an urgent need to make recycling processes economically viable. Approximately 83 percent of the 56 million metric tons of e-waste generated worldwide each year is currently untreated and improperly recycled, according to 2019 data from the Global E-Waste Monitor. By strengthening the capabilities of recycling plants through robotics and artificial intelligence, we can process more waste streams and recover a higher percentage of valuable materials. This will result in fewer exports of waste to underdeveloped countries or environmental dispersal, as well as a reduced environmental impact of traditional mining. Robotics and artificial intelligence truly hold the key to transforming electronic waste into a valuable resource for our communities.

HIRO TEIA, a frame dismantling robot.

TOMASO MANCA is the co-founder and marketing director of HIRO Robotics, a producer of robotics for e-waste recycling.

AI can learn a decision-making process and then apply it to similar contexts, such as unscrewing screws on flat-screen televisions.

Optimizing recycling processes and recovering reusable materials in an economical manner is crucial.

Q & A SORTING AND SEPARATION EQUIPMENT’S ROLE IN BOOSTING THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND FIGHTING THE LABOUR SHORTAGE

With labour shortages negatively impacting almost all sectors of the recycling industry, recyclers are relying more and more on automation to fill this gap. Machines such as optical sorters are increasingly being used in lieu of manual sorting so that human workers can be utilized elsewhere for maximum efficiency.

I caught up with Ty Rhoad, regional director of the Americas for TOMRA Recycling Sorting, to discuss the role that sorting equipment plays in addressing the labour shortage, as well as other pain points such as material contamination and film waste.

BY SLONE FOX, EDITOR Slone Fox Ty Rhoad

What are some of the most prominent challenges facing the recycling industry currently, and how does TOMRA equipment address these issues?

Labour continues to be the top challenge facing the industry, and there is no end in sight. Increasing circuit automation through the incorporation of optical sorters – both on the front end and back end of the circuit – can help to ease these labour shortages. Automation can also help to remove workers from the mundane task of hand sorting so that they can be reassigned to a safer, better position

for their skill sets.

Cleaner material is also a major pain point for many recyclers in two ways. The need for recycled material continues to rise, and to meet these targets recyclers often must source recyclable materials containing a higher amount of contaminants. Secondly, recyclers must produce higher quality recycled materials meeting high purity standards. The advancements made in sensor technology and software developed to analyze materials with optical sorters, specifically with TOMRA’s AUTOSORT, can be the answer to a better sortation.

Finally, film is a growing concern in the industry. Working closely with plant designers and optical sorter suppliers to analyze the incoming feed can help to ease the pain of moving film through the facility.

Are there any emerging or innovative developments in sorting and separation that could potentially disrupt traditional methods in the recycling industry?

I would be remiss in not mentioning artificial intelligence, or AI, here. AI is not only having a tremendous impact on our industry today and is the hot topic of the moment, but it affects just about everything we see and touch in our everyday lives. If you’ve ever used Google to search for an item, you’ve used AI.

However, TOMRA has leveraged AI for decades in our optical sorters to help increase sorting accuracy and material purity. But the most recent developments with AI’s Deep Learning massive dataset is what is opening the doors to more advanced sorting accuracy and removing contaminants from the most complex material feed. Regardless of whether the optical sorter is using a valve block to eject material or an arm for the final QA material check, these machines are leveraging the capabilities provided by the

Deep Learning datasets of AI.

For instance, we recently combined our AUTOSORT technology with our deeplearning-based sorting add-on, GAIN, to create a solution that distinguishes between and sorts different types of wood. A primary application for this technology is sorting non-processed wood (Wood A) from processed wood products like MDF, HDF and OSB, and chipboard. TOMRA was the first company in the world to employ deep learning AI to detect and separate different wood types, and we’ll launch more applications in the future.

In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the waste management industry in the coming years?

Working for a global company that provides some of the best sorting technologies for the industry, partnering with the best plant builders in North America, and working with passionate customers driven to advance the circular economy – this question gives me both my greatest frustration and my biggest motivating

TOMRA’s INNOSORT FLAKE sorting polyolefins.

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factor each day. It’s the unrealized potential due to the lack of a full commitment to recycling and advancing the circular economy.

I think most agree that recycling is a must for our future as well as the following generations. However, a full commitment to the circularity of the industry, in my opinion, just isn’t there. It starts at the producer level in offering packaging that is more recyclable, carries through to the consumer who has a responsibility to recycle rather than throw it away, and includes the infrastructure of collection and recycling. This is one reason why we see plastics recycling rates below 10 percent. I believe a bigger commitment must be made to be truly successful.

We have seen that legislation can be a great accelerator to advancing a more circular economy. For instance, we see California being one of the frontrunners in the U.S. when it comes to recycling legislation. We recently worked with VAN DYK and Santa Barbara County to install a system at the Resource Center designed to meet the state’s stringent organics recycling diversion targets set for 2025. Plus, it recovers valuable recyclable commodities from municipal solid waste that would have been landfilled just a couple of years ago.

How can sorting and separation equipment be leveraged to promote a more circular economy?

I think it comes down to getting the most out of the recycled material. What I mean is you want the cleanest, most effective feedstock to be recycled. To achieve this, sorting and separation must occur, and TOMRA technology has a proven, decades-long track record of success. And our equipment is designed compact, so it can be fitted into an existing circuit just as easily as it can be designed into an overall solution for a new circuit installation.

I just mentioned plastics, and the plastics industry demands the highest purity requirements. Only the purest fractions can be used for the extrusion process. Today’s optical technology can help advance sorting recycled materials to be extrusion-ready flakes. Additionally, optical sorters can help recyclers take advantage

of market opportunities.

As an example, we’re working with Greenpath Enterprises in California to pioneer a mechanical sorting solution for mixed polyolefins. We’re inserting our INNOSORT FLAKE technology into the existing line to identify and separate mixed polyolefin caps from carbonated and non-carbonated beverage bottles. Polypropylene and polyethylene together are the most abundant plastic family, but the market is limited for valuable applications for mixed polyolefins. By using the flake sorters to sort by both polymer type and colour, Greenpath’s vision is to create the same type of mature recycling system for bottle closures that exists today for bottle recycling.

What role does consumer behaviour and public awareness play in maximizing the effectiveness of sorting and separation equipment and reducing contamination? In your opinion, what still needs to be done?

The consumer plays a significant role in developing an effective recycling program and reducing contamination of post-consumer materials. It basically starts with the consumer, and consumer behaviour starts at the collection point or disposal point, depending on how you look at it.

The most critical step to take is educating the consumer as to what can and cannot be recycled. “What can I recycle?” is still the biggest question I hear from people. Plus, it varies from location to location as to what materials are accepted for recycling. Therefore, education is the most important first step. Equally as important is the development of a collection infrastructure that makes it easier for the consumer to recycle. Right now, we still have a long way to go in making it easy for most people to return recyclable materials. I believe with improved education and the expansion of collection points for materials, recycling can grow tremendously.

What new developments can we expect to see from TOMRA in the coming years?

From improving sensors, to improving our software, to expanding into different market segments, TOMRA continues to innovate our technologies. We are continuing to leverage the deep learning subset of AI to expand applications for our GAIN technology. We began by purifying post-consumer polyethylene (PE) by removing PE-silicone cartridges and non-PE objects, and then we expanded GAIN for sorting wood chips. In the near term, look for TOMRA’s future expansion of GAIN technology to advance sorting purity across different applications.

In June, we made significant strides in aluminum sorting with the introduction of our AUTOSORT PULSE with dynamic LIBS technology, or laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. It’s designed for the high-throughput sorting of aluminum alloys. By being able to sort between 5xxx and 6xxx series aluminum alloys, we’re recovering pure mono-material fractions from mixed scrap to advance further processing into virgin-like material with high recycled content.

Also, look for digitization to play a more important role in helping plant operators increase profitability. Our cloud-based data platform, TOMRA Insight, allows facilities to use data to optimize the sorting process using near-live monitoring. The critical sorting data provided by Insight allows managers to anticipate operational issues, see future maintenance requirements, and be more in control of the entire sorting line. RPN

TOMRA’s AUTOSORT and GAIN processing wood.

THE CHALLENGES OF SORTING AND RECYCLING TEXTILES

FAST FASHION IS FUELLING A DECLINE IN GARMENT LONGEVITY AS PRODUCTION SORES

Only a tiny fraction of discarded textiles are recycled. While the clothing industry has doubled production in the last 15 years, the amount of times that garments are worn has fallen by more than 30 percent. At the same time, the rising demand for low-cost fast fashion is driving a decline in the quality of the materials, which makes them more difficult to reuse or recycle.

According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, it is estimated that 114 million tonnes of textile waste are generated every year. Of the clothing that is collected for recycling, 12 percent is downcycled into lower-value applications, such as insulation material, and less than one percent is used to make new clothing in a closed-loop circular economy. The high content of polyester in fast fashion also means that an increasing quantity of discarded textiles are incinerated in waste-to-energy plants because of its high calorific value.

THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF TEXTILE WASTE

The improper disposal of textiles can result in them being released into the environment, endangering wildlife and marine life. Large quantities of plastic microfibres are also leaked into the ocean as a result of washing clothing, accounting for 35 percent of microplastic pollution.

Additionally, clothing is made of different fabrics, fixtures, and accessories, such as buttons or zips, that contain a variety of raw materials – combinations of natural and synthetic fibres, plastics, and metals. This makes disposing of clothing a complicated matter.

“The recycling industry requires pure fractions or very specific mixtures,” explains Annika Ludes, engineer for digital solutions at STADLER. “This means removing the fixtures and accessories from the fabric. The different materials in the garment – the outside fabric, the lining, the seams – need to be separated, then the different fibres in each fabric must be sorted.”

Dr. Bastian Küppers Engineer for Digital Business Development, STADLER

Textile sorting is done manually, and only a small portion of the output material is suitable for recycling. However, research is ongoing on automating the process with the aim of producing the high-quality fractions required to address the recycling challenge.

THE PATH TO A TEXTILE CIRCULAR ECONOMY

In 2017, STADLER, in partnership with TOMRA, designed and built a small pilot project plant in Avesta, Sweden, in the second phase of the government-funded Swedish Innovation Platform for Textile Sorting (SIPTex) project, which aims to develop a sorting solution tailored to the needs of textile recyclers and the garment industry. This was followed in 2020 with the third phase of the project which is capable of

Because of the nature of the textile material fed into the plant, the feeding system and dosing are very important to the success of the sorting process.

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achieving the purity and recovery required for recycling and reutilization.

This facility, located in Malmö, processes pre-consumer waste from textile producers and post-consumer waste. The material is delivered in bales weighing from 350 to 500 kilograms and the plant has the capacity to process up to 4.5 tonnes/hour in one line.

The process starts with the waste textiles entering the plant in batches where it is dosed and fed by conveyor belts into four sensor-based TOMRA AUTOSORT units.

“Because of the nature of the textile material fed into the plant, the feeding system and dosing are very important to the success of the sorting process,” explains Dr. Bastian Küppers, engineer for digital business development at STADLER. “The STADLER dosing drum features mechanical components specially designed to handle the soft, flexible textile materials – of various shapes and unpredictable sizes – prone to tangling. Similarly, the design and layout of the conveyor belts, hoppers, and chutes need to be designed to avoid tangling of long pieces of fabric.”

The TOMRA near-infrared sorting technology is also key to the process and capable of recognizing and differentiating various types of textiles in a first step. A second optical sorter is added for further cleaning of impurities.

As the textile industry moves toward a circular economy that is driven by public opinion and legislation, the demand for textile sorting equipment is set to grow at an accelerated pace.

OPTIMIZE RECYCLING OPERATIONS WITH TELEMATICS

HOW MACHINE MONITORING SYSTEMS CAN HELP YOU BETTER MANAGE YOUR MATERIAL HANDLER

BY ALLISON GRETTENBERG

Material handlers, along with other pieces of recycling equipment, spend their days lifting, carrying, and moving a variety of materials in waste and scrap handling applications. They work long hours and spend most of their life on the same site.

To help keep machines functioning at their best, recycling operations can use technological advancements such as telematics machine monitoring services. Telematics goes beyond basic fleet location tracking and delivers a stream of real-time data to a computer or smartphone to help you make smarter equipment decisions. Telematics services can enhance safety and help your material-handling business run more efficiently.

Stojan Arezina, telematics manager at DEVELON, explains how telematics works and how it can help you better manage your material handler.

UNDERSTANDING HOW TELEMATICS WORK

Many of today’s material handlers come standard with telematics to collect data. The system can help you understand how, when, and where recycling equipment is working. The location is provided in longitude and latitude, and the mapping software automatically changes to the closest address.

“Many fleet tracking technologies use a terminal that is installed on equipment to gather and communicate data wirelessly via cellular or satellite service,” says Arezina. “The data is sent to a website where the machine’s performance, operating hours, fuel usage, engine idle time, and work time can be monitored. Engine and hydraulic oil temperature and fault and warning codes can be viewed via a computer or cellular device.”

TELEMATICS REMOTE FLEET MANAGEMENT CENTRES

Some companies offer remote machine monitoring services for their material handlers. It’s usually an optional feature and may require a subscription fee. Smart X-Care, an enhanced telematics offering from DEVELON, provides access to vital equipment data that helps you maintain your equipment, reduce the risk of equipment theft, and identify ways to work more efficiently at recycling centres.

Many of today’s material handlers come standard with telematics to collect data.

agers, and customers like Asylum Scrap Services, to give them the telematics data they need to run their operations efficiently.

“At the control centre, I’m logged in as an admin, so I can see all of the machines at once,” says Long. “If a customer has an issue, I can already see what the customer is seeing and can reach out to the service manager. It’s a big benefit to the customer because we know exactly what parts they need in real time.”

Another benefit is the data produced by the telematics system: specifically the fault codes, service monitoring and warnings, fuel usage, and daily reports.

“Each of our customers’ machines needs to keep moving,” says Long. “That’s why telematics data – especially fault codes, warnings, service reminders, and daily reports – is so import-

ness in multiple ways. Here are a few important ones to note.

Improve operator behaviour A scrapyard is a congested place, so it’s critical to follow proper operating practices to ensure job site safety.

“Using data collected through telematics systems, you can improve operator performance,” says Arezina. “It can help reduce improper use of equipment on the job site like hard braking, accelerating, and speeding. Telematics can also help reduce prolonged idle time. By monitoring this data, you can correct these issues to promote a more productive and safer job site.”

You can also identify ways of reducing operating costs to extend component life cycles. This can help decrease the frequency of unplanned maintenance.

Save on downtime Your dealership may be able to diagnose a problem without physically being in the same location

as the machine, speeding up response time.

“This will help save unnecessary machine downtime and re duce travel time for your dealership’s service department,” says Long. “When a technician does need to visit your job site, they will be better prepared to fix your issue because of telematics data shared with the dealership.”

Improve fuel efficiency Telematics data can help you improve material handler fuel usage and efficiency.

“A lot of our customers are dialed into their fuel usage and uptime,” says Long. “That’s the great thing about telematics. It’s here to make things more efficient and be a partner on the job to support them with whatever they need.”

The system monitors equipment idle time, helping you identify machines that are working under or over capacity. Reducing idle times can extend engine life and reduce repair and maintenance costs. And you can monitor power mode operation and adjust the power mode to do the same work while using less fuel.

Help prevent unauthorized operation Keep a close eye on your machine and see where it has been operated. A geofence or an invisible/virtual boundary can be created through the machine’s GPS system. It will send a notification and can alert the authorities about possible equipment theft if your machine leaves the virtual fence. A time fence or curfew

on each machine can also be created.

“If the machine is operated outside of working hours, an email or SMS text notification can be sent to you,” says Arezina. “This helps prevent unauthorized operation and potential vandalism to the machine and job site.”

Taylor Long Telematics Coordinator, Swiderski Equipment

ALLISON GRETTENBERG is a strategic communications specialist at Two Rivers Marketing.

Smart X-Care from DEVELON provides access to vital equipment data and reduces the risk of equipment theft.

Data produced by telematics systems include fault codes, service monitoring and warnings, fuel usage, and daily reports.

A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO FIRE PREVENTION

HOW TO PROTECT RECYCLING AND WASTE MANAGEMENT PROCESSES

Waste facility fires are not a new phenomenon. In the U.K., the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) reported 4,321 waste fires between 2001 and 2013. Over 76 percent of the fires occurred in regulated sites, meaning an average of 254 fires per year happened in sites where permitting regimes were in place specific to waste operations. Unfortunately, the numbers have not improved as NFCC reported 670 fires between 2019 and 2020.

The problem is similar in North America. In May 2021, Fire Rover reported that 45 waste and recycling facility fires were recorded across the U.S. and Canada during April 2021, making it the worst month ever recorded.

The proliferation of incorrectly disposed of lithium-ion batteries has exacerbated an already challenging issue. Of the fires reported by Environmental Services Association members in the U.K. between 2019 and 2020, 38 percent were reported as being caused by lithium-ion batteries. In November 2021, a fire in Wiltshire, U.K., was suspected to have been caused by lithium-ion batteries and saw 200 to 300 tonnes of residual waste burn for several days. In 2019, the German steel recyclers confederation BDSV said they were confronted by at least one fire each week, with 80 to 90 percent caused by batteries.

A PERFECT STORM

Lee Dumford, managing director of Securus Risk Advisors,

which provides specialist risk management to the global insurance market, has referred to the threat of lithium-ion battery fires as one of the inherent risks to the industry.

“The recycling insurance sector is continuing to contract in its offerings and has done so globally for many years. This is mainly due to the inherent risk of fire that the sector poses, and the poor loss histories of insurers who do not truly understand the risk management required to mitigate this. Not only is the number of fires high, but the size of the fires is more concerning. All too often, we see total building losses littering media outlets.”

However, lithium-ion batteries are not the only source of these inherent risks. While strategies can be applied to risk management and the development of fire prevention plans, risk can not be eliminated entirely.

WASTE PROCESSING FIRES

The risk of fire is present at many points throughout a waste and recycling facility. This starts in the area where waste is received when hot or hazardous materials, such as ashes, gas canisters, and aerosols, are improperly disposed of.

Fires can also result from the self-heating of material in storage areas, both pre- and post-processing. Strategies to help mitigate this risk – including separating areas with firewalls and limiting the size of storage piles – are being

widely considered in the industry. However, the processing of waste is undoubtedly one of the biggest sources of risk in any recycling facility.

Central to this risk is the use of shredders, bag-openers, bale-breakers, and other similar equipment. These pose a risk through friction, sparks from metal-on-metal contact, blunt blades, and similar causes. This is in addition to the presence

of hazardous materials such as gas canisters, aerosols, and lithium-ion batteries which can rupture in a shredder and cause a fire.

A 2020 study in Austria published by MDPI titled Lithium-Ion Batteries as Ignition Sources in Waste Treatment Processes – A Semi-Quantitate Risk Analysis and Assessment of Battery-Caused Waste Fires also identified shredding as the highest risk area or process within a waste facility.

There are, of course, other notable areas of risk within the process, although some of them serve only to heighten a risk created upstream. For example, trommels, air separators, and screens can pose a risk via the introduction of high levels of oxygen to waste that may already be smoldering, allowing it to fully ignite.

The heat and pressure used in dryers and pellet presses, as well as mechanical conveying systems, can create a risk of ignition if not well maintained, but also can spread the fire around a plant both via the transport of burning material and the ignition of the belt itself. Direct heat from bearings and motors can also ignite waste. Dust extraction systems present a risk of dust explosion and fire in a filter system if they draw off sparks or embers from the process which they are de-dusting.

Determining which of these risks are highest will vary from plant to plant, and each plant may have its own unique risks.

Fires within the sector will always be present. It is how you proactively plan to mitigate the fire occurring and how you deal with an incident post-occurrence that is key.

Lee Dumford

Managing Director, Securus Risk Advisors

NFCC reported 670 fires between 2019 and 2020.

In April 2021, 45 waste and recycling facility fires were recorded across the U.S. and Canada making it the worst month to date.

The improper disposal of lithiumion batteries has exacerbated an already challenging issue.

SPARK AND EMBER DETECTION

Fire prevention systems are field-proven in harsh, hazardous environments and are increasingly being used in the waste and recycling sector. The crucial difference between these systems and sprinkler systems is that a fire prevention system does not wait until a fire has started before it acts.

Using infrared sensors to detect the kinetic energy irradiated from sparks, embers, and hot particles, the presence of ignition sources can be detected within the recycling process. Typical locations include the outfeed from conveyors, trommels, and dryers; transfer points between mechanical conveyors; and ducting in dust extraction systems.

If used correctly, these detectors can identify a single spark or ember, allowing for mitigating action to be initiated before a fire can take hold. The right technology partner and solution provider can ensure an appropriate system will be effective in a waste processing plant.

It is possible to deal with the detected sparks, embers, or hot particles with speed. Located appropriately downstream of detection devices, extinguishers can react in under 0.2 seconds to use spray or mist to mitigate against the risk posed by an ignition source. Where appropriate, extinguishers located upstream or in other areas can be triggered based on multiple thresholds programmed into the logic of the control system.

MINIMIZE RISK THROUGH DESIGN

A proper process of risk assessment throughout the design process and the operation of a waste and recycling facility is an essential part of maintaining a safe working environment and protecting the operational interests of the business.

The prevention of fire in waste and recycling plants begins with system design and continues with maintenance. As part of developing sorting and storage processes that minimize risk, it’s important to use anti-slip conveyors, monitor mechanical wear on bearings, motors, and drives, and design out metal-on-metal contact wherever possible. The maintenance of electrical equipment to reduce faults causing sparks and heat is also important.

While all of these factors can reduce the risk of fire, none of them remove the risk entirely. Fires will always be present, but technology can help to mitigate the effects and deal with them quickly.

The waste and recycling sector has an ongoing global challenge to deal with the risk of fire. This is not a challenge that will go away.

“Fires within the sector will always be present,” says Dumford. “It is how you proactively plan to mitigate the fire occurring and how you deal with an incident post-occurrence that is key.”

FAGUS GRECON develops and manufactures fire prevention solutions and measuring systems for industrial production machines to eliminate ignition sources before fires occur.

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DIGITAL SOLUTIONS DRIVE RECYCLING TRANSFORMATION IN ABBOTSFORD, B.C.

AUDIT TOOL PROVIDES TARGETED EDUCATION FOR CONTAMINATION HOT SPOTS

BY TIM ADKINS

The City of Abbotsford, British Columbia, recently underwent a significant transformation when city officials prepared for a move to single-stream recycling and automated collections driven by a commitment to sustainable waste management practices.

To ensure a successful transition to optimally designed services, they needed to gather accurate measurements of the materials discarded by residents. The usual method, though, was cumbersome and time-consuming. Digital tools provided a better way.

BETTER DATA FOR BETTER PROGRAM DESIGN

In the past, Abbotsford had relied on periodic random truckload audits to assess waste composition. However, while these audits provided some useful information, they fell short of providing household-level insights.

The City knew it needed precise data to correctly determine appropriate cart sizes for the upcoming single-stream recycling system, so it turned to a digital solution known as the Curbside Audit Tool from Routeware.

The tool empowered summertime staff members to peak into the curbside waste disposal habits of residents, gathering data with ease via apps in the field connected directly to the back office.

With a greater breadth and depth of data available, the City could evaluate different scenarios with greater confidence in the predicted outcomes – leading to better decision making.

“We were primarily trying to figure out how much of each material people were putting out at the curb so we could choose the appropriate cart sizes,” says Julie Kanya, solid waste and environmental coordinator for the City of Abbotsford.

The City was also able to proactively identify existing contamination hot spots by analyzing data from specific households rather than entire routes. They then planned to direct educational efforts to areas with higher contamination rates

first, ensuring they equipped program participants in historically underperforming areas with ample education.

“We really like the curbside tool because it gives us information about specific households rather than a giant zone,” Kanya says. “We can really identify hot spots and direct our educational efforts there.”

With this targeted approach, Abbotsford planned to effectively address the contamination challenges associated with single-stream recycling and automated collection.

With a change to automated collection, the potential for contamination may increase because people are no longer directly handling and looking at the contents of carts before emptying them into the collection vehicle.

“Programs can start to see more contamination after changes like this – especially in recycling and organics carts,” Kanya says. Abbotsford used data collected before the rollout of its new program to figure out which areas were likely to make the most mistakes so they could proactively address the risk.

ROBUST DATA FEEDS CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

While rolling out a new program is a feat of planning, orchestration, and execution unto itself, the follow up is just as important as the preliminary work. Data remains critical for identifying opportunities for participation and improvement.

As Abbotsford made the transition to single-stream automated collections, the need for ongoing vigilance against contamination became even more critical.

Using the Curbside Audit Tool, the City sent staff to survey a selection of carts on collection mornings. They used the app to record whether carts were out, documented their contents, and took note of any contamination observed along the way. This valuable information formed the foundation for decision-making regarding outreach initiatives aimed at promoting proper waste disposal practices moving forward.

In this way and others, simplified digital data collection and

analysis proved invaluable. Not only was it easier to actually collect the data, but the City could easily access it and analyze it through the software. In turn, this enabled the City to assess the effectiveness of its education campaigns.

Following the launch, the City continued monitoring, using numbers and insights gathered from the tool to iterate its edu cation strategy to keep on reaching households that need more support and guidance.

The results of these efforts have been encouraging. Con tamination rates remained relatively consistent even after the switch to single-stream recycling – an achievement that testifies to the effectiveness of the City’s efforts.

“We found the tool to be really useful for collecting those numbers and then being able to deliver direct education to those households after the fact,” Kanya says. “What we’ve seen is that the contamination rates have remained relatively consis tent after the changeover, which is pretty good news.”

DIGITAL TOOLS AND THE FUTURE

Looking ahead, Abbotsford remains steadfast in its commit ment to combating contamination and preserving the integrity of compost and recycling streams.

Digital tools for data collection are an important part of this strategy, as are the complementary technologies the City uses to deliver education to citizens. All of these tools are powered by ReCollect, a Routeware company.

Abbotsford’s dedication to waste management and environ mental stewardship is a testament to the City’s commitment to creating a cleaner, greener future. By harnessing the power of advanced digital tools, the City stands at the forefront of sus tainable practices, empowering citizens to participate actively in building a thriving, environmentally conscious community.

TIM ADKINS leads product marketing at Routeware and has worked in environmental services for more than 15 years.

Workers used the app to record whether carts were out, documented their contents, and took note of any contamination.

A LONG WAY TOGETHER

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HOW THE RECYCLING INDUSTRY CAN BENEFIT FROM INCOMING SEC RULES

BY ERIN ANDREWS

Back in April at ISRI’s Annual Convention in Nashville, the Carbonhound team interviewed attendees, exhibitors, and anyone else who would give us their time about how much they knew about the climate impacts of the recycling industry.

Out of the more than 50 people we spoke with, only seven people could tell us about their company’s carbon emissions, which wasn’t surprising.

However, when asked if they were familiar with incoming SEC rules requiring all publicly listed companies (and their supply chains) to disclose their carbon emissions along with their 10-K forms starting in 2024, the interest level shifted.

In an industry driven by mandates, this reporting will quickly become required. The best part of this is that recyclers now have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be financially rewarded for the critical work that they do when it comes to responsibly managing our waste. That’s why we’ve put together a guide about the incoming SEC requirements – specifically for recyclers.

WHAT ARE THE SEC CLIMATE REPORTING RULES?

Publicly listed companies operating in the U.S. under the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will be required to include climate-related information about their business and supply chain operations, starting as early as 2024. This reporting requirement applies to all SEC registrants, including foreign companies, who submit annual and periodic reporting such as Form 10-K.

Climate-related information includes corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from their direct operations, but more importantly, companies will also be required to disclose ISO 14064-aligned supply chain information starting in 2024.

In most industries, the majority of carbon emissions are hidden upstream in corporate supply chains. From resource extraction to processing, and manufacturing to distribution, the SEC rules are proposed in a way that would require businesses to present a complete view of their climate impact.

PUBLICLY LISTED COMPANIES WILL BE REQUIRED TO INCLUDE CLIMATE-RELATED INFORMATION ABOUT THEIR OPERATIONS AS EARLY AS 2024

Companies will be required to disclose supply chain information starting in 2024.

HOW DO THESE RULES IMPACT RECYCLING?

If your processed materials end up in the products or processes of public companies, you will be asked to report your carbon emissions associated with materials that go to these customers by 2024 under these proposed rules.

In the context of OEMs and manufacturing more broadly, feedstock is a significant portion of any company’s upstream carbon emissions – meaning there will likely be a high level of scrutiny put on your reporting.

Luckily for the industry, recycled feedstock has a smaller carbon footprint than virgin feedstock.

For those selling directly or indirectly to public companies, this reporting will require some mandatory work. If it’s done properly, it presents a rare opportunity to reposition the indus-

try as the climate leader it is through reliable carbon emissions reporting.

Apart from the mandatory use of this data, there are major benefits to recyclers who choose to use this information for a broader use.

HOW CAN RECYCLERS MAKE THE MOST OF THESE INCOMING RULES?

Increase market share

Roughly 90 percent of global GDP is publicly committed to net-zero targets by 2050, and it’s a long-term growing market. These targets have been set knowing that companies will need to engage supply chains as a carbon reduction lever.

Most recycled content has a lower carbon footprint than virgin feedstock. The energy savings alone are significant across materials:

• Recycled aluminum uses 95 percent less energy to produce than virgin aluminum.

• Recycled copper uses 75 percent less energy to produce than virgin copper.

• Recycled plastic uses 88 percent less energy to produce than virgin plastic.

• Recycled glass uses 34 percent less energy to produce than virgin glass.

For companies looking to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to net zero, the largest carbon contributors will be tackled first – in terms of manufacturers’ upstream emissions, the largest carbon contributor is feedstock.

For decades, the recycling industry has faced a negative reputation despite the overall positive climate impact of the industry as a whole. Now with the renewed focus on climate transparency, this is a growth opportunity.

On the consumer side, 30 percent of CPG market growth was driven by sustainably marketed products and services recycled

In most industries, the majority of carbon emissions are hidden upstream in corporate supply chains. From resource extraction to processing, and manufacturing to distribution, the SEC rules are proposed in a way that would require businesses to present a complete view of their climate impact.

content labels are part of sustainable marketing. As this trend continues, more manufacturers will look to their suppliers for those climate credentials.

If companies don’t jump on the climate bandwagon, they will be operating in a shrinking market.

Reduce employment costs Across industries, labour shortages have presented operational challenges to keep productivity up while maintaining safety and quality standards.

While quantifying your carbon emissions won’t reduce the costs of labour or attract new talent, what you do with that data will. A recent survey by IBM found that 71 percent of employees and employment seekers say that environmentally sustainable companies are more attractive employers.

By using this carbon emission data to form a new brand story around sustainability, you won’t just retain existing and attract new customers – you will also retain existing and attract new employees.

People want to work with companies that share core values with them. By showing that you understand and value the good work your teams do for the planet, you can revamp employee recruitment and engagement strategies to be more compelling.

Maintain and attract customers If you haven’t already received carbon emissions requests from customers, you will within the next 6 to 12 months. This could even become a non-negotiable clause on contract renewals before your existing customers will renew for the next term.

As more regulations come online like the SEC rule and the

B-15 guidance from the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) in Canada stating that financial institutions such as banks, insurance companies, and other lenders will be required to report similar data, it’s only a matter of months before this type of climate reporting becomes status quo.

Given these market signals, large and leading companies are already preparing their carbon emissions reporting and public disclosure documents. Companies that take early action will also quickly transition their virgin feedstock to recycled feedstock in anticipation of these disclosures.

By having your reporting ready ahead of these questions, you will be in a better position to not just maintain existing contracts, but also promptly compete for new contracts.

HOW CAN RECYCLERS PREPARE FOR THESE QUESTIONS?

If it’s done manually, the process to prepare for these disclosures will be time-consuming.

The first step is to understand all of your possible emission sources based on your unique operations. These sources typically include electricity, building heating, and vehicle combustion to start.

Next, there are up to 15 additional carbon emission categories you’ll need to mark as relevant or not relevant based on your specific operations, as outlined in the Greenhouse Gas Protocol guidance and ISO 14064 standards.

Once you have a full view of the emission sources that complete your upstream and direct emissions you will need to gather the relevant data and translate that data into carbon emissions.

Only then will you be able to generate reports aligned with Greenhouse Gas Protocol guidance and ISO 14064.

Luckily, there are both free and paid tools available to streamline this process. Free excel templates are a good start, but they don’t provide verification-ready reporting.

Reporting tools like Carbonhound are configured specifically for the recycling industry by including expert support, automating data entry for verification, and providing custom reporting to save time and effort every time you need to respond to a customer request. Protect your contracts, tap into a growing market that you belong in, and reduce your cost of labour, all while meeting the requirements of the SEC.

ERIN ANDREWS is the Climate Lead at Carbonhound, a carbon management software platform that measures, reduces, verifies, and markets carbon emissions.

In the context of OEMs and manufacturing more broadly, feedstock is a significant portion of any company’s upstream carbon emissions – meaning there will likely be a high level of scrutiny put on your reporting.

TURKEY’S STEEL AND FERROUS SCRAP MARKET YET TO RECOVER POSTEARTHQUAKE

THE

SUBSTANTIAL DROP IN CRUDE STEEL OUTPUT CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO FEBRUARY’S DISASTER

BY OLGA YAKYMCHUK

The Turkish market began 2023 with a bullish outlook: Steel production was expected to reach 40 million mt and consumption to exceed 34 million mt. However, the current production dynamics are far from these optimistic numbers and are resulting in lower scrap imports.

Crude steel output in Turkey (Turkiye) fell by 19 percent to 13 million mt between January and May 2023 compared to the same period of 2022. The drop is being attributed to the severe earthquake on February 6 of this year that affected a large part of Southern Turkey, especially the Pazarcik district of the southern province Kahramanmaras, the epicentre.

The natural calamity impacted 11 cities and all steelmaking facilities in Iskenderun, where mills suspended operations due to disruptions of natural gas and electricity supplies, damaged logistics, and damaged infrastructure. In fact, steel production in the region fell by 76 percent in February.

Iskenderun is one of the biggest regions for steel trade in

Turkey with large mills such as Isdemir, Tosyali Holding, Ekinciler Holding, Yazici Demir Celik, Koc Metalurji, and Bastug Metalurji located here.

Around 105,794 buildings were destroyed or damaged enough to require demolition, according to the Turkish Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change Ministry, which also noted that reconstruction of these earthquake-hit areas would require 4 million mt of rebar.

The domestic steel sector was expected to fully satisfy this demand as the country was the world’s eighth largest steelmaker in 2022 with an annual capacity of around 55 million mt, including around 24 million mt of rebar.

SCRAP CONSUMPTION DECREASES

All mills in the Iskenderun region resumed operations by April and production was anticipated to recover by May. However, it remains lower than the previous year due to uncertain economic conditions in the country. Thus, crude steel output decreased by 10 percent to 2.9 million mt in May when compared annually.

This drop in steel production has also affected Turkish ferrous scrap consumption, which fell by 21 percent to 8.58 million mt between January and April from 10.82 million in the first four months of 2022, according to statistical source SteelData. This included 6.66 million mt and 1.92 million mt of imported and domestic material, respectively.

Ferrous scrap imports to Turkey dropped by 23 percent to 6.66 million mt in the first four months compared to 8.66 million mt in the same timeframe of 2022. The U.S. – one of Turkey’s largest scrap suppliers – reduced shipments of the material by 9 percent to 1.3 million mt, while the Netherlands and Belgium increased them by 5 percent and 3 percent to 859,000 mt and 701,000 mt, respectively, in this timeframe. The U.K. supplied 626,000 mt of scrap to Turkey, Romania exported 366,000 mt, Denmark 362,000 mt, and Lithuania 279,000 mt between January and April.

In February, ferrous scrap imports by Turkey dropped by

The Turkish steel industry is expected to recover in the second half of 2023.

36 percent to 1.2 million mt from 1.9 million mt in the same month of 2022. The key suppliers at that time were the U.S. (280,000 mt), the Netherlands (193,000 mt), and Romania (104,000 mt).

Turkish rebar prices were at $705/mt ex-works, excluding 18 percent VAT, on January 3, according to Davis Index. They jumped to $773/mt ex-works, excluding 18 percent VAT, after the earthquake as the supply from the Iskenderun region was significantly reduced.

This put pressure on local end users, prompting the Turkish government to ask the Turkish Steel Producers Association (TCUD) to stabilize rebar prices during the next three to four months, considering the increased domestic requirements. It has been almost five months, yet this issue remains unresolved despite several discussions.

Nevertheless, rebar prices in Turkey decreased to $636/mt exworks, excluding 18 percent VAT, by June 20 amid challenging market conditions. Trading has also remained muted following the significant devaluation of the Turkish lira against the U.S. dollar. Besides, rebar exports are weak.

The Davis Index for Turkish export rebar stood at $695/mt fob actual weight on January 5 before rising to $750/mt fob actual weight after the earthquake and subsequently softening to $620/mt fob actual weight on June 20 on limited demand.

Turkey exported 898,000 mt of rebar in the first four months of 2023, down 60 percent compared with 2.23 million mt in the prior-year timeframe, according to SteelData. Long product shipments from Turkey to Israel and Yemen, the country’s main outlets for rebar, dropped by 55 percent and 44 percent to 210,000 mt and 183,000 mt, respectively, during this period.

From January to April, rebar exports from Turkey to Ethiopia increased by 53 percent to 61,000 mt from 40,000 mt and decreased to the U.S. by 65 percent to 50,000 mt from 143,000 mt. Long product shipment to Panama increased by 70 percent to 48,000 mt from 28,000 mt.

The Turkish steel industry is expected to recover in the second half of the year and production loss caused by the severe earthquake is anticipated to be fully offset. Reconstruction of earthquake-hit areas is still awaited, which should spur domestic rebar demand.

OLGA YAKYMCHUK is a senior ferrous market analyst at Davis Index and specializes in the Turkish and CIS regions for this segment. She can be reached at olga. yakymchuk@davisindex.com.

The Turkish steel industry is expected to recover in the second half of the year and production loss caused by the severe earthquake is anticipated to be fully offset. Reconstruction of earthquake-hit areas is still awaited, which should spur domestic rebar demand.

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