In a groundbreaking study published in the ‘International Journal of Sustainable Engineering’, researchers from the Institute of Engineering (IOE) in Lalitpur, Nepal, have unveiled critical insights into solid waste management, particularly focusing on the pyrolysis of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastics. The research, led by Bishwash Paneru from the Department of Applied Sciences and Chemical Engineering, highlights the pressing issues of waste mismanagement on the IOE campus and proposes a sustainable solution that could have far-reaching implications for the construction sector and beyond.
During a week-long investigation in June 2022, students meticulously sorted through waste collected from 58 locations on campus, uncovering an average of 5.84 kg of plastic, 8.85 kg of paper, and 3.76 kg of organic waste daily. This data not only underscores the volume of waste generated but also the urgent need for effective management strategies. “Our findings emphasize the importance of the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—as essential practices for both the institution and the broader community,” said Paneru.
One of the most significant outcomes of the research is the techno-economic analysis of a proposed pyrolysis plant designed to convert segregated HDPE waste into liquid fuel. The simulation results indicated that processing just 0.72 kg of HDPE waste could yield approximately 0.65 kg of liquid fuel daily. The estimated cost of constructing the pyrolysis facility stands at NPR 27,11,528.794, with an annual operational expense of NPR 1,39,510. This presents a viable business model that not only addresses waste management but also creates an alternative energy source.
The implications for the construction sector are particularly noteworthy. As the industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, the integration of waste-to-energy technologies can significantly reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels. By converting waste into usable energy, construction companies can lower their carbon footprint and operating costs, potentially transforming how projects are financed and executed.
Paneru’s research is a clarion call for proactive environmental management in urban settings, especially in educational institutions that can serve as models for sustainability. “We believe that implementing these strategies can inspire similar initiatives across Nepal and beyond,” he stated, highlighting the potential for broader impact.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, studies like this pave the way for innovative solutions that align with global sustainability goals. The findings not only advocate for improved waste management practices but also illustrate a path toward a circular economy where waste is viewed as a resource rather than a burden.
For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the Department of Applied Sciences and Chemical Engineering at IOE.
