Benchmarking – Austrian Waste Management: Are the objectives of waste management achieved?

摘要: In Austria, federal waste management goals aim at (i) protection of humans, animals and plants, (ii) reduction greenhouse gases air pollution, (iii) conservation resources, (iv) production recycled materials that do not present a greater risk than comparable primary materials, (v) remaining can be stored without jeopardizing future generations. To develop further, the responsible Austrian Ministry commissioned consortium four universities to assess current system, evaluate if given are reached effectively, suggest possible improvements towards goals. During subsequent evaluation step, main categorized subdivided in sub goals, indicators criteria (benchmarks). The benchmarks serve as pivot – or missed. Based on material flow analysis, is systematically described with regards relevant flows processes. Both, goods selected valuable hazardous substances (e.g. metals, carbon) considered including data uncertainty. Selected environmental impacts were calculated using method life cycle assessment cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) has been applied economic efficiency. CEA compares associated costs level target achievement. combination macroeconomic allows complete characterisation system. results underline high management, but also show some areas opportunities for optimization: Collection recycling quotas recyclable wood plastics) shall increased, question how discharge pollutants needs solved. order reduce long-term emissions, regulations landfill aftercare necessary. areas, encountered lack available methods limits. Particularly, issues ”protecting human health“, ”clean cycles“ ”safe final sinks“ further investigations. shows five individually consistent, there competition dependence between them. It improve all targets single action. An optimized way necessary find best interactions several measures ensure effective economical management.