Effect of Paper vs. Bioplastic Bags on Food Waste Collection and Processing

Abstract Purpose The most abundant among the separately collected waste materials in Italy is food waste. This research aims to evaluate influence of type collection bag on management chain. In Italy, mainly based bioplastic bags. As an alternative, a new recycled paper shows potential advantages. Methods two types were compared evaluating weight loss during household storage, by means experimental assessment simulating domestic dynamic filling. Moreover, biomethane production bags under anaerobic conditions was measured at lab-scale level with Biochemical Methane Potential (BMP) tests. Results During breathable fabric allows for higher losses, ranging average between + 29 and 44% bioplastic. BMP tests, carried out different (temperature, inoculum), showed 2–14 times generation methane bags, when referred 1 kg inserted Conclusions Collecting inside advantages use First, benefitted thanks lower material be transported treatment plants, leading also possibility decreasing frequency. resulted more compatible than digestion treatment, which currently rapidly increasing as option. Graphic