Environmental Comparison of Different Mechanical–Biological Treatment Plants by Combining Life Cycle Assessment and Material Flow Analysis

The role of Mechanical–Biological Treatment (MBT) is still the utmost importance in management residual Municipal Solid Waste (MSW). These plants can cover a wide range objectives, combining several types processes and elements. aim this work to assess compare, from an environmental point view, performance seven selected MBT currently operating different countries, which represent main layout processes. For scope, combined Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Material Flow Analysis (MFA) approach has been adopted plant-specific efficiencies materials energy recovery. Metals recovery was common high-efficiency practice MBT; further other waste often performed. Each assessed plant achieved benefits: among them, highest benefit when amount recovered (not only with material recycling). Environmental results were strongly affected by recycling production, little contribution requirement. impacts process were, on average, 14% total one. condition for suitable combination production new raw materials, avoiding disposal landfill, refuse-derived fuel This be help operators planners they are asked define schemes.