Jarnae Leslie , Paul James Brown , Susanne Pratt , Melissa Edwards
{"title":"Design principles for city waste reduction: Addressing gaps in public reporting for zero waste","authors":"Jarnae Leslie , Paul James Brown , Susanne Pratt , Melissa Edwards","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100326","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100326","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>As cities respond to growing demands of waste management, what and how information is publicly reported is becoming more important. Despite the evolution of sophisticated reporting systems, inconsistent, incomplete, and misunderstood waste management data create gaps in public reporting and accountability. The objective of this research is to explore gaps in public disclosures of information about an active city waste management system to identify and understand barriers towards a waste reduction target. This paper presents a case study through desktop analysis of waste management reporting within a local government area in Sydney, Australia, where waste is managed between the local government (the City of Sydney) and industry stakeholders. Three key barriers to transparent, inclusive, and auditable public reporting were identified as impacting the city waste reduction target: (i) an ambiguous target, (ii) conflicting and inconsistent waste data, and (iii) incomplete disclosures. Seven design principles are derived to support the myriad of stakeholders required to achieve more impactful city waste reduction targets and contribute to the limited empirical studies of zero waste implementation. Namely, (i) Transparency in Existing Sustainability Commitments, (ii) Disclosure of Material Flows, (iii) Inclusion of Stakeholder Relationships, (iv) Identification and Disclosure of Gaps in Public Reporting, (v) Development of Detailed Target Definition and Action Plan, (vi) Development of Baseline Waste Data and Progress Reporting Timeline, and (vii) Development of Detailed Budget to Achieve Targets.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100326"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144330744","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Shilpy Rani Basak, Ahmad Hasan Nury, Srijon Das Swarup, Md. Jahir Bin Alam, Md. Imran Kabir
{"title":"Optimizing biogas production through the co-digestion of tannery fleshing, cowdung, and sewage water using response surface methodology","authors":"Shilpy Rani Basak, Ahmad Hasan Nury, Srijon Das Swarup, Md. Jahir Bin Alam, Md. Imran Kabir","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100332","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100332","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Tannery waste management presents a significant environmental challenge, as improper disposal practices lead to the contamination of land and water bodies. Anaerobic co-digestion has the potential to convert protein-rich tannery fleshing into renewable energy. However, the selection of substrates and its dosing as well as physicochemical properties remain the prime factors for energy production and optimization. Therefore, this study aims to optimize biogas production through the anaerobic co-digestion of tannery fleshing, cowdung, and sewage water using Central Composite Design, inclusive Response Surface Methodology. The impact of temperature (35–45°C), volatile solid (VS) concentration (3500–7000 mg/L), and substrate-to-inoculum ratio (S/I; 1–1.5) in biogas production have been investigated and analyzed using 19 batch experiments. The optimal temperature of 45°C, VS of 6800 mg/L, and S/I of 1.33 have been evaluated producing nearly 6700 mL of biogas (71 % of CH<sub>4</sub>) after 35 days. The response surface model shows R<sup>2</sup> > 99 % with no significant lack-of-fit in predicting the biogas production. These findings may lead to implementing circular bio-economy practices, promoting environmental sustainability, and producing efficient energy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100332"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144296804","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
GM Nazmul Islam , Dave Kasper , Ted Parker , Patricia I. Dolez
{"title":"Recycling of inherently flame-resistant fabrics for protective clothing: A comprehensive review","authors":"GM Nazmul Islam , Dave Kasper , Ted Parker , Patricia I. Dolez","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100331","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100331","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The accelerated consumption of flame-resistant (FR) fabrics increases the amount of textile waste. Moreover, aramids take a very long time to degrade in landfills and should not be incinerated. Mechanical recycling offers opportunities to tackle this challenge. Yet, limited information is available on this topic. The mechanical recycling process comprises collection of cleaned used FR garments, sorting of fabrics based on fibre content and color, removal of accessories, shredding, blending with virgin fibres, spinning into yarns, knitting/weaving, dyeing, and production of new FR garments. Remaining challenges include the presence of residual contaminants from prior fire exposure; reduction in fibre length after shredding; difficult balance between performance and cost; and dyeing conditions to accommodate the different fibres and residual color on the recycled fibres. Moving forward, researchers should optimize the processes from used garment collection to new FR garment production as well as develop solutions to remove the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) liquid-repellent finishes from the fabrics prior to recycling. It will also be important to assess the long-term performance of fabrics made with recycled fibres. Combining the different expertise required to tackle these challenges will be key for mechanical recycling to improve the sustainability of FR protective clothing.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100331"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144291055","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Brayan Alexis Parra-Orobio , Yolanda Rico-Lizcano , Jonathan Soto-Paz , Luis Alfonso Guerra-Hernández , Pablo César Manyoma-Velásquez , Yorgi San Juan-Garisado , Jesús David Álvarez-Trujillo , Miguel Casallas Ojeda
{"title":"Optimization of electro-fenton parameters for phenol degradation in portable toilet wastewater: Advancing towards sustainability","authors":"Brayan Alexis Parra-Orobio , Yolanda Rico-Lizcano , Jonathan Soto-Paz , Luis Alfonso Guerra-Hernández , Pablo César Manyoma-Velásquez , Yorgi San Juan-Garisado , Jesús David Álvarez-Trujillo , Miguel Casallas Ojeda","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100328","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100328","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Wastewater from portable toilets (WWPT) is characterized by a variety of recalcitrant chemical compounds such as phenols and organics that are difficult to treat by conventional methods. However, WWPT treatment is scarce in literature, especially with a focus on sustainability. In this study, the Electro-Fenton (EF) process was used to remove phenols and organics from WWPT and to analyze the toxicity of the effluent for water reuse purposes. The experimental design used response surface methodology to determine the occurrence of operating parameters such as hydrogen peroxide dose (100, 174, 200 g L<sup>−1</sup>) and current density (10, 50, 90 A m<sup>−2</sup>). The experiments were performed in a 3 L reactor in batch mode. It was found that the optimum operating conditions were 187 g L<sup>−1</sup> and 90 A m<sup>−2</sup>, which allowed obtaining an effluent pH of 7.4, TSS removal of 87.6 % (418 mg L<sup>−1</sup>), chemical oxygen demand of 96.4 % (191.5 mg L<sup>−1</sup>), biological oxygen demand of 98 % (87 mg L<sup>−1</sup>), phenols with 98 % (0.15 mg L<sup>−1</sup>) and germination index of 108.9 %. This showed that treated WWPT can be used for irrigation. In terms of cost, the treatment could be US$ 0.88 L<sup>−1</sup>. Overall, the EF process is presented as a suitable process to treat WWPT and reduce the pollution load on the environment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100328"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144271521","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Toward high-performance green building: Influence of geopolymer and straw fiber on mechanical and thermal performance","authors":"Mohamed Char, Amine Tilioua","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100327","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100327","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Raw earth bricks were stabilized with a kaolin-based geopolymer binder activated by an alkaline solution, then reinforced with straw fibers to improve their mechanical and thermal performance. Formulations were prepared with a geopolymer content ranging from 0 % to 6 % by weight. The optimum 6 % formulation was combined with straw fiber contents ranging from 0 % to 1.5 % by weight. Samples were characterized for density, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, mass heat capacity, volumetric heat capacity, thermal effusivity, compressive strength, and tensile strength. Incorporating the geopolymer significantly improved mechanical properties, with increased compressive strength from 0.892 MPa to 3.076 MPa and tensile strength from 0.114 MPa to 0.624 MPa. In parallel, a slight increase in thermal conductivity was observed, reaching 0.629 W/m.K for sample G6. Adding straw fibers to formulations containing 6 % geopolymer enabled a progressive reduction in thermal conductivity, reaching a minimum value of 0.316 W/m.K for 1.5 % fibers (G6F6). The volumetric heat capacity increased significantly to 3.0013 × 10⁶ J/m³ .K. At the same time, the thermal effusivity reached 973.12 W.s ¹ ᐟ²/m².K. Mechanically, tensile strength continued to grow with the addition of fiber, reaching 0.923 MPa. In contrast, compressive strength peaked at 5.217 MPa at 0.75 % fiber (G6F3) before decreasing at higher contents. These results show that an optimum compromise between thermal and mechanical performance is obtained for a straw fiber content of 0.75 % and 1 % by weight.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100327"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144254938","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mithushi Wickramasinghe, Bre-Anne Sainsbury, Susanga Costa
{"title":"Sustainable circular co-disposal of mining waste for cost efficiency","authors":"Mithushi Wickramasinghe, Bre-Anne Sainsbury, Susanga Costa","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100321","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100321","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The accumulation of waste tyres presents a significant environmental challenge, demanding innovative recycling solutions. Simultaneously, cemented rock fill (CRF) implemented in underground stoping mining methods presents tensile strength limitations, resulting in stability issues during horizontal (overhead) exposure. As such, there is benefit to reinforce CRF against tensile stresses. Given the vast volume of CRF used in mining operations, it is difficult to find a suitable reinforcing material that is also economical and sustainable. This study explores the incorporation of waste tyre rubber into CRF to develop tyre-enhanced cemented rock fill (TCRF), addressing both waste tyre recycling and CRF strength deficiencies. Large-scale experimental investigations, including compressive and tensile strength were conducted including waste tyre rubber from 5.5 % to 33 % of the cemented rock fill by volume. Results indicate that while the inclusion of waste tyre rubber reduces compressive strength and modulus, it significantly enhances tensile strength—a crucial parameter for backfill stability. A mix design of 3 % cement and 22 % waste tyre rubber achieved a tensile strength comparable to conventional CRF with 5 % cement, enabling potential cement savings of AU$ 8 per cubic meter of CRF through the removal of 2 % cement content for the same performance. Furthermore, the waste tyre rubber addition improved ductility and post-failure strength behaviour, further increasing the stability of backfilled exposures. As such, this research highlights TCRF as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for underground mining backfill, advancing waste tyre recycling and optimizing material cycles in mining operations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100321"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144190427","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Mechanical and durability analysis of geopolymer concrete made with recycled silicate activator for low carbon breakwaters","authors":"K.K.D.A. Wijesekara , Monower Sadique , Iacopo Carnacina , Alistair Fielding , Gabriela Chronowska Bojczuk","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100322","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100322","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigates the feasibility of using recycled sodium silicate (RSiA) extracted from waste glasses as an alternative to commercial sodium silicate (CSiA) in the production of alkali-activated geopolymer concrete for breakwater applications. The influence of RSiA on the chemical characteristics, mechanical performance, and environmental impact of geopolymer mortars and concrete was evaluated. Elemental composition and FTIR analyses were conducted to characterise the silicate activators, revealing comparable chemical profiles with a notable difference in the SiO₂/Na₂O molar ratio (Ms: CSiA = 2.81; RSiA = 1.53). Mortar mixes with varying fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) ratios (e.g., FA:GGBS = 40:60, 80:20) and different Na₂SiO₃:NaOH ratios (1:2, 1:1, and 2:1) were tested for compressive strength under various curing regimes, including air, water, and partial hot water curing. Microstructural analysis via SEM and XRD confirmed the formation of dense geopolymer gels and crystalline phases. CO₂ emissions and cost analysis indicated that a 2:1 Na₂SiO₃:NaOH ratio minimised both environmental and economic impact. The optimised mix (C40–2111) achieved a compressive strength of ∼47 MPa under partial hot water curing, ∼35 MPa under air curing and ∼33 MPa under water curing after 28 days. Compared to conventional concrete used in coastal defence structures, the RSiA-based geopolymer blocks met or exceeded performance standards in terms of compressive strength, suggesting their suitability as sustainable alternatives to traditional breakwater materials.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100322"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144221129","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A technical support model for the construction of zero-carbon buildings","authors":"Mazen M. Omer , Asrul Nasid Masrom , Tirivavi Moyo , Nadiyah Alhabib Adhbeea , Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100312","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100312","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study aims to develop a technical support model for the construction of zero-carbon buildings (ZCB). Accordingly, the study’s objectives are to identify the components of the technical support model, analyze the causal relationships among the model components, and explore the impact of these components on the construction of ZCBs. The study identified 17 technological barriers to constructing ZCBs based on previous research, which were then used to create an online survey for distribution to construction professionals. A total of 272 valid responses were collected using non-probability and snowball sampling techniques. The collected data was analyzed using exploratory factor analysis, partial least squares structural equation modeling, and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis. The exploratory factor analysis extracted 4 valid components: 1) inadequate technical support, 2) insufficient knowledge and infrastructure, 3) poor resources and immaturity, and 4) inadequate research and practical effort. After that, partial least squares structural equation modeling indicated that inadequate technical support has the strongest causal relationship compared to the other components. Meanwhile, the valid components revealed 4 configurations, offering a deeper understanding of the technical support model for ZCB construction. The present study provides a technical support model that can enhance understanding of the technological barriers to constructing ZCBs. This model allows practitioners to have a more comprehensive perspective, particularly to enable decision-makers to develop new strategies for future projects and offers academics a new resource to promote the construction of ZCBs worldwide.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100312"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144184490","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Technology adoption and diffusion in the plastics value chain: From users and recyclers to recyclate uptake","authors":"Kalim Shah, Idowu Kunlere","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100313","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100313","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Despite recent progress and growing investments in plastic recycling technologies, the market uptake of recycled PET products remains persistently low, exposing a critical disconnect between technological development and real-world adoption. While existing research emphasizes waste collection and technical bottlenecks, limited attention has been paid to how industrial recyclers and manufacturers navigate adoption decisions that ultimately shape the diffusion and integration of plastic recycling technologies across production systems. This study addresses that gap by applying a fuzzy Delphi TOPSIS method to evaluate six PET plastic recycling technologies and twenty-five criteria influencing adoption and uptake decisions. We identify efficiency, pricing structures, consumer willingness, incentives, energy consumption, and public awareness as some of the most influential factors. Mechanical recycling is the most preferred technology, balancing cost, compatibility, and environmental performance. These findings reveal how adoption is shaped by technical efficacy and perceptions of risk, cost, and alignment with market norms. The study offers a decision-driven lens for designing targeted policy interventions and scaling viable recycling solutions within circular economy frameworks, highlighting these dynamics.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100313"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144184489","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Chee Ban Cheah , Jia Jia Liew , Kevin Le Ping Khaw , Hazizan bin Md Akil , Ubagaram Johnson Alengaram
{"title":"Calcined clay as a low-carbon cementitious material: Comprehensive review of treatment method, properties, and performance in concrete","authors":"Chee Ban Cheah , Jia Jia Liew , Kevin Le Ping Khaw , Hazizan bin Md Akil , Ubagaram Johnson Alengaram","doi":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100323","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100323","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The growing demand for sustainable construction materials has driven interest in calcined clay (CC) as a viable alternative to conventional cement and traditional supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) like slag and fly ash. Calcination temperatures of 700–900℃ were commonly used to produce CC, with optimal performance observed at 800–850℃. The pozzolanic reaction of CC and its synergistic reactions with limestone form additional hydration products (calcium aluminosilicate hydrate (C-A-S-H) and carboaluminates phases) that enhance the mechanical and durability performance of concrete. Research indicated that utilization of CC can improve strength performance by 15–20 % compared to conventional concrete. However, the incorporation of more than 30 % CC in concrete may adversely affect the workability, strength, and durability performance. The use of clay with kaolinite content of 40–70 % is recommended for optimal resistance to chemical attack such as chloride penetration and carbonation. Workability reduction was observed due to high specific surface area and plate-like particle morphology of CC, causing increased water or superplasticizer demand at higher replacement levels to achieve the desired workability. Future research should focus on developing effective chemical admixtures to address the high absorptivity of CC and exploring the feasibility of using low-grade or locally available clays to produce calcined clay cement.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100256,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Waste Systems","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100323"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144221128","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}