Waste Classification and Separation Practices from Türkiye and Selected Countries of the World

Waste is an integral part of our lives. It is a fundamental by-product of human activity. Waste is divided into several groups, including medical, hazardous, municipal, biodegradable, industrial, and inert waste. Both the waste producer and its owners have many obligations imposed upon them by the appropriate standards and laws in force in each country. Waste classification and segregation have many benefits, including less environmental pollution; improved living conditions for plants, animals, and humans, and the ability to obtain better raw materials for recycling through segregation. In this study, waste classification and separation systems are assessed. Waste classification method that considers the source, basic composition, and physical, chemical, and biological properties of the waste. Manual, mechanical, and optical systems were used to separate the waste. Nowadays, smart waste classification and segregation systems are being developed for automation. They separate mixed waste effectively. It is a very modern and efficient method that requires less work to function properly than basic waste classification and segregation methods. It is also a faster, more professional method that avoids incorrect sorting of waste. It can be called a future-oriented way of waste disposal and should gradually be introduced into our civilization. Examples of this technology include smart bins, automatic bottle vending machines, and automatic segregation and sorting. Solving the waste classification and separation problem is one of the issues that need special attention in the coming years. The constant development of technology related to this topic is a staple of the circular economy.