PHILIPPIN E ENV1RON6tENTAL GOVT RNAtsiCE PRO]ECT (ECOGOV)

USAID
FRON THE AI•tERlCAN PEOPLE
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study – A Manual

Suggested Citation: EcoGov Project 2011. Waste Analysis and Characterization Study – A
Manual.
Philippine Environmental Governance Project, Pasig City, Philippines.

Published with the assistance from the American people through the U.S. Agency for International
Development’s (USAID) Philippine Environmental Governance Project (EcoGov). Month and year of
publication: June 2011 (second printing).

The views expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of the USAID or the United States
Government.

Principal Writers: Maria Theresa Espino-Yap, Rebecca Paz, and Evelyn Sagun

Technical Contributions: Erwin Patricio, Kent Omictin, Apple Amor, Diego Tautho, Victor Luis Jr., Melisa
Sapdoy, and Technical Staff of the Solid Waste Management Association of the Philippines (SWAPP)

Book design: Randolf Gustaf P. Luna

Design supervision and print production: Lume Inamac

Photo Credits: EcoGov Field Staff

The EcoGov project is managed by Development Alternatives, Inc., an international consulting firm
engaged in research and policy advocacy, and its subcontractors:
• Cesar Virata & Associates, Inc.
• The Marine Environment and Resources Foundation, Inc.
• Orient Integrated Development Consultants, Inc.
• Resources, Environment and Economics Center for Studies, Inc.
Table of Contents

Acronyms ........................................................................................................................................ vii

Chapter 1. Introduction................................................................................................................ 1
Chapter 2. Preparation and Training........................................................................................ 5
A. Identification of Waste Sources and Defining Sampling Area ..................................... 5
B. Sample Selection: Household and Non-Household Waste Generators .................... 15
C. Sample Selection: End-of-Pipe Waste ............................................................................ 21
D. Selection of Sample Days ................................................................................................. 22
E. Formation and Training of the WACS Team .................................................................. 23
F. Selection and Preparation of the Waste Segregation Site ........................................... 28
G. Preparation of the Waste Collection and Waste Disposal Plan .................................. 29
H. Acquisition and Preparation of Tools, Materials
and Other Resources for Waste Characterization ........................................................ 30
I. Orientation of Cooperators ................................................................................................ 38
J. Preparation for Data Processing ...................................................................................... 38
Chapter 3. Actual Waste Characterization ............................................................................. 39
A. Characterizing Household and Non-Household Waste ................................................ 40
B. Characterizing Market and End-of-Pipe Waste ............................................................. 43
C. Processing the Learning from Waste Characterization ................................................ 44
D. Notes on the Use by LGUs of Representative WACS Data ........................................ 45
Chapter 4. Data Processing and Analysis .............................................................................. 47
A. Data Processing ................................................................................................................. 47
B. Analysis of the Information ................................................................................................ 51
C. Preparing 10-Year Projections ......................................................................................... 55

List of Tables

Table 2.1 Waste Source Categories ...................................................................................... 6

Table 2.2 Number of Households (HH), per Barangay ....................................................... 7
Table 2.3 Number of Waste Generators by Waste Source within LGU, Non-Households .. 9
Table 2.4 Example of Household Sample Determination................................................... 17
Table 2.5 Example of the Computation of Non-Household Sample Size ........................ 20
Table 2.6 Inventory of Collection Routes for One Week .................................................... 21
Table 2.7 Key Functions of Members of the WACS Team ................................................ 23
Table 2.8 Solid Waste Types .................................................................................................. 24
Table 2.9 Sample WACS Field Data Entry Forms
for Households and Non-Households (Excluding Public Market) ............................... 33
Table 2.10 Sample Public Market Data Entry Form ............................................................ 34
Table 2.11 Sample End-of-Pipe Data Entry Form ............................................................... 35
Table 2.12 WACS Field Data Entry Form for Recyclable Wastes .................................... 36
Table 2.13 WACS Field Data Entry Form for Special Wastes........................................... 37
Table 3.1 WACS Field Data Entry Form for Recyclable Wastes ...................................... 45
Table 4.1 Summary of Total Waste Generation Within Collection Area .......................... 50
Table 4.2 Summary of Total Waste Generation in Municipality/City ................................ 50
Table 4.3 Summary of End-of-Pipe Waste ........................................................................... 51
Table 4.4 10-Year Waste Generation Projections, within Collection Area,
Without Intervention Scenario .......................................................................................... 57
Table 4.5 10-Year Waste Collection and Disposal Projections,
within Collection Area, With Intervention Scenario ....................................................... 58
 List of Figures

Figure 2.1 Sample Waste Characterization Area Lay-out ................................................. 28

Figure 4.1 Process in Establishing Initial WACS Database using Sample Data ............ 48
Figure 4.2 Process in Deriving Waste Generation in Collection Area and Whole LGU 49
Figure 4.3 Process in Preparing Projections........................................................................ 56
Figure 4.4 Waste Stream Scenarios within Collection Area (kg/day), 10 years. ............ 60

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Acronyms

CA Collection Area
EcoGov The Philippine Environmental Governance Project
FGD Focus Group Discussion
HH Household
ISWM Integrated Solid Waste Management
KAP Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices
LGU Local Government Unit
MRF Materials Recovery Facility
NSWMC National Solid Waste Management Commission
RA Republic Act
SWM Solid Waste Management
TWG Technical Working Group
USAID United States Agency for International Development
WACS Waste Analysis and Characterization Study

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

viii

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Chapter 1
Introduction

Integrated solid waste management (ISWM)

planning, like any other planning activity, requires a
good analysis of the current situation to provide a
firm basis for critical planning decisions.

At the start of ISWM planning, it is important to know

who the waste generators are, where they are
located, how much and what types of waste they
generate, and what their current knowledge, attitudes,
practices and experiences are on SWM. These
information are crucial to the development of the key
strategies and components of an ISWM plan:

(a) Communication and education interventions

(e.g., who are priority target groups? what is
their current SWM knowledge level?);
(b) Enforcement strategies (e.g., who are priority
target groups? what will motivate them to
comply? who are appropriate enforcers?);
(c) Physical facilities (e.g., what is volume of
waste for collection? how many trucks will
be needed? what is available for
composting? for disposal? what are types of
recyclables? will materials recovery facilities
or MRFs be needed in all barangays?); and
(d) Financing (e.g., is payment of fees for
garbage collection services acceptable? can
revenues be generated from the processing
or trading of waste materials?)

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

The initial assessment will also provide the baseline data that can be the basis for the future
evaluation of the changes and impacts of the ISWM program.

Republic Act (RA) 9003, otherwise known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act requires
Local Government Units (LGUs) to prepare 10-year SWM plans. Part of their task is to conduct an
activity called the Waste Analysis and Characterization Study or WACS.

Section 17 of the Act defines waste characterization as “the identification of constituent materials which comprise
solid waste generated and disposed of within an area. It identifies constituent materials by volume, percentage in
weight or its volumetric equivalent, material type and source of generation which includes residential, commercial,
industrial and institutional.” The Act further provides the basic method for doing the WACS, the final result of which
is a set of data that shows the per capita and total waste generation and composition of such waste in a particular
LGU. ISWM plans submitted to the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) for review and
approval are expected to include a discussion of the WACS results.

The WACS approach described and illustrated in this manual is the result of more than five years of
work by the Philippine Environmental Governance Project (EcoGov) and its LGU partners to
develop a waste assessment and characterization process that meets the intent of RA 9003 and is
also practical, replicable and affordable for relatively small LGUs.

The key features of the recommended WACS approach are:

• It has an implementation period of at least three days. The shift from seven days to a shorter
period is supported by a statistical analysis which showed no significant differences between
the seven-day and three-day WACS data of 49 EcoGov-assisted LGUs (10 cities and 39
municipalities).

• It looks at both ends of the waste stream – waste generation at source, and waste at the
“end of the pipe” (i.e., the waste that are collected and brought to the disposal area). The
study intends to provide an estimate of the waste that “leaks out” of the stream or the
“unaccounted waste.” This refers to generated waste that are uncollected and therefore
disposed in backyards, open spaces, rivers and creeks.

LGUs with no waste collection services will focus its WACS on waste generation at source.

• WACS generates these basic data for planning:

- Waste generation at source (e.g., per unit and total per source)
- Total waste generation within collection area and in the whole LGU
- Composition of waste generated at source
- Volume and composition of waste brought to the disposal site
- Potential percentage of waste for diversion at source and at disposal site
- Percentage of generated waste within collection area that are not collected or accounted
for (i.e., wastes not reaching the disposal facility).

• Waste generation at source is estimated with samples from two types of waste generators: households and
non-households. Non-household sources include public markets, general stores, food establishments,
industries, institutions, recreation centers, service centers and health-related facilities.

• Sample waste generators are taken from within a defined sampling area, which normally
cover the urban and urbanizing barangays with collection services. Sampling is stratified
according to income level (for households) or size of operations (for non-households) and
geographic location.
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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 In LGUs where there are special waste-related interests or concerns such as proximity of coastal
settlements to marine key biodiversity areas, existence of industrial/economic zones, and
presence of large agricultural plantations, the process of sample selection may be adjusted to
include the concerned barangay or a representative barangay in the sampling area.

• The end-of-pipe waste study looks at existing waste collection routes and one truck for
every distinct route and schedule is selected as a sample.

• At source and end-of-pipe waste are characterized into four waste types: biodegradable,
recyclable, residual, and special waste.

• LGUs which are unable to do actual WACS are given the option to use “representative”
data. This means the adoption, fully or partially, of the WACS data of another LGU with
similar socio-economic conditions. LGUs who decide to adopt this are made aware of the
pros and cons of this approach.

• Standard results are generated from the use of a series of linked MS Excel templates or
spreadsheets. In addition to facilitating data processing, use of standard templates allows the
data (raw and processed) to be stored and accessed systematically. This, likewise, ensures that
data generated at different time periods (i.e., for performance evaluation) will be comparable.

• It encourages the participation of various sectors and stakeholders. EcoGov experience

showed that doing WACS with the active participation of municipal/city and barangay
officials, youth groups, market vendors associations, schools and other sectors generates
local ownership of the information and greater support for SWM program implementation as
stakeholders develop a better appreciation of the current situation.

• The feedback of WACS results to LGU decision-makers and key stakeholders forms part of
the overall process, designed to strengthen the good governance systems of LGUs.

There are three stages in carrying out the WACS. For consistency, the manual is similarly divided
into three parts:

• Preparation and Training describes the activities needed to ensure that all inputs and
resources for the study are ready for the actual waste characterization.

• Actual Waste Characterization provides detailed guidelines for the efficient segregation
and measurement of the different types of waste from sample waste generators and the
proper recording of data.

• Data Processing and Analysis explains and illustrates how the gathered sample data are
processed and analyzed for SWM planning.

The WACS Manual is designed to guide those who intend to train LGUs on the conduct of WACS
and those who will actually manage the conduct of WACS in an LGU such as the LGU SWM
Coordinator/Office or Technical Working Group (TWG). It features definition of key concepts used,
easy to follow step-by-step procedure and case illustrations using actual LGU data and examples. It
likewise provides the recommended templates for data entry and data summaries in an
accompanying CD. The user of this Manual, therefore, whether a trainer or implementer, will be
equipped with needed tools to successfully complete the study.

It should be noted, however, that this manual only provides one aspect of the current SWM situation
in an LGU. Though it generates important and useful information, it does not cover the human
behavior aspect upon which the success of an effective SWM program depends.
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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Thus, EcoGov proposes that WACS be supplemented by a rapid knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP)
assessment to generate insights on what may constrain or facilitate the adoption of good SWM practices by
individuals, households and communities. This may be done through focus group discussions (FGDs) with specific
target groups (e.g., representatives from coastal settlements, market vendors). For gender-enhanced ISWM
planning process, equal representation of men and women is considered in selecting target FGD participants. The
user of this material may refer to the FGD manual that was separately developed by EcoGov.

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Chapter 2
Preparation
and Training
A WACS requires sufficient lead time for planning
the activity. There are at least 10 tasks that need to
be performed by the LGU SWM Technical Working
Group (TWG) and Coordinator/Officer at the
preparatory stage. These tasks will make sure that
(a) the waste samples for the study are
representative of waste generation and collection in
the LGU, (b) the different actors involved in the
study, i.e., cooperators, collection crew, sorters,
data processors, are ready to perform their tasks,
and (c) the needed resources and logistics are
available.

A. Identification of Waste Sources and

Defining Sampling Area

The first step is to inventory all waste sources or

generators within the LGU and know their barangay
location. The generators can be categorized using the
waste source categories in Table 2.1.
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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 2.1. Waste Source Categories

Category Sub-Category
Households

• Main public
Public Market market
• Satellite public markets (with structure)
• Talipapa (open market)

Food • Restaurants (with dine-in facilities)

Establishmen • Carinderias/eateries
ts • Bakeries
• Food stalls
General • Malls/department stores
Stores • Grocery stores
• Other general stores (hardware stores, sari-sari store, dry good stores)
Industrie • Agro-industries, e.g., piggeries and poultries
s • Food processing industries
• Cottage industries – non-food, e.g., furniture-making, weaving, handicrafts
• Manufacturing industries
• Agricultural plantations (which have solid waste that are disposed off-site, e.g., banana and
sugarcane plantations)
• Rice, corn and sugar mills
Institution • City/Municipal Hall/Provincial Capitol
s • Other government/private offices (banks, regional/provincial offices of national government
agencies or NGAs, non-government organizations or NGOs)
• Churches
• Schools
- Day care centers
- Elementary schools
- High schools
- Colleges/universities
Service • Hotels/Inns
Center - Hotels
s - Hostels/lodging inns
• Transport terminals
• Funeral homes
• Other service centers (parlor/barber/tailor shops, junkshops/machine/repair
shops/gasoline
stations, pawnshops, lending centers, printing and copying centers,
video/internet/computer
shops)
Recreatio • Resorts/public beaches
n • Parks and other public places, including cemeteries
Centers • Cockpits
• Gyms/sports centers(basketball courts and auditoriums)
• Other recreation centers (movie houses, disco houses, videoke bars, billiard halls)
Slaughterhouse

Health-
Related
Sources
 - Secondary hospitals
- Tertiary hospitals
• Health centers/clinics
• Hospitals
• Pharmacies/drug stores
6

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

In the inventory of non-households, all individual establishments which are located within the public
market, malls and transport terminals will be considered as part of these categories. A public
market, for example, will include all business establishments within its boundary or compound.
Make sure that there will be no double counting of these establishments in the inventory.

The next step (SECOND STEP) is to define the sampling area. This will include the urban and
urbanizing barangays that are covered fully or partially by the current solid waste collection services
of the LGU. If the LGU has no existing waste collection program, identify the urban and urbanizing
barangays which will be priority for organized waste collection services.

If there are barangays or zones outside the defined sampling area which the LGU consider as solid
waste “hotspots,” the LGU should include these barangays or representative barangays in the sample.
Examples are barangays along important water bodies, marine key biodiversity areas or marine
protected areas. These can also be the host barangays of economic zones, ecotourism sites, large
agricultural plantations, and densely populated settlements. The information that will be generated on
these barangays/major waste generators can be used as basis in addressing the threats posed by
improper solid waste management practices to the immediate environment and downstream areas.

Separate lists should be prepared for waste generators within the sampling area. Tables 2.2 and
2.3 can be used to summarize the number of households and non-household sources in the LGU. If
the LGU has no data on current household population, it may use the latest census data, adjusted
to the current year using an assumed annual growth rate.

In Table 2.2, it is necessary to indicate whether the barangay is upland, lowland or coastal. It is
important to know the distribution of barangays within the LGU landscape especially in coastal LGU
where SWM objectives include the reduction of coastal pollution. It is also important to note the
percentage of households in each barangay which are provided garbage collection services by the
LGU. This will range from 0 (no collection services) to 100% (fully covered). These data define the
entire waste collection area of the LGU.

Table 2.2. Number of Households (HH), per Barangay

Barangays Within Whole Upland / Lowland / Coastal No. of HHs (current year) % Covered by Waste
LGU Collection Services

Urban Barangays

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 2.2. Number of Households (HH), per Barangay (Continued)
 2
1
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual
 Table 2.3. Number of Waste Generators by Waste Source within LGU, Non-Households

Public Market Food Establishments General Stores

Mall/ Other
Barangays Carinderi Foo Departme Groce Gener
Within Main Satellite Talipapa Restaurant as/ Bakeries d nt Stores ry al
Collection s Eateries Stall Stores Stores
Area s
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Urban Barangays

Urbanizing
Barangays

Rural Barangays

TOTAL
9
 10
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 2.3. Number of Waste Generators by Waste Source within LGU, Non-Households (Continued)

Baranga Industries Institutions

ys
Within Agro- Cottage Food Manu- Agricultu Rice, Municip Other Church School
Collectio Industri Industri Processi facturin ral Sugar al/ City Gov’t/ s
n Area es es ng g Plantatio and Corn Hall/ Privat Day Elementa High Colleges/
Industrie Industri ns Mills Provinci e Care ry Scho Universiti
s es al Office Schools ol es
Capitol s
Urban
Baranga
ys

Urbanizi
ng
Baranga
ys
 Table 2.3. Number of Waste Generators by Waste Source within LGU, Non-Households (Continued)
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Baranga Industries Institutions

ys
Within Agro- Cottage Food Manu- Agricultu Rice, Municip Other Church School
Collectio Industri Industri Processi facturin ral Sugar al/ City Gov’t/ s
n Area es es ng g Plantatio and Corn Hall/ Privat Day Elementa High Colleges/
Industrie Industri ns Mills Provinci e Care ry Scho Universiti
s es al Office Schools ol es
Capitol s
Rural
Baranga
ys

TOTAL
11
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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 2.3. Number of Waste Generators by Waste Source within LGU, Non-Households (Continued)

Barangays Service Recreation Slaughterhou

Within Centers Centers se
Collection Hotels/Inns Transpor Funer Other Resort Parks and Gyms/ Cockpits Other
Area t al Servic s/ Other Sport Recreati
Hotels Hostel Terminal Home e Public Public s on
s/ s s Cente Beach Places Cente Centers
Lodgi rs es rs
ng
Inns
Urban Barangays

Urbanizing
Barangays
 Table 2.3. Number of Waste Generators by Waste Source within LGU, Non-Households (Continued)

Barangays Service Recreation Slaughterhou

Within Centers Centers se
Collection Hotels/Inns Transpor Funer Other Resort Parks and Gyms/ Cockpits Other
Area t al Servic s/ Other Sport Recreati
Hotels Hostel Terminal Home e Public Public s on
s/ s s Cente Beach Places Cente Centers
Lodgi rs es rs
ng
Inns
Rural Barangays
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

TOTAL
13
 Table 2.3. Number of Waste Generators by Waste Source within LGU, Non-Households (Continued)

Barangays Health-Related Sources

Within
Pharmacies Health Hospita
Collection
Center ls
Area
s/ Seconda Tertiary
Clinics ry Hospita
Hospital ls
s
Urban Barangays

Urbanizing
Barangays

Rural Barangays

TOTAL

14

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

A. Sample Selection: Household and Non-Household
Waste Generators

In WACS, it is not necessary to survey all waste sources in the LGU.

A representative sample of waste sources found in the LGU’s
inventory of waste generators may be used to derive estimates
of the total waste generation within the collection area and the
entire LGU.

Different sampling methods will be used to select the household and

non-household samples, which will be referred to in this Manual as
“cooperators.” For small to medium LGUs, it is recommended that
total sample size for households be at least 30. This recommended
sample size is based on pre-sampling studies (which made use of the
standard sample size demonstration formulas and other statistical
tools) conducted by EcoGov in small and medium LGUs which
yielded sample sizes of less than 20 households. A sample size of
30 provides ample allowance for other sampling considerations.

An LGU may opt to use this suggestion or compute the sample

size using the standard sampling formula. It may consider a sample It is important to involve in this
size greater than 30 households but must bear in mind that a task the Municipal/City Planning
bigger sample size will entail more expenses and time to complete and Development Coordinator as
the study. income ranges may already be
available in LGU profiles and
The size of the non-household sample will depend on the number income studies.
and geographic spread of the waste generators in the LGU.

The steps to selecting the sample households are described below. Also refer to Table 2.4 which illustrates the
step-by-step process through an example.

1. Decide on the sample size: 30 households or more. Make sure to record the desired sample size. See
top row of Table 2.4.

2. Establish the income ranges that suitably describe the high, middle and low income households in
the LGU. An LGU may develop its own income ranges or use those in national income statistics. It
is not necessary that all LGUs adopt standard income ranges. After establishing the income ranges,
determine percentage of the LGU’s population belonging to high, middle and low income levels.

3. Determine the number of household samples per income level. This means distributing the desired
sample size (30 households or more) to high, middle and low income levels.

4. Get from Table 2.2 the list of barangays within the sampling area and corresponding number of
households. Add the total numbers of households of the barangays in the sampling area.

5. Determine the percentage share of the number of households per barangay to total number of
households of the barangays in the sampling area.

6. Distribute the number of household samples per income level (established in Step 3) among the
barangays in the sampling area according to the percentage computed in Step 5. This should provide
the number of samples per income level per barangay.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 7. In barangays which are not fully covered by collection services, distribute further the number of
household samples according to access to collection services (see last column of Table 2.2). For
example, if the LGU’s collection coverage is only 70% of the total households of the barangay, then 70%
of the sample should be selected from households with collection services and 30% without collection
services.

8. Decide how many samples will be taken based on the figures derived in Step 6 (full or zero coverage)
or Step 7 (partial coverage). In the example in Table 2.4, take note of at least three decision points
in the last column (step 8). The team will have to decide on the number of sample for the specific
categories.The resulting sample may exceed the original sample size of 30.

9. Develop a list of selected household samples in the different barangays with the help of barangay/sitio
leaders. Provide for alternates (i.e., extra names) in case the listed households do not agree to be part
of the study.

Some considerations in choosing sample households:

a. The household must have 4-6 members only. This will reduce the variability of the waste generation
data among sample households.

b. The households must not be engaged in home-based businesses (e.g., sari-sari stores, handicrafts,
food processing) particularly those which increase waste generation within the household.

c. They must be willing to cooperate with the LGU for the duration of the study.

d. There is no significant event (birthdays, weddings, fiesta, etc.) that the household expects to
celebrate within the study period.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Table 2.4. Example of Household Sample Determination

Step 1. No. of HH Samples 30

Step 2. Assumed percentage of HHs belonging to income
class level (examples)
High Income (Above P300,000/yr) 10%
Middle Income (P121,000 –P300,000/yr) 40%
Low Income (Below P120,000/yr) 50%
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Step 3. No. of HH samples per income level

High Income Class (30 X 10%) 3
Middle Income Class (30 X 40%) 12
Low Income Class (30 X 50%) 15

Barangays Total No. % to Total No. No. of Samples Per Income Distribution of HH No. of
within of of HHs in Level (Step 6, i.e., from samples to Collection HH
Sampling Household Barangays Steps 3 and 5) Area (CA) and Sample
Area (Step 4) s Per within Non-Collection Area (Non- s (Step
Barangay Sampling Area CA) (Step 7) 8)
(Step 4) (Step 5)
Barangay 1 500 20% High Income Class 0.6 % CA 70% 0.4 1
(500/2,45 (3 X 20%) (0.6 X 70%) (or 0)
0)
% Non-CA 30% 0.2
(0.6 X 30%)
Middle Income 2.4 % CA 70% 1.7 2
Class (12 X 20%) (2.4 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.7 1
(2.4 X 30%)
Low Income Class 3.0 % CA 70% 2.1 2
(15 X 20%) (3.1 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.9 1
(3.1 X 30%)
17
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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 2.4. Example of Household Sample Determination (Continued)

Barangays Total No. % to Total No. No. of Samples Per Income Distribution of HH No. of
within of of HHs in Level (Step 6, i.e., from samples to Collection HH
Sampling Household Barangays Steps 3 and 5) Area (CA) and Sample
Area (Step 4) s Per within Non-Collection Area (Non- s (Step
Barangay Sampling Area CA) (Step 7) 8)
(Step 4) (Step 5)
Barangay 2 450 18% High Income Class 0.5 % CA 70% 0.4 0
(450/2,45 (3 X 18%) (0.6 X 70%) (or 1)
0)
% Non-CA 30% 0.2
(0.6 X 30%)
Middle Income 2.2 % CA 70% 1.5 1
Class (12 X 18%) (2.2 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.7 1
(2.2 X 30%)
Low Income Class 2.7 % CA 70% 1.9 2
(15 X 18%) (2.8 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.8 1
(2.8 X 30%)
Barangay 3 800 32% High Income Class 1.0 % CA 70% 0.7 1
(800/2,45 (3 X 32%) (1.0 X 70%)
0)
% Non-CA 30% 0.3
(1.0 X 30%)
Middle Income 3.8 % CA 70% 2.7 3
Class (12 X 32%) (3.9 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 1.2 1
(3.9 X 30%)
Low Income Class 4.8 % CA 70% 3.4 3
(15 X 32%) (4.9 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 1.5 1
(4.9 X 30%) (or 2)
 Table 2.4. Example of Household Sample Determination (Continued)

Barangays Total No. % to Total No. No. of Samples Per Income Distribution of HH No. of
within of of HHs in Level (Step 6, i.e., from samples to Collection HH
Sampling Household Barangays Steps 3 and 5) Area (CA) and Sample
Area (Step 4) s Per within Non-Collection Area (Non- s (Step
Barangay Sampling Area CA) (Step 7) 8)
(Step 4) (Step 5)
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Barangay 4 500 20% High Income Class 0.6 % CA 70% 0.4

(500/2,45 (3 X 20%) (0.6 X 70%)
0) % Non-CA 30% 0.2
(0.6 X 30%)
Middle Income 2.4 % CA 70% 1.7 2
Class (12 X 20%) (2.4 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.7 1
(2.4 X 30%)
Low Income Class 3.0 % CA 70% 2.1 2
(15 X 20%) (3.1 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.9 1
(3.1 X 30%)
Barangay 5 200 8% High Income Class 0.2 % CA 70% 0.1
(200/2,45 (3 X 8%) (0.2 X 70%)
0)
% Non-CA 30% 0.1
(0.2 X 30%)
Middle Income 1.0 % CA 70% 0.7 1
Class (12 X 8%) (1.0 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.3
(1.0 X 30%)
Low Income Class 1.2 % CA 70% 0.9 1
(15 X 8%) (1.2 X 70%)
% Non-CA 30% 0.4
(1.2 X 30%)
TOTAL 2,450 30
19
 To select sample establishments and institutions, follow these steps below and the illustration in Table 2.5.

1. Validate with concerned barangay officials the inventory of non-household waste sources within the
sampling area. Refer to Table 2.3.

Before proceeding to the next step, prepare a table similar to Table 2.5. Enter all waste categories
and sub-categories that are relevant to the sampling area and the corresponding total number per
inventory.

2. Go through each category. Stratify each sub-category according to size – small, medium and large.
Decide how many of the total number per sub-category can be included in the sample. As a general
rule, 10% of the stratified total is sufficient but more can actually be included if desired and if enough
resources are available. Make sure that all sub-categories are represented. If a category has only one
establishment, it should be included in the sample.

Table 2.5. Example of the Computation of Non-Household Sample Size

Category Sub-Category Inventory No. of Non-HH No. of Non-HH

Waste Sources According to samples (10% of
Size Total No.)
Large Mediu Small TOTAL Large Mediu Smal TOTA
m m l L
Food Restaurants (with 5 5 0 1 0 1
Establishme dine-in facilities)
nts 5 10 20 35
Carinderias/eateries 1 1 2 4
1 1
Bakeries 0 0 1 1
20 20
Food stalls 0 0 2 2
General Malls/department 0 0 0 0 0
Stores stores 1 1
Groceries 0 0 1 1
5 25 30
Other general stores 1 0 3 4
(hardwares, sari-sari
stores, dry good
stores)
Institutions City/Municipal 1 1 1 0 0 1
Hall/ Provincial
Capitol 10 10
Other 0 1 0 1
government/private
5 5
offices
Churches 0 0 1 1
Schools
Day Care 5 5 0 0 1 1
Elementary schools 10 10 0 1 0 1
High schools 10 10 0 1 0 1
Colleges/universitie 0 0 0 0 0
s

3. Select randomly from the inventory of non-household waste generators the specific establishments
and institutions that will compose the sample. Consider alternates for each sub-category.

20 If there is special interest on the part of theTWG to know more about specific waste types produced

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

by some establishments which are included in the sample, it can highlight or mark these establishments
in the list. For example, the TWG may want to know the volume of food waste that are generated
from restaurants, fastfood centers or hotels to be able to suggest ways to process them.These specific
establishments who will be studied will have to be identified in the sample.

21

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 B. Sample Selection: End-of-Pipe Waste

For the analysis of end-of-pipe waste, the recommended sample is the whole truckload of waste for disposal.
This means that all the waste materials contained in one truck, whether full or not, are sorted and measured.
This recommendation considers the difficulty in getting a homogeneous sample (of one cubic meter) from a
truckload of waste especially if the collection route covers various sources. This method has been tested and
found more practical by EcoGov and its partner LGUs.

To select the collection truck that will provide the waste sample, follow these steps:

1. Review the current waste collection system of the LGU, i.e., the number of trucks, routes and number
of trips per day, number of trips in a week. Note the major waste generators that are serviced in
a complete collection route, i.e., the itinerary of the truck from the time it leaves its base until it
proceeds to the disposal site. Estimate volume (in cubic meter) of waste per truckload per collection
route and the days in the specific collection route is scheduled.

Table 2.6. Inventory of Collection Routes for One Week

Collecti Waste Estimat Schedule

on Sources ed (Mark day of collection schedule. Indicate time and no. of
Route Covered Volume trips per day)
(HH, of Waste Monda Tuesda Wednesd Thursda Frida Saturda Sunda
public Collected y y ay y y y y
market, and
etc.) Brought
to
Disposal
Facility,
cu m/day
Route 1
Route 2
Route 3
Route 4
Route 5
Route 6
Route 7
Route 8
Route 9
Route 10

2. Determine the typical waste mix in the various routes. These could be:
- market waste only (i.e., if LGU is collecting market waste separately from non-market waste)
- mixed market and non-market waste (if LGU is collecting market and non-market waste in one
collection route)
- non-market waste only (if LGU has collection routes that are for non-market waste only)
- others (if LGU has separate and regular collection services to specific generators such as malls,
parks, subdivisions, etc.)

22

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 3. Select one truck for every distinct route.

For example, the LGU has two trucks. One collects market waste and the waste of establishments and
households in the central business district. The other only collects household waste from two urban
barangays.The end-of-pipe sample will be the waste from both trucks as they have distinct routes and
cover different sets of waste generators.The composition of the waste load will be different.

C. Selection of Sample Days

The three-day study period should cover at least one market day, one ordinary day and one weekend. Waste
generators are expected to have different waste generation patterns on these days. If the LGU has two market
days, four days are recommended so both market days are covered. It is further suggested that the study be
done in consecutive days, for example,Thursday to Saturday or Sunday to Tuesday.

It is important to note that a “sample” day refers to the day

One practice that has been found when the waste is generated. It differs from the “collection”
useful by many WACS teams is to day or the day when the sample waste is collected from the
add an extra day (one day before) to cooperator. Example: If the sample days are Thursday to
the sample days. This extra day is Saturday, the cooperator is expected to save and segregate
used as “practice” day by the WACS all wastes generated the whole day of Thursday. The Thursday
team and cooperators. The results waste sample should be ready for collection by the WACS
need not be included in the team on Friday morning. The cooperator will do the same task
database. everyday until the end of Saturday.The collection by the WACS
team of the Saturday waste sample will be on Sunday.

Waste collection practices in public markets differ so the WACS team needs to understand clearly when (time
and day) the waste for the selected sample days are collected, especially on market days when a larger waste
volume is expected. In some public markets, collection is done twice a day; in others, waste collection is done
either after the close of market hours or early morning of the following day.It is important that the LGU is able
to account for the waste generated each day of the study period. If, for example, the sample days are Thursday
to Saturday and Friday is the market day, it must be ascertained if waste that is collected on Saturday morning
is still part of the market day waste (Friday) or of the Saturday (non-market day) waste.

For the end-of-pipe analysis, the sample days may be different from what is described above. Since sampling
is based on the actual collection routes, the sample days will depend on the schedule for specific routes. For
example, if the sample days are Thursday to Saturday and there is one important regular collection route that
is done only on Mondays and Wednesdays, then such route (either Monday or Wednesday) should be included.
It must be verified, however, if this collection route and the mix of waste sources are indeed distinct from the
other routes.

23

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 D. Formation and Training of the WACS Team

The LGU has to constitute a team that will be responsible

for the successful conduct of the actual characterization
activity and initial data processing. The team should be
formed early enough so they can take part in planning
and preparing for the activity. The WACS team can
include members of the TWG, other LGU officials and
staff, barangay officials, national agency partners and
stakeholders.

The team will be composed of the following: a team

leader, a logistics in-charge, recorders, weighers/scalers,
sorters and waste collectors, and data processors. Sub-
teams composed of one recorder, one weigher/scaler
and several sorters will be assigned to specific waste
sources (e.g., households, public market). The size of
the full team will depend on the sample size, length Based on EcoGov experience: 1 sorter can
of the study period, and available LGU resources. An handle 10 household/non-household
LGU in Mindanao which did a three-day WACS with 60 samples in a day while 8 to 12 sorters are
cooperators deployed a 41-person team (1 Team Leader, needed for public market and end-of- pipe
6 collectors, 20 sorters, 7 weighers/ scalers, 5 recorders waste characterization.
and 2 data processors).

Each member has to fully understand the specific role he/she will be performing during the WACS
(see Table 2.7).

Table 2.7. Key Functions of Members of the WACS Team

Team Member Key Functions

Team Leader • Participate in the WACS planning activities initiated by the LGU SWM
Coordinator/Officer or TWG
• Lead the team in the preparation for and execution of the waste characterization
activity
• Ensure that both the cooperators and the WACS team members are well
informed about their responsibilities and the procedures that will be followed.
• Ensure that the data forms to be submitted for processing are complete.
Logistics In-charge • Procure the needed tools and materials for the activity and organize their
distribution to the concerned persons/teams. Label and distribute plastic bags
to cooperators, in coordination with assigned waste collectors.
• Help identify the appropriate sorting site; secure the appropriate collection
vehicles.
• Ensure that sufficient copies of the data forms are reproduced.
• Ensure the presence of a nurse/health worker in the site to provide first aid in
case of accidents and other health related cases; establish a procedure for
dealing with these cases.
• Man the logistics/first-aid station within the waste characterization site.
• Ensure that the WACS Team is provided with clean water supply and food.
• Make sure that the site is cleaned after the exercise.
Sorters • Make sure that the sorting places are in order before starting any sorting work.
• Make sure that segregation of waste is properly done.
• Orient other persons taking part in the exercise on proper waste segregation.
• Make sure that at the end of the exercise, sorted wastes are brought to the
designated area for proper disposal.
24 • Make sure that all sorting tools are accounted for at the end of each day.

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 2.7. Key Functions of Members of the WACS Team (Continued)

Team Member Key Functions

Weighers/Scalers • Properly calibrate the receptacles to be used.
• Provide consistent reading of the weights and estimation of volume of
the different waste materials.
• Work closely with the recorder to make sure that the data recorded are accurate.
Recorders • Prepare a separate record for each cooperator for each day.
• Ensure that the data recorded are accurate and clearly written.
• Make sure that the completed forms are submitted to the data processors at the
end of each day.
Waste collection – • Assist the Team Leader in preparing a waste collection and a waste disposal
in- charge plan.
• Orient the LGU collection crew on the said plans.
• Ensure that the collection vehicle is in good running condition for the duration of
the study.
• Ensure that the collection of sample waste from cooperators is done efficiently.
• Make sure that all wastes in the waste characterization site are properly
disposed at the end of each day.
Data processors • Collect completed field data entry forms daily and maintain record of
collected forms during the study period.
• Encode data from individual data entry forms into the Excel spreadsheets.
• Conduct initial processing of data based on generated summary tables.

All members have to be provided an orientation on the WACS objectives and process.They need to be trained
on proper waste segregation (see Table 2.8) and informed of the ristks and hazards during waste sorting.
Those who will be assigned to generators whose waste will be subjected to further characterization or analysis
(e.g., restaurants, fastfood centers and hotels for their food waste) will require clear instructions on what they
will segregate and measure, and where the information will be recorded. It should be noted that the data entry
forms and the spreadsheets in this manual do not provide for this special studies.

The team members also need to be familiar with the proposed layout of the waste segregation site, the tools
that they will use (calibrated receptacles, weighing scales, recording forms, etc.), and the procedures that will
be followed before, during and after the exercise.

Those assigned as weighers/scalers and recorders may need to undergo a hands-on training on the calibration
of measuring tools, reading of weights, conversion of weights to volume and use of data entry forms.

25

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Table 2.8. Solid Waste Types

Biodegrada Recyclable Waste Residual Waste Special Waste

ble Waste
Waste that will Any waste material retrieved from Waste which cannot Household hazardous
decompose the waste stream and free from be used for other waste, bulky waste,
under natural contamination that can still be purposes, thus, for consumer electronics, white
conditions converted into suitable beneficial transport to goods, yard waste
use or for other purposes. disposal site
• Food waste • Dry paper (newspaper, office • Ashes and soot • Household toxic
• Yard waste paper) and cartons/cardboard • Dirt and hazardous
and • Tin cans • Tattered waste
trimmings • Metals (steel, copper, textile, paper - spent fluorescent
(leaves, aluminum, iron brass) and other tubes and bulbs,
twigs, grass • Bottles and broken glass packaging spent dry and wet
cuttings) (including cullets or bubog) materials, cell batteries,
• Vegetable • Rubber (used tires) e.g., expired drugs and
and fruit • Textile trimmings cigarette chemicals, chemical
residues • Plastics packs containers (paints,
(rinds, • Laminates thinner, liquid “sosa”,
peels, and acids, rugby, roof
seeds) composite cement, grease and
• Fish materials, oil, cleaners,
cleaning/ e.g., tetra insecticides,
processing packs, milk disinfectants,
waste boxes sanitizers, asbestos
(gills, fins, • Sando bags, materials, spray
scales) thin film containers)
• Chicken plastics
feathers • Food
and egg wrappers,
shells candy
• Agricultural wrappers
waste • Used sanitary
(manure, napkins, tissue
plant stalks, paper and
rice hulls, disposable
coconut diapers
husks, • Broken
sugarcane ceramics and
trash) other glazed
• Wet paper materials
and cartons • Tattered/
contaminat
ed
Styropor

26

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

• Polyethylene • Bulky waste (waste
Terephthalate (PET, PETE) materials which cannot
- plastic soft drinks, mineral be appropriately placed
water, sports drink, beer, in separate containers
mouthwash, catsup and because of its bulky
salad dressing bottles size, shape or other
- peanut butter, jelly and jam physical attributes)
jars - furniture, lamps,
bookcases, filing
cabinets
- demolition and
construction
debris
- typhoon debris
- yard waste
(tree
branches)

27

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Table 2.8. Solid Waste Types (Continued)

Biodegrada Recyclable Waste Residual Waste Special Waste

ble Waste
• High Density Polyethylene • White goods (large
(HDPE) worn- out or broken
- milk, water, juice, household,
cosmetic, shampoo, commercial and
dish and laundry industrial
detergent bottles appliances; usually
- yogurt and margarine tubs dismantled for the
recovery of specific
materials such as copper
aluminum)
- stoves,
refrigerators,
dishwashers,
clothes washers
and dryers
- consumer
electronics (worn-
out, broken and
other discarded
items such as
radios, stereos,
television sets,
amplifiers, cameras
and electric fans)
• Vinyl (Polyvinyl Chloride or
PVC)
- clear food and non-
food packaging, wire
and cable insulation
- construction products
such as pipes and
window frames

28

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

• Low Density Polyethylene
(LDPE)
- Dry cleaning, bread and
frozen food bags,
squeezable bottles

29

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Table 2.8. Solid Waste Types (Continued)

Biodegrada Recyclable Waste Residual Waste Special Waste

ble Waste
• Polypropylene (PP)
- Catsup bottles, yogurt
containers and margarine
tubs
- Drinking straws
- Compact disk jackets
(colored)

• Polystyrene (PS)
- Grocery store meat trays,
cups, plates, egg trays

• High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)

- Refrigerator linings,
bathroom cabinets,
tanks, instrument
control knobs, calculator

Sources: RA9003 and IRR and http://www.google.com.ph/image

For the purposes of the waste characterization exercise, health-related wastes such as syringes, gloves and
infectious wastes, can initially be classified as special waste.

30

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

E. Selection and Preparation of the Waste Segregation Site

A suitable site for the waste segregation activity is one

that is roofed (or can be covered by canvass sheets), has
good ventilation (i.e., not enclosed by walls on all sides),
and is accessible. The site must be big enough to allow
simultaneous sorting of waste from various sources.

The team must prepare a layout of the site to show where

sub-teams will be stationed. This will also facilitate the
bringing in and out of the waste samples. Figure 2.1 shows
a sample layout of the waste characterization area.
Note the assignment of areas for logistics, first aid, water
and eating area.
A covered basketball court is a suitable site for waste segregation.

It is important to inform in advance barangay officials and nearby houses about the activity and the
possible disturbances (i.e., odor, noise) such activity may cause them.

Figure 2.1. Sample Waste Characterization Area Lay-out

Based on the layout, the sub-teams can then decide how to arrange the sorting mats.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 F. Preparation of the waste collection and waste disposal plan

The main responsibility of the waste collectors of the

WACS team is to ensure the efficient collection and
delivery of waste samples from different cooperators to
the waste segregation site. These activities are suggested
for the preparation of a waste collection plan.

1. Study the geographic distribution of the selected

cooperators and their relative distances from the
waste characterization site.
2. Determine the most efficient collection routes
and the number of trips that have to be taken to
complete the collection of all samples within a
given time period (e.g., 8:00 am to 10:00 am).
3. Determine the appropriate vehicle or vehicles to
use for sample collection.
4. If needed, conduct a dry run to locate the cooperators and establish the actual travel time.
5. Discuss the final schedules and routes with the assigned drivers and collectors.

The waste collected from the public market is used to establish both waste generation and end-
of-pipe data so market waste should not be mixed with waste from other sources. If the truck
selected in the end-of-pipe sample is supposed to cover both the public market and other
sources, special arrangements should be made on the sample days (only for the purpose of the
study) that the collection of market and non-market waste and their delivery to the segregation
site be done separately. The data generated on both will be combined when end-of-pipe data
are analyzed.
In preparing the waste collection and delivery plan, special attention must be given to the end-of-pipe waste
because the waste will be collected by the regular LGU collection crew and its volume will be significantly
more than the other waste samples. Clear instructions must be given to the assigned collection crew to make
sure that they follow their normal route and collect all wastes along that route.

The team must also develop a plan for the disposal of the segregated wastes after they are weighed and
measured.These should be considered in the disposal plan:

• Biodegradable waste should be brought at the end of each day to an existing composting facility. If
no such facility exists, an area in the current disposal site can be prepared for the establishment of
compost piles or windrows.
• Recyclables may be brought to an existing Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) or a junk buyer can
be invited to buy the consolidated materials at the end of Day 3 or Day 4. See Section 3.C for the
additional analysis of recyclable materials.
• The residual and special wastes will be brought to the disposal site. See Section 3.C for the additional
analysis of special waste.
• For health care waste, the LGU should make arrangements for proper disposal of this waste type.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

G. Acquisition and preparation of tools, materials and other resources for waste
characterization

WACS will require a budget for the procurement of the needed tools, materials, supplies and fuel for the
collection vehicles. All those who take part in the waste characterization activity will also need food and
water.A WACS with 80 to 100 samples would cost P50,000 to P75,000.This cost estimate assumes that not all
materials and tools are purchased. LGUs can minimize costs by borrowing needed tools (e.g., weighing scales,
shovels, rake) or making use of available materials (e.g., used tarpaulin as sorting mats).

The items that should be procured or secured before the activity are listed below:

• Protective Gears
· Rubber gloves
· Masks
· Boots (for the sorters)
· Hats

• Sorting tools and materials

· Tongs
· Garden trowels/fork
· Spading fork and shovel
· Rakes
· Laminated sacks (to be used as sorting mats)

• Measuring tools
· Calibrated receptacles: 15-20 L and 60-100 L capacity plastic pails
· Weighing scales (10 kg capacity for waste from household and establishments; 50 kg capacity for
market and end-of-pipe waste)
· Garbage bags

• Others
· Tables and chairs
· First aid kit
· Drinking water and food

33

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Other pre-event activities that need to be done are:

• Weighing and calibration of receptacles that will be used to derive the weight and volume of the waste
samples.The procedures are as follows:

1. Weigh each empty receptacle

(e.g., plastic pails) and write
the empty weight clearly on
the side of the receptacle.

2. Calibrate the volume of 15 or

20-liter pail by marking the
equivalent height of two liters at
the inside part of the container.
This can be done by successively
pouring into the container two
liters of water and marking
the water level (height) each
time two liters of water are
added. Calibrating receptacles
in liters allows measurement
of small quantities of waste
from households and non-
households waste samples.

34

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

3. Do the same procedure for
60 and 100-liter capacity
containers but use higher
calibration, i.e., every 10 or 20
liters of water.

• Preparation of tags or labels for the garbage bags that will be

supplied to the cooperators. Six to eight bags (two per day, one
for biodegradable and the other for non-biodegradable) are usually
given to cooperators. Each bag should have the name of cooperator,
waste source category, sub-category and the type of waste the bag
should contain.

• Reproduction of the data entry forms (see Tables 2.9-2.12). There

should be one form for each cooperator per sample day.

• Allocation of protective gear, tools, weighing scales and other materials to the sub-teams. The actual
distribution can be done on Day 1, so these will not be misplaced.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Table 2.9. Sample WACS Field Data Entry Forms for Households and Non-Households (Excluding Public Market)

Sample No. Other Remarks/Notes/Observations:

Sample Name.
Waste Source
Category: Sub-
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Category:
WACS Date:
Recorder:

Waste Type/Item Day , kg/day

1 2 3 4 TOTAL
A. Total Solid Waste
B. Waste Component in kg
1. Biodegradable Waste
2. Recyclable Waste
3. Residual Waste
4. Special
Waste TOTAL

Waste Type/Item Day , liters/day

1 2 3 4 TOTAL
C. Waste Component in liters
1. Biodegradable Waste
2. Recyclable Waste
3. Residual Waste
4. Special
Waste TOTAL
33
 34
Table 2.10. Sample Public Market Data Entry Form
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Sample No. Other Remarks/Notes/Observations:

Sample Name.
Waste Source
Category: Sub-
Category:
WACS Date:
Recorder:

Waste Type/Item Day UUU, kg/day

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 TOTA
L
A. Total Solid Waste
B. Waste Component in
kg
1. Biodegradable Waste
2. Recyclable Waste
3. Residual Waste
4. Special Waste /THW
TOTAL

Waste Type/Item Day , liters/day

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 TOTA
L
C. Waste Component in
liters
1. Biodegradable Waste
2. Recyclable Waste
2. Residual Waste
4. Special Waste /THW
TOTAL
 Table 2.11. Sample End-of-Pipe Data Entry Form

EOP Waste Source: Other Remarks/Notes/Observations:

Collection schedule (day and
time): WACS Date:
Recorder:
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Waste Type/Item Day , kg/day

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 TOTA
L
A. Total Solid Waste
B. Waste Component in kg
1. Biodegradable Waste
2. Recyclable Waste
3. Residual Waste
4. Special Waste /THW
TOTAL

Waste Type/Item Day , liters/day

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 TOTA
L
C. Waste Component in
liters
1. Biodegradable Waste
2. Recyclable Waste
2. Residual Waste
4. Special Waste /THW
TOTAL
35
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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 2.12. WACS Field Data Entry Form for Recyclable Wastes

Recyclable Waste Unit of Measurement Indicate if market 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 TOTAL

Types Used (kg, pieces, cu exists for this
m or liters) waste type
(yes or no)
1. Plastics
2. Dry
paper/cartons
3. Metals
4. Glass/bottles
5. Rubber
6. Others
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
TOTAL
 Table 2.13.WACS Field Data Entry Form for Special Wastes
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Special Waste Unit of 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 TOTAL

Measurement Used
(kg, pieces, cu m or
liters)
1. Bulbs
2. Batteries
3. Chemical
containers
4. Healthcare waste
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
5. Others
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
TOTAL
3
 I. Orientation of Cooperators

The selected cooperators need to be informed about their participation in the study and be provided an
orientation on their responsibilities.

They can be notified formally through a

letter from the local chief executive (LCE).
The letter should state the objectives of the
exercise and of the SWM program, and their
roles and responsibilities as cooperators.

Some don’ts:
a. Do not include in the sample
the waste of other
households.
b. Do not do a general house
cleaning on the sample days.
c. Do not keep or sell any
recyclables generated during
the sample days. Include
these in the waste sample.
It is important that the cooperators are given an orientation on SWM, the WACS process and instructions a
few days before the activity. They should be provided with instruction sheets with details on how to segregate
the waste, where to put the segregated waste, when the waste sample will be collected and some “don’ts.”

Cooperators should be reminded of the procedures again when the labeled garbage bags are delivered to them
the day before the actual exercise starts.

J. Preparation for Data Processing

The processing of the data will make use of Excel spreadsheets. At the planning stage, it is important to identify
at least two LGU staff members who are familiar with the software or who can be trained on Excel. They
should be given an orientation on the data entry procedures so that actual data entry can immediately start as
soon as the waste characterization data are completed.

A computer will have to be assigned for the processing and storage of the WACS data.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Chapter 3
Actual Waste
Characterization

This stage covers the sequence of activities that are

undertaken to determine the weight, volume and
composition of the waste that are generated by different
sources. It starts with the collection of the waste from
the source and ends with the quality control of data entry
forms prior to data processing.

Those involved in this part of the study go through the

tedious task of sorting and measuring various waste
samples.This requires real teamwork. EcoGov experience
has shown that this particular activity strengthens the
bond among members of the LGU SWM TWG team and
the relationship between the LGU and its partners.

Two processes are described in this Manual. The first

is on the daily characterization of waste samples from
household and non-household sources, excluding public
markets. The second applies to public market and end-
of-pipe waste. The general procedure in both are the
same but since market waste and end-of-pipe waste have
larger volume, some adjustments are made in some of
the steps.

While LGUs are encouraged to do their own WACS,

there are some which may not find it affordable and
practical given their size, income class and resources. At
the end of this chapter is a discussion of an option such
LGUs may consider.

39

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 A. Characterizing Household and Non-Household Waste

1. Collect the garbage bags from pre-identified cooperators. Deliver the bags to the waste characterization
site and place in their proper location according to the agreed layout.

Waste collectors should

check if the bags
(biodegradable and non-
biodegradable) are complete
and properly labeled before
collecting them.

2. The sub-teams should check the waste samples assigned to

them and agree how to organize their work: simultaneous
waste characterization of all waste samples or sample by
sample waste characterization. The recorder should fill up
the sample ID information in the WACS Field Data Entry
Form for all samples received.

40

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 3. Weigh the whole waste sample (biodegradable and non-
biodegradable) from each cooperator and record the total
weight in the data entry form.

It is good practice to only have one weigher/scaler and one

recorder per sub-team during the entire study so the
readings and the data entry will be consistent.

4. Pour the contents of the bag containing biodegradable waste on the sorting mat and check if the
cooperator did the segregation correctly. Remove any non-biodegradable waste and put in the other
bag. Open next the non-biodegradable bag and sort the contents into three types: recyclable, residual
and special waste.

What is recyclable waste in one

LGU may be residual waste in
another LGU where there is no
market for such material.

Sort the waste on a sorting mat to

contain the waste materials in one
place. This practice also makes it
easier to clean the area after the
exercise. The sorting team should
wear protective gear and use tools
to prevent injuries and accidents in
the site.
41

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 5. Place the biodegradables in the calibrated container and weigh. Record both the weight (in kilograms)
and volume (in liters) in the data entry form. Make sure that the empty weight of the container is
deducted before the weight data is recorded. Do the same for the residual, recyclable and special
wastes.

If the volume of recyclables and special waste are found difficult to measure because they are of
different shapes and sizes (e.g., bottles, tin cans, plastic containers, busted light bulbs, etc.), this step can
be skipped. Place a note on this in the form.

6. Make sure that the sum of the weights of the four waste types is equal to the previously recorded total
weight of the sample (see Step 3). Otherwise, double check the data entries and addition.

7. Place the segregated biodegradable and residual wastes in the designated common receptacles or area
for disposal at the end of the day, according to the agreed waste disposal plan. The recyclables and
special waste can be temporarily stored in a secure location as these will be further studied at the end
of Day 3 or Day 4.

42

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 8. Do the same for the other samples.

9. When all the samples for the day are completed, the recorder must make sure that all the recorded
data are readable and that all the sums are correct. Submit the forms to the data processors. To
ensure tracking of forms submitted, the data processors should have a receiving logbook for recording
purposes.

At the end of the day, the sorting area should be cleared, cleaned and readied for the following day.

B. Characterizing Market and End-of-pipe Waste

1. The LGU collection crew will collect the waste from the public market at its usual collection time
and/or those from other sources following its normal route.The trucks will proceed to the designated
waste characterization area (for market and end-of-pipe waste) and unload the contents of the truck
in separate piles.

2. Segregate the waste according to four categories: biodegradable, recyclable, residual and special
waste.

3. Place the segregated biodegradable waste in calibrated containers and weigh. Because of the bigger
volume, bigger containers (60 to 100 liter capacity) and heavy duty weighing scales (50 kg capacity) are
used.The measurement and the recording of weight and volume data may have to be done part by part.
Note that the data entry forms in Tables 2.10 and 2.11 provide for 15 data entries. Make sure that the
empty weight of the container is deducted before the weight data is recorded.

4. Do the same for the residual, recyclable and special wastes. If found difficult to measure because
recyclables and special waste are of different shapes and sizes, the measurement of the volume of the
last two waste types can be skipped.

5. Add the recorded weights and volume of the four waste types.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 6. Place the sorted biodegradable waste in the designated common receptacle or back into the garbage
truck for transport to an existing composting facility or a compost pile in the disposal site. Store the
recyclables and special waste temporarily in a secure location as these will be further studied at the
end of the activity period.The residuals should be brought to the disposal site.The sorting area should
be cleared and readied for the following day.

7. The recorder must make sure that all the recorded data in the public market and end-of-pipe data
entry forms are readable and that all sums are correct.

Remember that the market end-of-pipe data is also the waste generation data of the public market.
The completed data entry form for the public market should be included among the non-household
generators.

A copy of the market waste data should be made and retained for the end-of-pipe analysis.

All completed forms should be submitted to the data processors.

C. Processing the Learning from Waste Characterization

1. On the last day of the waste characterization period, the TWG and waste characterization team should
gather all the sorted recyclables including those from the public market and the sample trucks. The
recyclables can be sorted by type of material and their total number, weight or volume determined
and recorded in a separate form. See Table 3.1. A junkshop operator may be invited to identify the
materials which have demand within or outside the LGU. This information will be useful in designing
strategies for the storage, trading or processing of these materials.

The recyclable materials can then be disposed according to the disposal plan.

44

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 2. A similar exercise can be done with the sorted special wastes.The TWG members and those involved
in waste characterization should identify and classify the various special waste, particularly the domestic
toxic and hazardous waste and health care waste, and discuss the dangers they pose to public health
and environment. Information on the types and weight/volume of the waste materials will be useful in
developing special waste disposal facilities (e.g., septic vault) and proper disposal arrangements.

3. The LGU SWM Coordinator/Officer or the waste characterization Team Leader may organize an
informal post-characterization feedback session among those who were involved in the activity. They
can then share their learning, views and observations on the waste characterization exercise. It is
highly recommended that the local chief executive and members of the ESWM Board of the LGU are
present.

Table 3.1.WACS Field Data Entry Form for Recyclable Wastes

Recyclable Waste Unit of Measurement Indicate if market TOTA

Types Used (kg, pieces, cu exists for this waste L
m or liters) type (yes or no)

1. Plastics
2. Dry paper/cartons
3. Metals
4. Glass/bottles
5. Rubber
6. Others
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
TOTAL

D. Notes on the Use by LGUs of Representative WACS Data

Considering the body of information that is emerging from all the WACS done by LGUs of various sizes,
location and classes, other LGUs may consider the use of WACS data that are already available in preparing
their initial SWM plan. For example, LGU “X” can adopt the per household waste generation data of LGU
“Y” and use this to estimate the total waste generation by households in LGU “X” (i.e., the “borrowed” per
household waste generation figure is multiplied with the total number of household population of LGU “X”).
It can do the same for other waste generators.The LGU can then use the results to prepare waste generation
projections for its 10-year SWM plan.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 This approach is deemed practical particularly for low-income, small to medium sized LGUs with no capability
to undertake a full WACS. It will allow them to complete their plans and thus comply with the SWM planning
requirement of RA 9003. However, it is critical that these LGUs examine closely the source LGUs (where they
“borrow” the data) to make sure that they have comparable socio-economic and demographic features. It is
highly recommended that the LGU choose a source LGU within the same region or island.

An LGU planning to use this approach has two options.

1. Full adoption of the WACS data of another LGU. This means adopting the following data of a similar
LGU:
• per household or capita waste generation per day (household waste)
• per unit waste generation per day (non-household waste)
• waste composition of household waste
• waste composition of non-household waste sources
• waste composition of end-of-pipe waste

2. Partial adoption of the WACS data of another LGU. This means that the LGU will only “borrow” the
waste generation data of selected waste sources and conduct WACS for other waste generators.
Most of the LGUs which chose this option did WACS for major non-household sources such as public
market, municipal hall, schools and hospitals.

In any of these two cases, the LGU will still need to undertake the inventory of waste sources (see Chapter
2A) as this will be needed in the next stage and the end-of-pipe waste characterization (Chapter 2C and
Chapter 3B) if collection services exist. The activities listed in Chapter 2 will remain relevant to these LGUs
but may need to be adjusted depending on the option the LGU takes.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Chapter 4
Data Processing
and Analysis
Upon completion of the field activity, the next task
is to transform raw waste characterization data into
information useful for SWM planning and decision-making.
The activities covered in this section go beyond data entry
and performing calculations to derive waste generation
rates. Also included are the analysis and interpretation
of results or processed data, and the preparation of
projection for the SWM plan period.

A. Data Processing

In this Manual,data processing is illustrated using MS Excel-

based linked templates which are designed to systematize
data entry and automatically generate estimates and data
summaries. Use of the templates significantly reduces
processing time and lessens the possibility of errors in
initial data entry and subsequent data transfers. At the
end of the exercise, the LGU is able to establish a well-
organized electronic database that can easily be stored
and retrieved. The templates/worksheets are found in
the accompanying CD.The user is advised to study the
structure of each worksheet, and the notes, definitions
and data entry instructions that are found at the bottom
part of the worksheets before starting actual data entry.
Understanding the formulas embedded in some cells will
be useful for LGUs which may want to develop their own
WACS database or data processing routines using other
software.

The general procedure is shown in the following

diagrams. The first set of worksheets (Worksheet 1 to
4) are for the recording and basic processing of the raw
sample data.These worksheets (shown in Figure 4.1) will
constitute the WACS database (sample data) of the LGU.
47

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 It can refer to this when it conducts the next
WACS for SWM plan updating. The data stored Data processors should keep a clean copy (without
in these worksheets may be used to generate data entries) of the worksheets for the next WACS
some summaries on the sample data. or as reference.

The sample data, with additional demographic data of the LGU, will also be used as inputs to the second set
of worksheets (Worksheets 5 to 9) where further processing will take place to derive information on waste
generation and disposal for the collection area and the whole LGU.The general procedure is shown in Figure
4.2. LGU staff assigned to process the sample data must take note of the additional data requirements that
need to be inputted into Worksheets 6 to 8 in order to complete the WACS summary tables.

Figure 4.1. Process in Establishing Initial WACS Database using Sample Data

Date Entry Worksheet Number Computation

Requirements and Title Results

• Sample ID • Total waste generation of

• Weight of segregated sample units, in kg/day
waste per sample, Worksheet 1:
per day Database_Weight • Composition of waste
generated by sample units,
(see Table 2.9) in kg/day

• Volume of • Average waste

segregated waste generation of sample units,
per sample, per day Worksheet 2: in liters/day (biodegradable
Database_Volume and residual)
(see Table 2.9)

• Total weight and volume of

recyclables and special
• Weight and volume of waste by type, in kg or liter
recyclables and or cu m, for 3 or 4 days
Worksheet 3:
special wastes Database_Recyclable
collected • Average weight and volume
s and
within sample of recyclables and special
Residual
days waste by type, in kg per day;
liter or cu m per day
(see Tables 2.12 & 2.13)

• Total end-of-pipe waste per

sample truck, in kg/day and
• Weight and volume of cu m/day
end- of-pipe waste Worksheet
per day 4: End-of- • Total end-of-pipe waste, in
Pipe kg/day
(see Table 2.11)
• Composition of end-of-pipe

48 waste (summary in Table 4.3)

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Figure 4.2. Process in Deriving Waste Generation in Collection Area and Whole LGU

Date Entry Worksheet Number Computation

Requirements and Title Results

Worksheet
1:
Database_Wei
ght

Worksheet 2:
Database_Volume

• Per capita generation of

household waste, in kg/day

Worksheet 5: • Per unit waste generation in kg/day

Per Unit_Waste
Generation • Composition of per unit waste
generation, in kg/day

• Total waste generation by all

sources covered by collection per
barangay, in kg/ day
• Barangays and number of
households covered by • Total waste generation per water
LGU waste collection Worksheet 6: source category within collection
Collection area, in kg/day
• Number of non-household Area_ Waste
sources covered by LGU Generation • Percent contribution of each
waste collection waste source category

• Composition of waste generated,

in kg/ day

• Barangays within • Population projection from census

collection area and year to base year of plan period,
outside collection area Worksheet by barangay
7:
• Annual population growth Populatio • Population projection for 10 year
rate from the last census to n_ plan period, by barangay
base year and 10 years Projection
hence, by barangay (to be used in Worksheet 9)

• Total waste generation by all

sources per barangay in kg/day

• Average household size • Total waste generation per waste

source category whole LGU,
• Number of non-household in kg/day
waste sources outside Worksheet
collection area 8: • Percent contribution of each
LGU_Was waste source category to LGU
• “Adjusted” waste generation te waste generation
of rural barangays Generatio
n • Composition of waste generated,
in kg/ day

(summary in Table 4.2)

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Three of the summary tables that can be generated at the end of process are shown below. Table 4.1 and Table
4.3 are generated from Worksheet 6 while Table 4.2 is derived from Worksheet 8.

Table 4.1. Summary of Total Waste Generation Within Collection Area

Waste Source TOTAL % Waste Composition

Waste Contribution Bio Recyclabl Residu Speci
Generati e al al
on Wast
(kg/day) e
kg/day % kg/day % kg/day % kg/day %
Households
Public Market
Food
Establishments
General Stores
Industries
Institutions
Recreation
Centers
Service Centers
Slaughterhouse
Health-
Related
Sources
TOTAL
% to TOTAL

Table 4.2. Summary of Total Waste Generation in Municipality/City

Waste Source TOTAL % Waste Composition

Waste Contribution Bio Recyclabl Residu Speci
Generati e al al
on Wast
(kg/day) e
kg/day % kg/day % kg/da % kg/day %
y
Households
Public Market
Food
Establishments
General Stores
Industries
Institutions
Recreation
Centers
Service Centers
Slaughterhouse
Health-
Related
50 Sources

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

TOTAL
% to TOTAL

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Table 4.3. Summary of End-of-Pipe Waste

Waste Type Public Other TOTAL % Composition

Market Sources (kg/day)
(kg/day) (kg/day)
Biodegradable
Recyclable
Residual
Special Waste
TOTAL
% to TOTAL

Note that data sets are produced: for the collection area (Table 4.1), and for the whole LGU (Table 4.2).
While LGU SWM programs are expected to cover all the barangays in the LGU, it is recognized here that
it is the current and/or proposed collection area, which usually consist of urban and urbanizing barangays,
that needs priority attention in SWM. It is within the collection area where the major waste generators are
concentrated thus waste generation in the collection area is expected to be higher than in more rural and
remote areas. Having these two data sets will help the LGU prioritize its activities and resources.

Other than these summary tables, it is likewise possible to derive from Worksheets 6 and 8 the total waste
generation per day per barangay. These data are also critical to SWM planning.

B. Analysis of the Information

Two ways are shown in this manual to demonstrate how the analysis of the generated information can be done.
The first is through the use of probe questions that the LGU team can use to further examine the meaning
and implications of the data summaries. The second is through examples of written analyses of actual waste
general and waste disposal data summaries. Both will serve as useful guides and references in the use of WACS
results in SWM planning.

The probe questions listed on the following page should provide ideas and leads on what options and strategies
an LGU may consider given a specific set of information. LGU teams may be able to add more or enhance the
questions as they can gain more familiarity with the data sets.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Information Generated Analysis Questions

o Total waste generation o Which sectors/waste sources/categories have the highest

per day per waste source waste generation? What is the composition of their waste? Is
with waste composition. there a discernable pattern in their waste generation profiles?
This estimates the o What is the % of biodegradable waste to total waste
contribution of each generated? What is the
waste % of recyclable waste to total waste generated? What is the
generator category to total total potential % for waste diversion (i.e., total of the two
waste generation and to percentages)?
each waste type. o Which of the generators have the highest potential for waste
Information is available diversion (i.e., those with high generation of biodegradable
for both the collection and recyclable waste)?
area and whole LGU. o Which of the sectors compose at least 50% of the
biodegradable waste?
Would these sectors have the means and the motivation
(sufficient space for composting at source; access to or
knowledge of composting technologies; access to junkshops
and other markets of recyclables; use of compost materials,
etc.) to divert their biodegradable and recyclable waste?
o Would the MLGU/BLGU have the capacity to collect the
various types of waste? Does it have facilities that will
support off-site waste diversion?
o How organized are the sectors with high waste
generation? Can these sectors be mobilized as a sector
to support SWM?
o Total waste collection o How much waste is collected and brought to the disposal
per day, with waste site on a daily/ weekly basis? How much of this is market
composition. waste?
o What is the composition of the waste from the public market
and from other sources that are brought to the disposal site?
What % is biodegradable?
What % is recyclable? What % is residual?
o How much is the waste that could be diverted (biodegradable
and recyclable)? How can these be diverted — at source or
off-site? If these are diverted off-site, are there facilities where
they can be processed/stored?
o How much is the residual that will reach the disposal site if
full diversion is achieved?
o How much special waste reach the disposal site?
o How much is the total waste disposed in relation to waste
generation within the collection area? What is the amount of
waste that leaks out of the waste stream?
o Total waste generation o What barangays have the highest waste generation?
per day by barangay, Where are these barangays located (coastal,
with waste inland/upland)?
composition. This is o Which barangays are the highest generators of
the biodegradable and recyclable waste? Which barangays
maximum amount of solid compose 50% or more of the biodegradable and recyclable
waste (all types) that may waste that are generated? Which of these barangays have
have to the capacity for the regular collection of these wastes?
be collected by the LGU Which would have the capability to pursue waste diversion
and barangays per day. activities? Are facilities available? Which barangays will
This also indicates the require MLGU support?
minimum volume of waste o Which barangays have limited or no access to markets of
(residual) that needs to be recyclables? How much recyclable waste do they produce?
collected by the LGU. o Which barangays have the highest generation of residual
waste? Does the LGU have the capacity to collect all the
residual waste? Does it have sufficient facilities for the 53

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 disposal of these residual waste?
o Is there scope for the clustering of barangays for waste
collection and waste diversion facilities (composting and
materials recovery)?

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Sample Analysis of Total Waste Generation Within Collection Area

Total Waste Generation, within Collection Area, LGU “X”, kg/day

Waste Source TOTAL % Waste Composition (kg and %)

Waste Contr
Generated i- Bio Recyclabl Residual Speci
(kg/day) butio e al
n Waste

Households 2,082 59% 1,408 65% 118 51% 544 51% 12 27%
Public Market 342 10% 147 7% 85 36% 110 10% - -
Food 421 12% 140 6% 1 1% 280 26% - -
Establishme
nts
General Stores 33 1% 17 1% 4 2% 12 1% - -
Industries 61 2% 53 2% 6 3% 2 0% - -
Institutions 365 10% 291 13% 6 2% 56 5% 12 28%
Recreati 52 2% 32 1% 1 0% 19 2% - -
on
Centers
Service 41 1% 15 1% 11 5% 15 1% 0 1%
Centers
Slaughterhouse 6 5 0% - 0% 1 0% - -
Health- 97 3% 61 3% 0 0% 17 2% 19 44%
Related
Sources
TOTAL 3,500 100% 2,169 100% 232 100% 1,056 100% 43 100%
% to TOTAL 100% 62% 7% 30% 1%

Analysis:

LGU “X” generates approximately 3,500 kg/day of solid waste within the collection area.This is composed of
62% biodegradable, 7% recyclable, 30% residual and 1% special waste. Given these, the LGU can potentially
achieve a maximum of 69% waste diversion through composting of biodegradable waste and through
recycling.

The top four major waste generators are households, food establishments, institutions and the public market.
Together they produce 92% and 90% of the biodegradable and recyclable waste, respectively, in the collection
area. Households will be the major challenge to the LGU because of their number and their dispersed
geographic spread. They contribute 65% to the total biodegradable waste and 51% to total recyclables. The
LGU will need a massive education campaign, a strong enforcement system and an incentive scheme to make
households comply with waste segregation and segregated waste collection requirements.

The LGU can enforce waste segregation and promote waste diversion in the public market since such is
under its management. The market can contribute significantly to materials recovery as it generates 36%
of recyclables. The LGU should engage food establishments and institutions as partners in SWM. Some can
be harnessed as point source models for waste segregation and waste diversion at source, and even waste
reduction particularly food establishments which produce the second highest amount of residual waste.

The data suggests that if full diversion (69%) is achieved, only 1,057 kg will be disposed daily in the disposal
site. This is significantly lower than current practice. This means less waste to collect and manage at the
disposal site; it also means longer life to the planned sanitary disposal facility.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Sample Analysis of End-of-Pipe Data

Summary of End-of-Pipe Waste , LGU “Y”

Waste Type Public Other TOTAL % Composition

Market Sources (kg/day)
(kg/day) (kg/day)
Bio 559 410 969 74%
Recyclable 27 181 208 16%
Residual 61 74 135 10%
Special Waste - 6 6 0%
TOTAL 647 671 1,318 100%
% to TOTAL 49% 51% 100%

Analysis:

A total of 1,318 kg/day of waste are brought to the LGU’s disposal facility. Almost half of this
originate from the public market while the other half are from households, establishments and
institutions.The bulk of the waste (74%) are biodegradable with the public market contributing
more biodegradable waste than all the other sources covered by collection services. Recyclables
compose 16% with other sources contributing more than the public market.

The data show that 90% of the waste brought to the disposal site can potentially be diverted. If
the LGU can divert all of the biodegradable waste from the public market (through education,
enforcement, incentives and investment in composting facilities), the total end-of-pipe will be
reduced by 42%. The LGU should be able to give this immediate attention as the public market
is under its control. This will allow the LGU to immediately achieve significant gains while it
works on the other sectors to adopt/improve their practice of waste segregation and diversion
at source.

Note that the residual waste is only 135 kg/day. A full diversion of 90% will mean a significant
reduction of the threat of water pollution from leachate and air pollution from methane gasses.
It also has positive implications on the investments of the LGU to establish a sanitary disposal
facility — lower investments, longer lifespan.

The data above highlight another concern that the LGU should look into: 3,955 kg are
generated daily in the collection area but only 1,318 kg (33%) reach the disposal site. This
means that 2,637 kg/day (67%) are not accounted for. These are possibly diverted at source
through backyard composting and direct selling to junkshops/itinerate buyers or recyclables or
burned (which is not allowed) or disposed in vacant lots, open areas, canals, creeks and rivers.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

C. Preparing 10-Year Projections

There are two projections that can be prepared from the initial (baseline) WACS data of the LGU.

• Projected waste generation under a “no intervention” scenario. This will show how much waste will
continue to be generated within the collection area and the whole LGU if there will be no waste
reduction and diversion interventions.

• Projected waste stream under a “with intervention” scenario. This considers the possible results of
education, enforcement and other interventions to promote waste segregation and diversion.

The process to generate the projections using linked spreadsheets is shown in Figure 4.3. To do these
projections, the LGU will need to provide the following additional data:

(a) Annual population growth rate by barangay (from time of

latest census up to base year and 10 years hence). This can Most LGUs which did their
be provided through Worksheet 7 (see Figure 4.2). projections using these methods
(b) 10-year projection of economic growth to estimate the assumed an annual economic
increase in the establishments within and outside the growth rate of 1%.
collection area.
(c) Any changes (expansion, reduction) in the collection area of the LGU over the 10-year period expressed
as % population in current or proposed collection barangays.
(d) Projected diversion rates of biodegradables and recyclables at source and through facilities that will be
established by the LGU.The LGU may test different target diversion rates before deciding what will be
doable and practical given current situation and resources.

The worksheets and the data entry instructions that will facilitate the preparation of these projections are also
found in the CD.

In Tables 4.4 and 4.5 are examples of 10-year waste projections that can be used in ISWM planning to show
different waste streams within the plan period.Table 4.4 is an example of a “no intervention” case. It shows
that with the assumed LGU population growth and economic development, waste generation within the
collection area will grow by 28% annually.To be able to collect all these waste and deal with its fast-increasing
waste burden, the LGU will require huge investments to upgrade its collection and disposal facilities.

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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 Figure 4.3. Process in Preparing Projections

Date Entry Worksheet Number Computation

Requirements and Title Results

Worksheet 5:
Unit_Waste Generation

Worksheet 6:
Collection
Area_Waste
Generation

Worksheet 7:
Popultion
Projection 8:
Worksheet
LGU_Waste
Generation
• Ten-Year projection of total household
• 10-year projection of % of Worksheet 9: waste generation within collection
households to be covered Projections_Househo area, in kg/day
by LGU collection, by lds in Collection Area
barangay
• Composition of waste generated, in
• Annual economic growth area • kg/day
Ten-Year projection of total household
Worksheet 10: waste generation within collection
• Expansion Projections_Non- area, in kg/day
barangays (for Households in
LGU collection) Collection Area • Composition of waste generated, in
kg/day
Worksheet 11: • Ten-Year projection of total waste
Projections_All generation within collection area, in
sources in kg/day
Collection
Area (without • Composition of waste generated, in
interventions) • kg/day
Ten-Year projection of total waste
Worksheet 12: generation of households in LGU, in
Projections_House kg/day
holds in LGU
• Composition of waste generated, in
• kg/day
Ten-Year projection of total waste
Worksheet 13: generation of non-households in LGU,
Projections_Non- in kg/day
Households
in LGU • Composition of waste generated, in
• kg/day
Ten-Year projection of total waste
Worksheet 14: generation in LGU, in kg/day
Projections_All Sources
in LGU (without • Composition of waste generated, in
interventions) kg/day
• Assumed % • Ten-Year projection of waste disposal
biodegradable and in LGU with diversion, in kg/day
recyclable waste
diversion at source

• % potential diversion from Worksheet 15:

off-site compositing Projections_With
Interventions
• % efficiency of off-site
compositing

• % diversion from MRF and

others (e.g. crew,
58 scavengers)

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 4.4. 10-Year Waste Generation Projections, within Collection Area,Without Intervention Scenario

Waste 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Composition
Biodegradable 2,726.74 4,967.47 6,455.20 7,445.31 8,312.91 8,899.56 9,643.93 10,094.86 10,263.74 10,435.63

Recyclable 541.32 1,001.85 1,261.37 1,435.36 1,588.36 1,693.12 1,825.10 1,906.70 1,939.87 1,973.65

Residual 824.22 1,448.87 1,880.95 2,168.57 2,420.62 2,591.12 2,807.40 2,938.50 2,987.72 3,037.81

Special Waste 164.07 279.42 389.12 461.30 524.20 565.90 619.42 650.78 660.85 671.09

Total 4,256.36 7,697.62 9,986.63 11,510.53 12,846.10 13,749.70 14,895.86 15,590.85 15,852.18 16,118.19
57
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Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

Table 4.5. 10-Year Waste Collection and Disposal Projections, within Collection Area,With Intervention Scenario

Year 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Projected Total Waste Generation 4,256 7,69 9,987 11,511 12,84 13,750 14,896 15,591 15,852 16,118
8 6
Projected Total Waste Diversion at 1,458 3,56 5,382 6,268 6,990 7,563 8,189 8,569 8,714 8,860
Source 5
Biodegradable Waste Diversion at 1,215 2,96 4,499 5,191 5,798 6,208 6,729 7,044 7,162 7,281
Source 4
% Bio waste diversion at source 45% 60% 70% 70% 70% 70% 70% 70% 70% 70%
Recyclable Waste Diversion at 244 601 883 1,077 1,191 1,354 1,460 1,525 1,552 1,579
Source
% Recyclable waste diversion at 45% 60% 70% 75% 75% 80% 80% 80% 80% 80%
source

Potential for Collection (after 2,798 4,133 4,605 5,243 5,857 6,187 6,70 7,02 7,13 7,258
diversion at source) 7 1 9
Biodegradable 1,512 2,004 1,956 2,254 2,515 2,691 2,91 3,05 3,10 3,154
5 1 2
Recyclable 298 401 378 359 397 339 365 381 388 395
Residual 824 1,449 1,881 2,169 2,421 2,591 2,80 2,93 2,98 3,038
7 9 8
Special Wastes 164 279 389 461 524 566 619 651 661 671

Potential Bio Waste for Collection 1,512 2,00 1,956 2,25 2,51 2,69 2,915 3,05 3,102 3,154
4 4 5 1 1
Less: Off-Site Composting (part of 756 1,20 1,369 1,80 2,01 2,55 2,769 2,89 2,947 2,996
MRF or separate facility) 2 3 2 7 8
% of collected biowaste diverted for 100% 100 100% 100 100 100 100% 100 100% 100%
off-site composting % % % % %
% Efficiency of Off-Site Composting 50% 60% 70% 80% 80% 95% 95% 95% 95% 95%

Potential Recyclable Waste for 298 401 378 359 397 339 365 381 388 395
Collection
Less: Recycling/materials recovery 146 220 235 251 278 271 292 305 310 316
(during transport, at MRF and at
disposal site)
Recovery at MRF 101 180 216 251 278 271 292 305 310 316
% Recovery Efficiency at 40 50% 60% 70% 70% 80% 80% 80% 80% 80%
MLGU/CLGU/BLGU MRF %
 Table 4.5. 10-Year Waste Collection and Disposal Projections, within Collection Area,With Intervention Scenario (Continued)

Year 2010 201 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
1
Scavenging 45 40 19 - - - - - - -
% Scavenging during transport by 15% 10% 5% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

crew and at disposal site by

scavengers
% Re-characterized as residual waste 45% 40% 35% 30% 30% 20% 20% 20% 20% 20%

Estimated Diversion of Bio and

Recyclable Waste
At source 1,458 3,565 5,38 6,26 6,99 7,563 8,18 8,569 8,714 8,860
2 8 0 9
Add:Off-site composting 756 1,202 1,36 1,80 2,01 2,557 2,76 2,898 2,947 2,996
9 3 2 9
Add: Recycling/materials recovery 146 220 235 251 278 271 292 305 310 316
Total diversion 2,360 4,988 6,98 8,32 9,27 10,390 11,25 11,773 11,971 12,173
6 2 9 0
% of total waste generated 55% 65% 70% 72% 72% 76% 76% 76% 76% 76%

Potential Special Waste for 164 279 389 461 524 566 619 651 661 671
Collection
% Healthcare waste 40% 40% 40% 40% 40% 40% 40% 40% 40% 40%
% Hazardous waste 60% 60% 60% 60% 60% 60% 60% 60% 60% 60%

Potential for Final Disposal 1,052 1,515 1,70 1,82 2,04 1,963 2,13 2,234 2,271 2,308
4 5 6 2
Total Residuals from Collection 824 1,449 1,88 2,16 2,42 2,591 2,80 2,939 2,988 3,038
1 9 1 7
Add: Residuals from MRF and 952 1,022 750 558 622 202 219 229 233 237
composting facility
Less: Residual waste that is for 888 1,235 1,31 1,36 1,52 1,397 1,51 1,584 1,610 1,637
processing or other uses (if any) 5 4 1 3
59

Add: Special waste (in appropriate 164 279 389 461 524 566 619 651 661 671
facilities)
 Table 4.5 provides a picture of what may happen when the following measures are pursued by the LGU:

(a) Education and enforcement resulting in the diversion at source of 45% to 70% of biodegradable waste
and 45% to 80% of recyclable waste.
(b) Operation of an off-site composting facility for the biodegradable waste that are collected from the
public market and of other sources
(c) Recovery of recyclables and storage at MRFs.

The combined effects of these is a potential diversion of 70% by Year 3 and 76% diversion at the end of Year
10, representing the biodegradable and recyclable components of the waste stream. These will significantly
decrease the cost of SWM operations, increase the economic life of disposal facilities, provide additional
income to LGUs and other sectors which are into waste processing and recycling.

In this specific example, there is also effort to process residual waste leading to the overall decrease in waste
that is brought to the SLF cell. There are likewise plans to set up separately proper facilities for the disposal
of health care and other hazardous waste.

The comparison of the two trends can be made more dramatic through the use of graphs as shown in Figure
4.4.

Figure 4.4.Waste Stream Scenarios within Collection Area (kg/day), 10 years.

Total solid waste for

collection and
disposal (with
intervention)

The vertical distance between the two lines represent the potential diversion that can be achieved through the
SWM program.This more visual analysis will be more useful for presentation to LGU decision maker.

60

Waste Analysis and Characterization Study A Manual

 For information, please contact:

The Philippine Environmental

Governance Project (EcoGov)
Unit 2401, Prestige Tower
F. Ortigas Jr. Road, (formerly Emerald
Avenue) Ortigas Center, Pasig City
1605
Philippines
Telephone: (632) 635-0747 • Fax: (632)
637-8779
Website: www.ecogov.org

Foreign-Assisted and Special Projects

Office Department of Environment and
Natural Resources Visayas Avenue,
Diliman
Quezon City
1104
Philippines
Telephone: +63 2 928-0028; 928-2226
Website: www.faspo.denr.gov.ph