Custom Search
|
|
|
||
 but they will advise on the degree of segregation necessary for the most cost-
effective operation. Quality control of source separation techniques is
essential. For example, when recycling mixed paper, it is important that
employees do not throw paper clips, carbons, and other trash into collection
boxes.
4.3.7.8 Table 4-3-7B shows how detailed the price structure breakdown
can be for paperstock materials. The table also illustrates that prices will
vary depending on markets. The end consumers for many recycled goods on the
West Coast are the Pacific Rim countries. This market is just developing now,
but future growth looks good.
4.3.7.9 Packaging is also important; for example, because of bulk
storage and transportation problems, cardboard cannot be economically recycled
unless it is baled. Some materials also need to be packaged according to
certain specifications.
4.3.7.10 Remember, if the item needs to be chemically or physically
processed before reuse, then it is properly defined as a recyclable item. As
examples, for expired shelf-life items, recontainerization is physical process-
ing; chemical processing could mean increasing the concentration of a chemical
that has become insufficient to do the job [calcium hypochlorite with a chlorine
level that has dropped from 17% (MILSPEC levels) to 10% could be reblended with
chlorine to bring up the chlorine content].
4.3.7.11 Plastics recycling is not yet widely practiced at military
installations. Concern over pollution caused by plastics during incineration
and environmental concerns about longevity in landfills may force increased
activity in that area.
4.3.7.12 In the commercial sector plastics recycling is beginning to
increase (Basta and MacKerron 1988; Crawford 1988). Potential end uses include
decorative beams, railroad ties, and other shapes for landscaping. Shredding
plastics and using them as fiberfill is another end use.
4.3.7.13 Preparing Criteria and Procedures. General criteria and
procedures for establishing a recycling program are summarized below but must be
adapted to fit particular installations.
4.3.7.14 Program Criteria. A qualifying recycling program is defined
as an organized operation that requires concerted efforts to divert or recover
scrap or waste from waste streams, as well as efforts to identify, segregate,
and maintain or enhance the marketability of the materials.
4.3.7.15 A prerequisite for setting up an installation program is to
ascertain that the program is both feasible and cost effective by identifying
potentially recyclable materials, estimating generation rates, determining if
adequate markets exist, and conducting an economic analysis for each material.
(Details of the economic analysis are given later in this section.)
4.3.7.16 An installation program must be formally established with
provisions for program management, reimbursement for program expenses,
administration, accounting, and proper control and review of projects to be
funded.
4-75
|
 
|
|
|
||
