TP Treatment, recycling and waste management 2025/2026
TP n°1: WASTE SORT
Introduction:
A waste sort is a process in which waste is collected and sorted thoroughly to assess a
facility’s waste.
Waste sorts can provide detailed information such as waste generation, waste
composition, and capture rates of recyclables and contamination levels, which may prove
useful to improving waste management practices. However, when deciding whether to
conduct a waste sort, the beneficial results should be weighed against the time and effort
required to properly conduct the waste sort.
Objective:
The importance of waste sorting extends beyond mere disposal; it is a fundamental
component of sustainable living that encourages responsible consumption and waste
reduction. A waste sort is an essential tool for maximizing the effectiveness of waste
management programs and improving operational efficiency. It can expose wasteful practices,
reveal opportunities for cost-saving improvements, or confirm the success of diversion
programs. The data collected can pinpoint specific areas where actions can be taken.
Environmental Protection: Proper sorting helps reduce landfill waste, conserves natural
resources, and minimizes pollution. It allows for the recycling and recovery of materials,
reducing the need for new raw materials.
Resource Conservation: Sorting waste enables the recovery of valuable materials like metals,
plastics, and paper. This reduces the demand for new resources and helps preserve
ecosystems.
Energy Savings: Recycling often uses less energy compared to producing new products from
raw materials. For example, recycling aluminum saves up to 95% of the energy needed to
create new aluminum from bauxite.
Economic Benefits: Effective waste sorting can lead to cost savings for municipalities and
businesses by reducing disposal fees and generating revenue from recycled materials. It can
also create jobs in the recycling and waste management sectors.
Public Health: Proper waste sorting can reduce hazardous materials in landfills, which can
leach into the soil and water. It also minimizes the risk of pests and diseases associated with
waste accumulation.
Community Awareness: Engaging in waste sorting encourages a culture of sustainability and
responsibility within communities. It raises awareness about consumption habits and
promotes environmentally friendly practices.
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TP Treatment, recycling and waste management 2025/2026
Compliance with Regulations: Many regions have laws and regulations regarding waste
management. Sorting waste helps individuals and businesses comply with these legal
requirements.
Waste classification
Waste classification refers to the categorization of different types of waste based on
their origin, treatment methods, and hazardousness. It is a system used to assess and classify
waste streams for effective waste management practices. Here are the main categories of
waste (The details of each classification are in the attached file)
According to the encyclopedia "Les Techniques de l'Ingénieur," waste can be
classified into six groups based on their origins (FCQ 1999)
In Europe, waste classification follows the framework established by the EU Waste
Framework Directive (2008/98/EC). Waste is categorized into several main categories and
types, each with specific definitions and regulations.
In Algeria, waste classification is governed by the country’s environmental
regulations and the Law on Waste Management (Law No. 01-19 of 12 December 2001). The
classification framework includes three categories of waste.
Practical Part:
Materials:
Waste sorts are relatively easy tasks to perform, but they require some careful
planning.
1- Wastes: a variety of common waste.
2- Sorting bins: bins or containers to be labeled for each category of waste. Ensure they
are easily identifiable.
3- Recycling containers: appropriate containers for collecting sorted waste, such as
recycling bins or recyclable bags.
4- scale.
5- Personal protective equipment (PPE): protective gloves and safety glasses to ensure
student safety when handling waste.
6- Information documents on recycling: educational materials, posters, or brochures
about recycling (see the attached list).
Method:
1- Choose a classification to follow for sorting the waste;
2- Label your sorting bin according to the chosen classification;
3- Sort the waste according to the chosen classification;
4- Calculate the mass percentage of each class of waste.
PS: To calculate the mass percentage of waste, you can use the following formula:
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TP Treatment, recycling and waste management 2025/2026
Results and Discussion:
1- Justify the choice of the selected classification;
2- Outline and the procedure for classification
3- Propose and discuss an initial waste management plan based on the results obtained,
identifying the mistakes, shortcomings, challenges, and prospects of the classification?
