ENVR07028 2013 WASTE MANAGEMENT
This module introduces waste management at both national, regional and organisational level. It covers waste classification and the concept of the waste management hierarchy and its application in various sectoral areas. Waste prevention/minimisation, re-use, recovery and diposal options and technologies are addressed and their environmental impacts assessed. The regulatory framework is also presented.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
Describe the various waste classification systems in common use.
Explain the waste management hierarchy and describe its importance in achieving maximum resource efficiencies and promoting waste management options that do not adversely affect the environment
Describe and evaluate the various mechanisms that are used to reduce the quantity and environmental impact of specified waste streams
Discuss the main environmental and socio-economic impacts of current and proposed future national waste management strategies.
Critically evaluate a waste facility site (and unit processes within the site) or a waste licence/permit
Describe the operational and compliance monitoring requirements necessary to safeguard the environment in a selected large scale waste facilities.
Module Assessment Strategies
During the delivery of this module, self-learning is encouraged among students through the use of comprehensive on-line resources including voice-supported presentations, on-line notes, and formative assessments. Regular summative tests are used to encourage engagement with the module, monitor progress and provide feedback. This approach enables the student to take timely corrective action, in the event of failure to achieve the required standard, before the results significantly impact on the final grade.
Module Dependencies
Indicative Syllabus
Waste classification
Major waste generating sectors
Characteristics and environmental impacts associated with waste streams generated from specified sectors
Elements of an effective waste management strategy
Roles and statutory responsibilities of various stakeholders in waste management issues (including local authorites, EPA, public sector, private sector, producers and holders of waste and waste hauliers)
Application of the waste management hierarchy/BAT
Introduction to waste prevention techniques (e.g. DfE, quality systems, green procurement, LCA
Introduction to waste management techniques including MBT, composting, anerobic digestion, incineration and landfill
Environmental monitoring associated with specified large scale waste management facilities
Producer responsibility initiatives and their role in reducing waste volumes and the environmental impacts associated with specified waste streams
Waste licence/permit applications
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Written Report (x 2 sittings @ 10% each) | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 20 % | OnGoing | 1,3,6 |
2 | Written Report (Evaluation of waste site/waste licence) | Continuous Assessment | UNKNOWN | 30 % | Week 7 | 2,3,5,6 |
End of Semester / Year Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Final Exam | Final Exam | UNKNOWN | 50 % | End of Term | 1,2,3,4,6 |
Full Time Mode Workload
Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lecture | Tiered Classroom | In-class lectures | 3 | Weekly | 3.00 |
Independent Learning | UNKNOWN | Self study, preparation of reports | 4 | Weekly | 4.00 |
Module Resources
Cheremisinoff, Nicholas P. (2003) Handbook of solid waste management and waste minimization technologies Butterworth-Heinemann Amsterdam ; Boston
Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. 2005. Action at Work: A Guide for Large Organisations to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government , (2006) Best Practice Guidelines on the Preparation of Waste Management Plans for Construction and Demolition Projects
EPA, 2012 (or most recent), National Waste Database Report.
EPA, 2009, National Waste Prevention Programme (NWPP) Outline Work Plan 2009-2012
EPA, 2005, The Nature and Extent of Unauthorised Waste Activity in Ireland.
Limerick Clare Kerry Regional Waste Management Office (no date) Waste Prevention Guide for Industry & Business
Woodard & Curran, 2011, Industrial Waste Treatment Handbook, Butterworth-Heinemann, Oxford. (e-book)
Williams, Paul T. (2005) Waste treatment and disposal (2nd ed). Wiley Chichester, West Sussex ; Hoboken, NJ, USA
Note: Best Practice Guidelines in the areas of resource efficiency and waste management are under continual review. The student will be directed towards guidance notes from the following Agencies; Environmental Protection Agency, UK Environment Agency, EU IPPC Bureau , Cre and also towards case studies from the National Waste Prevention Programme, Clean Technology Centre and the CGPP and EPPS.
Access to computer suite for two sets of MCQs
None