The pyramid of talent in domestic waste recycling

Abstract

This study pursued the objective of developing a general strategy for domestic waste recycling with realistic targets in an emerging economy context. An experimental case study in a condominium community over 14 years provided data on raw waste composition and on progressive improvements of sorted waste composition resulting from administrative talent and effort. The study showed that source separation drives reverse logistics. A series of successive composition reports for domestic waste testified to the evolution of residents’ response to coaching. The pyramid of talent illustrated and quantified progress in source separation. The bottom plane represented the ‘no-talent no-effort’ situation where domestic waste is collected in bulk and tipped. An intermediate stage of 67% successful source separation and recycling was attained within 10 years and the apex of zero tipping within 14 years. This represented the ultimate stage of endeavour where pioneering residents made full use of the infrastructure provided, separated all their waste and left nothing to be tipped. This was a pioneering experience, but may serve as an example for city-wide applications.