Optimizing household biodegradable waste management within European Islands

Waste management on islands is a special case and cannot be treated with a 'one size fits all' approach. The lack of economies of scale, the generally small land area, high population density, limited resources and population fluctuations (mainly due to tourism) all contribute to make this case a special one. Although the relatively small nature and geographical location of islands makes them fragile, they still have to comply with the stringent legislative requirements on waste. Moreover, the inhabitants of these islands should be entitled to sustainable waste management that contributes to preserve the pristine nature of these unique pieces of land. This work is focused on the islands of Gotland and Malta with the intention to be extended to other islands. In order to implement a holistic approach, sectors influenced by waste management, such as agriculture, tourism and energy were considered. This work is conducted using a life cycle assessment methodology applied to the islands' necessities. Furthermore, the work is accompanied by an economic analysis and technical/practical analysis of the proposed solutions. The legislative and social aspects were also included in the analysis. This research outlines an analytic methodology for island waste management analysis whilst considering the background and foreground characteristics highly relative to island waste management. This research suggests that households should sort their waste into recyclables/packaging waste, biodegradable waste and combustible/residual waste. Local treatment of waste shall be favoured however the research acknowledges that some islands, due to their small nature have to rely on export.