Biowaste

One of the initiatives of the LIFE Waste to Resources IP project, implemented by the Waste Management Association of Latvia (WMAL), is the separate collection and further management of kitchen biowaste for biogas production. This initiative differs from previously implemented efforts (e.g., by the company LTD "Clean R") by involving residents of large apartment buildings, who receive small bins for sorting specific types of kitchen waste at home, such as vegetable, herb, and fruit scraps; food leftovers, excluding bones; tea and coffee grounds; houseplants, and cut flowers.

The sorted waste is then placed in a designated bio-waste container located in the waste storage area near the building. The container is regularly emptied, and after processing, the kitchen waste is transported to a biogas production facility.

To encourage the oxidation of biological waste, which significantly reduces odors, the container is equipped with air vents on both the sides and the lid. It is planned that bio-waste collection containers will be placed in enclosed waste storage areas, reducing the number of unsorted waste bins.

To successfully implement the initiative, gaining the understanding and support of residents is a crucial condition. The first meeting with members of the building's management board, established by the residents, and the property managers – Latvijas Namu Apsaimniekotājs – was held online on June 28, providing a detailed explanation of the planned initiative and its implementation requirements.

WMAL specialists provided comprehensive answers to all questions regarding the technical aspects of the initiative and the benefits for apartment building residents. The initial online meeting showed that property managers are interested in the new initiative, which significantly reduces residents' waste management costs and makes waste collection more pleasant due to the near elimination of odors. Furthermore, as the volume of kitchen waste in unsorted bins decreases, these bins become more attractive.

The next meeting on August 15 took place in person, under the shade of trees in the building's courtyard. Although only six out of 120 apartments were represented, the turnout was influenced by high temperatures on a weekday evening. However, the residents who attended were interested in the initiative and ready to take immediate action. WMAL, together with Latvijas Namu Apsaimniekotājs, now has several urgent tasks to complete—purchasing bio-waste containers and signing a contract with the kitchen waste management provider. We hope for successful continued cooperation, keeping all residents informed!

Board member of the Latvian Waste Management Association, R. Bendere, at the resident engagement meeting on August 15, 2022, as part of the LIFE20 IPE/LV/000014 project. Photo: D. Āriņa