SWM Greenhouse Gas Calculator
High Potential for Reduction of GHG Emissions
The IPCC's Fourth Assessment Report puts the contribution of the
solid waste and wastewater management sector to global greenhouse
gas emissions at 2.7%, which might at first sight appear to be
comparatively low. According to the IPCC accounting rules this
figure does not take into account the impacts of reducing, reusing
or recycling of waste as well as waste-to-energy strategies. These
effects are either attributed to other GHG source categories in
order to avoid double counting or they are not accounted for at
all. The contribution of these elements of solid waste management
to GHG reduction can only be calculated indirectly. SWM experts
estimate that globally GHG emissions could be reduced by up to 10%
at comparably low costs if sustainable waste management systems
where put in place in particular in developing and emerging
countries. Additionally they would significantly contribute to
improve public health conditions and environmental protection in
their countries.
The objective of the "Tool for Calculating GHG Emissions in Solid
Waste Management" (SWM-GHG Calculator), which was developed by
IFEU-Institute, sponsored by KfW
Entwicklungsbank in cooperation with GTZ and financed by
funds of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and
Development (BMZ) is to aid in understanding the effects of proper
waste management on GHG emissions. The SWM-GHG Calculator allows
quantification and comparison of GHG emissions for different waste
management strategies at an early stage in the decision making
process. Default values allow approximations even if basic data are
not (yet) available. Additionally, the SWM-GHG Calculator provides
guidance information on the costs associated with different waste
management strategies.
The SWM GHG Calculator and a corresponding manual providing
additional basic data are written in English language and can be
downloaded free of charge - see links below.
Further Information
Manual (PDF, 1,35 MB, non-accessible)
Calculator and example (Excel Tool)
Status: January 2010
Features
Further information
Tipp
The SWM GHG Calculator including an example can be ordered free of charge from KfW Entwicklungsbank.
