Recognition of industrial wastes production sources and recycling procedures in Caspian region

Subject Areas : environmental management

Mohammad Ali Abduli ¹ , Tooraj Nasrabadi ² , Ehsn Taheri ³ , Gholamali Hoshyaripour ⁴

1 - Professor, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran
2 - PhD Student, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran
3 - M.Sc., Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran
4 - M.Sc. Student, Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran

Received: 2007-11-28 Accepted : 2008-02-18 Published : 2009-09-23

Keywords: Caspian region, industrial solid waste, recycling,

Abstract :

In the Caspian region (Mazandaran and Guilan Provinces), there are 176 industrial units, each with a work force of more than 10 persons. One hundred and fifteen of these units are located in Guilan and the others in Mazandaran. The basic industries located in this region are textile, cellulose and metal industries. Unlike the solid wastes produced in cities, industrial wastes are generated separately, in large quantities and in a limited number of locations. As a result, recycling such wastes could be carried out more easily and with a higher efficiency. Major industrial waste generators of the region are located around the cities of Rasht, Lahijan, Sari, Bandar Anzali, Babol, Amol and Behshahr. At present, part of the wastes is recycled in some industries; bone powder, yeast powder, low quality paper and cardboard are produced from the wastes of slaughter houses, alcohol production factories, and food and cellulose industries, respectively. In this study, the present status of the generating and recycling industrial wastes in the region is evaluated, and practical suggestions as well as appropriate alternatives are offered. The suggestions mostly emphasize modern recycling technologies. In Caspian region, 32.7 tons of industrial wastes are produced daily. Food industry, textile industry, wooden products industry, paper and cardboard, equipment and machinery are the main waste generators in this region. Regarding the types of wastes and the capacity of the Caspian region, the production of OROPON powder, mushrooms, fruit essence and acids, and pure cellulose (α cellulose) is recommended.