Innovation first, waste last

he waste industry of today faces

Tgreater challenges than ever before. Rapidly increasing waste generation, together with complex waste streams – like brine, plastics and contaminants of emerging concern – contributes to a broader challenge that affects human health and the environment.

But it’s not all doom and gloom.

“The future-focused National Environmental Management: Waste Act (No. 59 of 2008) provides direction and is excluding a growing number of streams from landfill. This adds impetus to the global movement to find solutions that make waste more sustainable,” says Micole Martens, associate director: Laboratory, Talbot.

Proud to re-join the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa as a Patron Member, Talbot has spent more than three decades offering lab testing to the waste industry.

Its SANAS-accredited laboratory provides clients with guidance, testing and reporting for disposal requirements. This includes assessment, classification and the compilation of safety data sheets for literally hundreds of waste streams using an automated system that incorporates legislative details at the touch of a button.

“More than this, Talbot’s speciality is the innovative treatment of waste streams, often turning what was once regarded as a liability into a resource while, at the same time, recovering water, minimising disposal costs and diverting waste from landfill to promote the circular economy,” says Martens.

One example of this is Talbot’s use of vibratory sheer enhanced process (VSEP) technology, which treats problematic wastewater streams that conventional technologies simply cannot. This results in the recovery of resources – from precious group metals to molasses – and clean water, both of which can be returned to the production cycle. “Supplied by US company New Logic Research Inc, VSEP uses a patented membrane vibration system that thrives in robust water conditions, making this treatment option ideal for waste streams that are just too dirty for conventional membrane systems,” she says.

Over the last few years, more waste streams have been prohibited from landfill, such as liquid wastes (>40% moisture) and, more recently, brine.

“Evaporation and conventional treatment methods are an option but tend to be energy and opex intensive. We explore more sustainable solutions that have been proven to reduce the volume of waste that needs to be evaporated, reduce costs and address product life extension and water recovery,” adds Martens.

With rapid urbanisation, water scarcity and population growth, effective solid waste management is critical to a sustainable future. By offering robust, cost-effective solutions, Talbot helps South Africa get one step closer to a climate-neutral waste sector.