4 Waste Management Trends To Look Out For In 2022

Waste management, recycling equipment, and disposal processes are constantly changing, and new innovations are always on the horizon. In 2022, there is set to be more focus than ever before on recycling and waste disposal, as the whole world scrambles to reduce our carbon footprint and impact on the planet. No matter the size or sector of your business, it pays to stay up to date with the latest trends on waste management. Whether you are a packager, manufacturer, retail store, hospitality venue, or something else entirely, you’ll want to know about these 4 waste management trends upcoming in 2022.

Innovative Technology For New Recycling Machines

Technology is improving every aspect of our lives at a very fast rate, and waste management is no exception. New recycling machines are set to be fitted with incredible new features which will track the materials being recycled and help with material separation. Robots could be used on picking stations to sort waste, compactors could feature GPS technology, and recycling bins could be tracking habits of businesses and households.

These advances in technology can help companies to reach their sustainability goals, and we expect to see these start coming to market in 2022. In the early days, we anticipate that adoption of these high-tech features will be kept to huge corporations and waste management firms, but with time, used recycling machinery with these capabilities will be available to all. 

Waste To Energy (WTE) Is On The Rise

Researchers are continuing to study how waste can be converted into energy. WTE initiatives in 2022 will include anaerobic digesters, on-demand services, and circular economy measures. It isn’t too far in the future that we will see recycling equipment which can convert waste into energy on site. Many countries across the globe are putting a lot of pressure on WTE projects, so it is an industry that will only continue to grow. 

Recyclable Packaging Will Continue

Packaging has been focused on recycled products for the last few years, but this is set to continue well into 2022. Manufacturers of packaging are not done when it comes to reducing their impact on the planet, and we can expect even further changes in the sustainable packaging market. Lightweight boxes, smaller cardboard packaging and flexible plastic containers are all things which will be more abundant in 2022. 

Increased Focus On Composting

Green waste is often overlooked but it plays a big role in waste management. All forms of biowaste can be recycled using the right recycling machines, but many businesses only focus on the obvious materials such as cardboard and plastic. There are options out there to turn green waste into biofuels using cellulose-to-sugar (CTS) processes. Other composting initiatives are likely to be the focus for waste management providers in 2022, and composting infrastructures are set to expand. 

For help and guidance on the right recycling equipment to get your business ready for 2022, contact our specialists at WRT today.