Accelerated Composting for Sustainable Food Waste Management in Remote Mining Operations: A Comprehensive Assessment

Abstract

The management of organic waste in mining operations located in remote regions poses considerable logistical challenges, primarily because of the long distance to available landfill sites and the associated high costs. In addition, substantial environmental concerns arise from greenhouse gas emissions generated during waste processing and transportation. This study evaluated the implementation of an accelerated and automated composting process for the on-site treatment of organic waste at a mining operation. Operational performance indicators were established and evaluated over a 14-month period, including waste-to-compost conversion ratios, environmental indicators comparing emissions from conventional waste management with on-site treatment, and an economic profitability analysis. The quality of the produced compost was also assessed. The results showed an average conversion rate of 32 ± 7%, resulting in a 38% reduction in emissions compared with landfill disposal, equivalent to 0.17 kg CO2e per kg of food waste treated. From an economic perspective, the process generated savings equivalent to USD 41.52 per Mg of food waste. Overall, the quality of the compost produced was adequate and met most regulatory and hygiene requirements. The comprehensive evaluation demonstrated that the improvements achieved by this management model offer an opportunity for treating organic waste in mining contexts and in communities with limited access, as well as under operational or environmental conditions that restrict conventional composting alternatives.