Study of solid waste generation and techno-economic analysis of pyrolysis of HDPE waste plastics in an academic institution in Nepal

The Institute of Engineering (IOE), Pulchowk Campus in Lalitpur, Nepal, faces serious solid waste mismanagement issues that threaten the environment and public health. In a comprehensive investigation from June 5 to 12 June 2022, IOE students sorted waste from 58 campus locations. They discovered that the average weights of plastic, paper, and organic waste were 5.84 kg, 8.85 kg, and 3.76 kg, respectively. The study identified current waste management risks and provided recycling strategies, emphasising the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). Aspen Plus simulation indicated that 0.72 kg/day of segregated HDPE waste produced 0.65 kg/day of liquid fuel. The construction of a pyrolysis plant is estimated to cost NPR 27,11,528.794, with an annual operational expense of NPR 1,39,510. These findings highlight the necessity of proactive environmental management and offer suggestions for sustainable waste management in urban and educational settings.