An investigation into solid waste accounting in the new Student Union Building at the University of British Columbia

Waste accounting is a formal and structured process used to quantify the amount and type of wastes generated by a facility. In order to meet the waste reduction target and further the AMS Lighter Footprint Strategy, a waste accounting method is needed to measure the amount of solid waste generated in the New Student Union Building (SUB) on a weekly basis. By investigating the methodologies used by large institutions, a hybrid solution is then recommended. This report will discuss the three major sources that are used as the foundation for the solution proposed. The recommended waste accounting method suggests formation of a waste sorting team to perform waste classification and also an implementation of covered automated weighing containers to measure the weight of sorted wastes and send the collected data to the Alma Mater Society (AMS) through a wireless network. Furthermore, the report will focus in the triple bottom line assessment for the proposed solution to evaluate the feasibility of applying this waste accounting method in the New SUB. By analyzing its economical, environmental, and social factors, the method recommended is suitable for the New SUB as it has low maintenance cost, low ecological footprint, and minimal sociological impact on a long term basis. Disclaimer: “UBC SEEDS provides students with the opportunity to share the findings of their studies, as well as their opinions, conclusions and recommendations with the UBC community. The reader should bear in mind that this is a student project/report and is not an official document of UBC. Furthermore readers should bear in mind that these reports may not reflect the current status of activities at UBC. We urge you to contact the research persons mentioned in a report or the SEEDS Coordinator about the current status of the subject matter of a project/report.”Applied Science, Faculty ofUnreviewedUndergraduat