Sustainable Practices in C&D Waste: Plastic and Steel ResourceManagement

This study explores the feasibility of establishing dedicated plastic and steel recycling plants within Tehran, Iran's C&D waste management system, promoting a circular economy approach. OSeMOSYS modeling identified ۱۰۰% Scrap Steel Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology for steel and mechanical recycling and plastic as the optimal options. The model also emphasized the significance of a ۷۱-megawatt steam power plant for integrated waste management. A RETScreen economic analysis was conducted to assess the financial viability of both plants, revealing promising results. The plastic recycling plant exhibited a pre-tax Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of ۱۳.۳% and a payback period of ۵.۶ years, indicating favorable returns on investment and a moderate timeframe for recouping costs. The steel recycling plant presented an even more attractive case, with a pre-tax IRR of ۳۲.۲% and an exceptionally short payback period of ۳.۳ years. Overall, the combined findings from modeling and economic analysis strongly support the feasibility of establishing plastic and steel recycling plants. These plants would promote the core principles of a circular economy by reducing reliance on virgin materials, closing the loop on resource use, and diverting C&D waste from landfills. This would lead to a more sustainable waste management system in Tehran.