Skip to main content

A Guide to understanding several versions of waste and the scope of recycling the waste in Madagascar

Waste is divided into various types primarily solid waste and wet waste. Once the goal of categorizing waste is understood, it becomes easier to segregate the waste. We create different categories of waste so that they can be disposed of separately and later on accumulated for recycling. It is very important to divide waste in Madagascar and categorize it to recycle different waste and create reusable materials. At Madabin, we utilize the accumulated waste to its maximum potential by manufacturing carbon-negative products made with 100% recycled materials. In this manner, instead of being dumped in a landfill and polluting the earth, the waste is utilized to make usable goods that benefit the businesses and local communities of Madagascar. This form of recycling waste in Madagascar will help drive sustainable business through the management of Madagascar’s industrial waste.

The Different Types of Waste

Garbage disposal and accumulation facilities ideally divide waste in Madagascar into 2 segments namely wet waste and dry waste. Municipal organizations maintain this system to simplify the segregation process for the general public. While wet waste mainly comprises biodegradable components making it easily recyclable by the method of composting; the primary complication arises in the management of dry waste. MadaBin is an industrial sustainability project in Madagascar that helps communities dispose of waste responsibly and unlocks opportunities for recycling waste.
Dry waste is designated as recyclable materials based on the raw material the garbage is majorly comprised of such as

Plastic Waste

Origin – generated from plastic packaging or products such as boxes, bottles, labels, and caps. Also originates from the disposal of defective goods in the quality check process post-manufacturing.
Scope of Recycling – Plastic waste can undergo 100% recycling into granules that can be used for manufacturing purposes again as they retain the original raw material like features and chemical integrity.

Textile/Fabric Waste

Origin – generated from manufacturing and post-consumer disposal of fabric goods such as apparel and household fabrics like doormats, bed sheets, etc. Also originates from the disposal of defective goods and excess cut fabric pieces utilized in the production process.
Scope of Recycling – Fabric waste can undergo 100% recycling and the resulting raw material can be used for manufacturing purposes again as they retain the original raw material like features and chemical integrity.

Paper Waste

Origin – generated from the disposal of paper goods such as books, newspapers, posters, carton boxes, etc.
Scope of Recycling – Paper waste can undergo 100% recycling to procure paper pulp which is the raw material used in manufacturing paper products.

Electronic Waste

Origin – generated from electronic products which are defective or damaged post use or not functional after excessive use over time. These products are computers, television sets, mobile phones, speakers, etc.
Scope of Recycling – Electronic waste cannot undergo complete recycling as it comprises a vast number of units assembled to complete the product. Only a few components can be salvaged from e-waste and the rest of the materials end up in a landfill. Less than 20% of e-waste can be recycled from various gadgets and appliances.

Glass Waste

Origin – generated from glass products that are procured directly from bulk scrap goods in the form of broken glass pieces or glass units removed from appliances.
Scope of Recycling – The glass components undergo a recycling process where they are crushed into a fine sand-like material, melted in a furnace, and molded into bottles or containers, thus, making them 100% recyclable.

Rubber Waste

Origin – generated from rubber products such as stationery supplied, rubber seals, tires, padding, etc.
Scope of Recycling – Rubber waste is divided during the recycling process to extract burnt materials and fiber-based materials like nylon, polyester, and rayon.

The Lifecycle of Waste

Waste can be bifurcated based on the lifecycle and material type of the products from where the waste is being generated. In order to understand the origins of waste, it is important to study the overall industrial cycle of waste generation from the manufacturing of products to the end consumer purchase and use. The origin of waste from a perspective of consumerism can be tracked to 2 sources

Pre-consumer Waste
Material diverted from the waste stream during a manufacturing process that has never reached the end-user. The waste generated in the general production process is capable of being reused as a substitute for raw material by being recycled into minute granules that act as the base form of raw material.

Post-consumer Waste
Material that has reached its intended end-user has been consumed and discarded either due to being defective, damaged, or exhausted post utility, therefore, is no longer being used for its intended purpose.

MadaBin’s goal for an Eco-Friendly Madagascar

Madabin is a well-integrated waste management company that deals in recycling, and product manufacturing from recycled materials. We set out to make a difference in the industry by prioritizing ethical and sustainable practices in manufacturing sectors. We plan to implement awareness campaigns where we train the employees and managers on disposal methods and manufacturing tactics that are sustainable and eco-friendly in nature. It is our duty to foster change and work for a sustainable future where we do not exploit the earth by overconsuming resources and polluting the planet. Rather we must understand the gravity of the situation and work towards reducing waste output and maximum conversion of waste into recycled goods.