Research

The results of an existing model for estimating a cost-sharing formula in relation to the joint collection of packaging as a proportion of the goods originally collected are no longer valid without reservation, as the paper & board packaging proportions have since risen very significantly, partly due to the growth in online retail and a decline in the NVP-PPK proportions. The existing model, including its parameters, must therefore be evaluated and calibrated using real-world data in order to recalculate the cost-sharing formula. The aim of the project is to validate and calibrate the model parameters in order to (1) determine the cost share of packaging collection within paper and board collection for different mass proportions under real-world (i.e. not merely model-based) conditions and options for route planning and optimisation (e.g. collection intervals), and furthermore (2) to optimise route planning for paper and board collection. As a fundamental principle of the methodology, collection rounds are to be monitored and assessed using sorting analyses and compaction tests, for which – based on the socio-economic structure – a particularly low or high proportion of packaging, in the range of 25 to 45 per cent by mass, can be expected. Monitoring the collection rounds essentially involves documenting route and travel times (GPS-assisted) and recording container volume, number and fill level. Sorting analyses involve a representative sample of containers, which are removed shortly before the respective collection round using a transfer procedure and subsequently analysed by manual sorting into a few relevant fractions.

Food production requires a significant amount of resources and energy, which leads to the release of emissions, particularly greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the form of methane and nitrous oxide from livestock farming and the use of fertilisers. These emissions are wasted if the food is not consumed but is instead thrown away. It is clear that reducing food waste can lower emissions and thus help protect our environment. As part of the ‘Lebensmittel-Drehscheibe Kostbar Markt’ platform, food from agriculture and production is to be channelled to charitable organisations, thereby helping to prevent food waste. It is essential to highlight the environmental benefits generated by utilising food from agriculture that would otherwise have been disposed of. The reporting should reflect not only the quantities distributed but also the resulting CO₂ impact. The aim of this project is therefore to provide a database that enables the conversion of the avoided waste quantities into greenhouse gas emissions saved.

Within this project a exhibition focussing on the topic of reuse for electric appliances will be developed. The traveling exhibition “Power on! – Electrical Appliances in the Cycle” vividly illustrates how electrical appliances can be used more sustainably. It focuses on the topics of resource conservation, repair, reuse, and recycling. Visitors learn about the valuable raw materials found in everyday devices such as smartphones, laptops, and household appliances, as well as the environmental consequences of a short lifespan. Through interactive stations, illustrative examples, and easy-to-understand information, the exhibition traces the life cycle of electronic devices—from raw material extraction through production and use to reuse and recycling. At the same time, it highlights concrete actions consumers can take, such as repairing instead of throwing away, using refurbished devices, passing on used devices, or properly disposing of old electronic devices. The traveling exhibition is primarily designed for schools, with a focus on lower secondary level, but can also be flexibly used in communities, educational institutions, libraries, or at events. The goal is to raise awareness of the circular economy and promote responsible use of electrical appliances. The traveling exhibition is primarily designed for schools (for students aged 12 and older), but is also offered at other locations and events (e.g., the Vienna Mistfest). The exhibition’s success will be evaluated.