Deniz Dolgen

Energy Potential of Municipal Solid Wastes

In this article, energy recovery from municipal solid wastes is examined. The fuel characteristics of solid waste components as well as the landfill gas (LFG) yield are reviewed. The energy potential of solid wastes of Izmir (third biggest city of Turkey) is then estimated. The heating value is calculated at about 3,500–5,500 kJ/kg, particularly in urban places, whereas it is 6,000–7,000 kJ/kg for industrial and commercial establishments. LFG generation is predicted from the data taken from the Harmandali landfill area. As a result, energy generation from LFG is shown to be environmentally beneficial and an economic alternative.

Best waste management programs (BWMPs) for marinas: A case study

Marinas are usually located in coastal waters, but can also be found in lakes and rivers. Due to the activities that take place in marinas various contaminants are discharged. Specific measures have to be taken in order to keep the marina environment clean and healthy. Experiences from developed countries have shown that the most effective way to reduce pollution in marinas is the implementation of waste management programs. To this end, ‘Best Waste Management Programs’ (BWMPs) have been employed in the USA and other countries. However, in developing countries lack of available financial resources and unawareness of the concept of clean marinas may hinder the activities towards the application of BWMPs. The aim of this study is to address BWMPs in general and explain waste sources and disposal methods for marinas and yachting activities. The Kusadasi Setur marina in Turkey is investigated particularly as an example of a marina in a developing country and management measures taken in this marina are evaluated. The various kinds of waste generated in the marina are described and preventive measures against pollution taken in the marina are reviewed. Finally the importance of management programs towards the mitigation of pollution problems is emphasized.

Environmental impacts and impact mitigation plans for desalination facilities

AbstractA number of sea water desalination technologies have been developed during the last several decades. Although these techniques are promising options for freshwater augmentation in coastal establishments and islands, they may have certain impacts to the environment. To safeguard a sustainable use of desalination technology, the impacts of the desalination facility should be identified and mitigated by means of an environmental impact assessment study as well as by environmental management plans (EMPs). The EMP should include tables answering questions like who is responsible from “what” and “when” and, “which” precautions will be taken and “where” these precautions should be implemented. This study aims to analyze the potential environmental impacts of desalination plants and propose measures mitigating their negative impacts. In the article, components of a desalination system, i.e. open intake, pretreatment, membrane desalination system, outfall with diffuser, and transfer pipeline, are identifie...