CHARACTERIZATION OF SOLID WASTE IN MERSIN UNIVERSITY - MAIN CAMPUS AND DEVELOPMENT OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

In this paper, the generated solid wastes from Mersin University (MEU) main campus were categorized into six main groups; organic wastes, paper, plastic, glass, metal, and other wastes. To achieve that, the standard method of determination of compositions of unprocessed urban wastes ASTM D5231-92 was used. The fieldwork extended over five academic years (2013-2017). The MEU's wastes formed from 37% paper and carton, 21% organic waste, 20% plastic, 11% glass, 5% metal, and 6% other wastes. The solid waste daily average generation was estimated to he 2403,04 kg.day(-1). Accordingly, the average daily generation per capita was 0.08 kg.C-1.day(-1). The relationships between waste categories had been studied in means of average daily wastes generation using Pearson's correlation test. The test results show a proportional relationship between the categories. It was figured out that 94% of solid waste in MEU's main campus could be recycled. Different scenarios were discussed to propose a management plan for MEU's main campus solid wastes. As a result of cost analysis studies, if the recyclable solid wastes were taken into consideration within the framework of financial support. the average revenue could be reached 383356.8 TL/year.