The Consultant - Q1 2009 - (Page 69) Food Waste Management – Emerging Trends travel through a municipal solid waste stream they will end up in landfill and may not break down as planned, or will breakdown in an anaerobic process creating methane. Disposal If waste cannot be reduced, reused, recycled or composted, then it will be disposed. This article cannot cover the full range of disposer, scrap collector, pulper and compactor options available. However, it is important to consider how these well-understood solutions interact with new technologies. For example, pulping prior to composting is preferred by many operators because it reduces the volume and weight of the waste. Some commercial composters push back, however, because it’s difficult to detect contamination (plastic serviceware, etc.) visually in a pulped compost product. Another technology, food waste disposers, may offer a better cost profile and carbon footprint than disposal by hauling to landfill. The reason, according to independent research, is that using the sewage system to move the food waste avoids hauling costs and air pollution. In general, reducing the volume and weight of food waste makes it easier to haul and can lead to cost and environmental benefits for operators. Master-Bilt 1/2 pg V 4.875x7.625” Master-Bilt’s MRS multi-compressor refrigeration systems add to the broadest product line in the industry. Unlike other brands offering only remote refrigeration, Master-Bilt provides everything from reach-ins to walk-ins to refrigerated warehouses. And, while this is a brand new remote system, Master-Bilt is not new to building remote systems. We've been perfecting them for years, and the new MRS delivers the latest technology for many of today's most demanding uses. The MRS series offers the following standard features and benefits: • Increased efficiency and reduced energy costs • Modular system design • Modular condenser coil designed for 110°F ambient temperatures • All stainless steel enclosure • Single point electrical and roof penetration • Options including the Master Controller system and reverse cycle defrost Call or click today for more information on walk-ins, reach-ins, refrigeration systems and more. Conclusion Waste management practices are constantly evolving and both consultants and operators need to stay focused on this area. The economic and environmental profile of waste will make it one of our top priorities in the future and now is the time to test and learn. Often what sounds good isn’t as good in practice, when all financial and environmental factors have been considered. As new technologies and practices launch, new best practices are emerging. It will be the role of consultants to help identify those practices and technologies which are most successful and promote them into the mainstream. Andrew Shakman is president and chief executive officer of LeanPath, Inc., a technology company providing sustainability solutions to the food service industry. LeanPath’s core offering, the ValuWaste® Program, enables hospitality and foodservice managers to reduce food waste, lower food cost, and operate a greener facility. First Quarter 2009 69 http://www.master-bilt.com
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