

The "Tool for Calculating GHG Emissions in Solid Waste Management" (SWM-GHG Calculator) wants to assist in understanding the effects of proper waste management on GHG emissions. It was developed by IFEU-Institute, sponsored by KfW Entwicklungsbank in cooperation with GTZ and financed by funds of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). As it is based on the commonly used program Excel, the tool offers is accessible relatively easy.
The SWM-GHG Calculator allows quantification and comparison of GHG emissions for different waste management strategies at an early stage in the decision making process. Default values allow approximations even if basic data are not (yet) available. Additionally, the SWM-GHG Calculator provides guidance information on the costs associated with different waste management strategies.
SWM experts estimate that globally GHG emissions could be reduced by up to 10% at comparably low costs if sustainable waste management systems where put in place in particular in developing and emerging countries. Additionally they would significantly contribute to improve public health conditions and environmental protection in their countries. The SWM GHG Calculator offers the possibility to quantify the effects of sustainable waste management strategies, pointing out their particular advantages that are otherwise usually not taken into account examining possible Greenhous Gas emission reductions in waste management.
The SWM GHG Calculator and a corresponding manual providing additional basic data are written in English language and can be downloaded free of charge:
www.ifeu.org/index.php?bereich=abf&seite=klimarechner
www.kfw-entwicklungsbank.de/DE_Home/Sektoren/Abfall/Klimarechner
