Waste characterisation

Waste characterisation (or waste characterization in the United States), also called waste stream analysis, waste assessment, or a waste audit, is the process of separating and analysing the components of a waste stream. Waste characterisation supports efforts to improve waste management, such as evaluating the effectiveness of waste sorting programs and identifying opportunities for improving recycling. For example, analyzing the composition of biodegradable waste in a waste stream is vital in systems such as composting or anaerobic digestion.

Waste characterisation studies may be conducted at different scales by waste management companies, local governments, and private companies and organizations.