Self-Assessment Questions (SAQs) for Study Session 9

Now that you have completed this study session, you can assess how well you have achieved its Learning Outcomes by answering these questions.

SAQ 9.1 (tests Learning Outcomes 9.1 and 9.2)

Explain whether the following waste collection vehicles would be better suited to primary or secondary collections:

  • a.wheelbarrow
  • b.donkey cart
  • c.flatbed truck.

Answer

  • a.The wheelbarrow would only be suitable for primary collections. While it can work in the most crowded areas, it is not suitable for transporting waste more than around 100 metres.
  • b.The donkey cart would mainly be used for primary collections. In situations where the waste disposal site is close to the town (1 km or so) and road conditions are good, it might be possible to use the donkey cart for secondary transport.
  • c.The flatbed truck would mainly be used for secondary collections from transfer stations and communal bins – it is too large to use in many areas. However, it may be used for primary collections from markets and business premises.

SAQ 9.2 (tests Learning Outcome 9.3)

Give four reasons why transfer stations are needed.

Answer

There are a number of reasons. The main ones are to:

  • allow waste to be deposited close to where it is produced and then be taken to disposal sites more than a few kilometres away
  • reduce illegal dumping
  • make the collection and transport system more efficient and cost-effective
  • allow the waste to be screened to remove recyclable materials.

SAQ 9.3 (tests Learning Outcome 9.4)

Assume that you are a solid waste collection manager for a small town. What equipment would you need to run an effective solid waste management system?

Answer

This system would need:

  • primary collection vehicles (mainly carts and barrows)
  • communal waste storage bins for individuals and primary collectors to deposit wastes in
  • transfer stations to collect and store the waste from primary collections and communal bins. The transfer stations should be built on hardstanding and be fenced-off. They will need sufficient containers, a tractor (or other loading device), a covered storage area and staff amenity building
  • secondary collection vehicles to take the waste from the transfer stations to the final disposal site.

SAQ 9.4 (tests Learning Outcome 9.5)

How could you encourage private sector waste collection enterprises to serve households that cannot afford to pay for the service?

Answer

The private sector waste collection enterprises could be paid a fee directly from the kebele based on the total volume of waste that they deliver to the transfer station.

Summary of Study Session 9