Space Age Technology at Kaizer Meadow
Space-age technology is being used to improve environmental efficiency at the Kaizer Meadow Environmental Management Centre landfill site.
With the installation of a GPS unit onboard a waste compactor, what was once an ordinary piece of landfill equipment has been transformed into a computer-aided earth -moving system. “Using GPS technology to improve environmental efficiency in this way is a Canadian first,” says David Daniels, manager of the Kaizer Meadow Environmental Management Centre.
The GPS system allows the amount of land needed for garbage to be maximized by ensuring waste is fully compacted. Satellite-controlled sensors on board the compactor alert the operator, as well as management in the main office when the waste fully compacted to industry standards, - 1400 pounds per cubic meter. “It maximizes compaction in the landfill while minimizing the time it takes to compact the waste,” says Mr. Daniels. “It’s an excellent investment.”
By signaling when waste is fully compacted, the compactor technology saves the operator time and thereby reduces fuel costs for the Municipality of the District of Chester, the body responsible for operation of the site. Waste compacting is closely monitored at Kaizer Meadow. Each cubic meter of air space costs $46. In addition to saving money, full waste compaction significantly reduces the landfill’s environmental footprint, thereby ensuring that impact on the environment surrounding the site is minimized.
Environmental compliance is extremely important in the Municipality of the District of Chester. The Municipality’s investment in GPS technology aboard its waste compactor is one example of how the Kaizer Meadow Environmental Management Centre is a leader in environmental management.
