Singapore Pneumatic Waste Collection System – Challenges
In earlier weeks, I was asked for my views about the Singapore pneumatic waste collection system. While it may seem very new, more attention needs to be paid to the maintenance and educational aspects. Such system, both mobile and stationary systems must be used responsibly.
PWCS has been around over 20 years, almost all previously in private condominiums due to affordability and a different lifestyle.
As in anything new , a lot depends on the user. Imagine the PWCS as a utility or a tool to make life easier/better just as in the case of public or private transport.
As Singapore goes up the totem pole of progress, costs continue upwards and lifestyle change (meaning improve), PWCS will become more widespread but the users are often stuck in the mindset of years past. If not, there will be higher costs, delays and inconveniences such as blockages, strong odours due to choked systems. Manual removal has to come in, which adds to the operating costs.
This article is timely to point out the unseen costs of not have a system that is disrupted by users not following disposal guidelines and recommendation. PWCS is also energy intensity so choosing between a stationary and mobile system is critical. This is a classic matter of a higher CAPEX but lower operating costs and a lower CAPEX but higher OPEX.
