Mapping Waste Systems
Supervised by faculty at the Knowlton School of Architecture, a series of maps were developed to visually communicate waste systems and inefficiencies through cartographic media. Through geographic information systems and data processing, these maps revealed patterns and interconnectivity between unbalanced waste systems, compromised infrastructure, and the effect they have on the health of hydraulic and ecological systems.
These maps were developed for publication and use by the Working Landscapes Lab of the Knowlton School of Architecture.
Visualizing Human & Animal Waste Systems
Output Production & Management Practices
Between humans and masses of farmed animals throughout the country, the United States creates great quantities of excrement. It is estimated that a little less than 8% of farms fertilize the manure, meaning the high majority of the output produced by farm animals is wasted.
Combined Sewer Systems & Impaired Waterways
Infrastructure Compromising Water Systems
There are over 700 cities in the United States which have combined sewer systems that collect stormwater runoff, domestic sewage, and industrial wastewater in the same pipe. In extreme rainfall events, these sewers will discharge from overflows (CSOs) into nearby waterways. CSOs are common in the Northeast and Midwest, regions which also have high quantities of impaired waterways.
Food Waste Management & Composting Programs
Understanding Food Waste Management Initiatives
Consumer food waste accounts for the highest proportion of municipal solid waste in the United States. Landfilling this food waste costs the country billions of dollars and perpetuates a system of irresponsible and unproductive waste management. In response to this waste problem, more municipal composting programs are forming throughout the country.