Waste-to-energy: A probable solution to global waste problem

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 10, 2022

Insight summary

Turning trash into treasure, waste-to-energy (WtE) plants are transforming garbage into fuel or gas, powering turbines, and generating electricity across Europe, East Asia, and the US. With various methods like mass-burn systems and refuse-derived fuel production, WtE contributes to economic growth, job creation, and efficient waste management. However, the complexity of environmental concerns, public resistance, and potential conflicts with recycling industries present challenges that require careful consideration and collaboration between governments, companies, and communities.

Waste-to-energy context

WtE, also called bioenergy, has been used in many countries in Europe, East Asia, and the US for decades to destroy garbage that would otherwise go to landfills. The process turns waste into energy by burning trash at high temperatures, thereby creating fuel or gas that drives turbines and churns out electricity. The global waste-to-energy market has an annual growth of 6 percent and is expected to exceed USD $35.5 billion by 2024.

WtE comprises of multiple methods and technologies. The most common type used in the US is the mass-burn system, where unprocessed municipal solid waste (MSW), often referred to simply as trash or garbage, is burned in a large incinerator with a boiler and generator to produce electricity. Another less common type of system that processes MSW removes non-combustible materials to produce refuse-derived fuel.

In a circular economy, WtE is one of the many solutions that provide economic, social, and environmental benefits. As such, governments worldwide are changing their perspective when it comes to waste, especially since two-thirds of MSW can be converted to other forms of energy, fuels, chemicals, and fertilizers for higher economic and social impact.  

Disruptive impact

WtE plants present a significant opportunity for local economies. By converting waste into energy, these facilities can create jobs and stimulate economic growth. For instance, municipalities can partner with private companies to develop and operate WtE plants, creating a new industry focused on sustainable energy production. This collaboration can lead to a more efficient waste management system, reducing the reliance on landfills and providing a local source of renewable energy.

The environmental impact of WtE plants is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While WtE technologies reduce waste volume and can contribute to renewable energy production, the emission of CO2 and dioxins remains a concern. Governments and companies need to invest in cleaner technologies and implement strict regulations to minimize these emissions. For example, the use of advanced filters and scrubbers can reduce harmful emissions, making WtE a more environmentally friendly option. 

The social implications of WtE should not be overlooked. Public resistance to WtE facilities, often rooted in health and environmental concerns, can be addressed through transparent communication and community engagement. Governments and companies need to work together to educate the public about the benefits and risks of WtE, and actively involve them in decision-making processes. 

Implications of waste-to-energy systems

Wider implications of WtE may include: 

• A shift in business models towards collaboration between waste management and energy companies, leading to more efficient utilization of resources.


• The creation of educational programs and vocational training specific to WtE technologies, leading to a skilled workforce in this specialized field.


• The development of localized energy solutions through WtE, leading to reduced energy costs for consumers and increased energy independence for communities.


• Governments prioritizing WtE in urban planning, leading to cleaner cities and reduced pressure on landfill sites.


• International collaboration on WtE technologies, leading to shared knowledge and solutions for global waste management challenges.


• Potential conflicts between WtE and recycling industries, leading to challenges in sourcing recyclable materials.


• The risk of over-reliance on WtE, leading to potential neglect of other renewable energy sources.


• Stricter regulations on WtE emissions, leading to increased operational costs for companies and potential price increases for consumers.


• Ethical concerns related to WtE in developing countries, leading to potential exploitation of labor and environmental standards.


• Potential social resistance to WtE facilities in residential areas, leading to legal battles and delays in implementation.

Questions to consider

• Can waste-to-energy systems compete with solar as an energy production source? 


• Can the reduction in waste production compensate for the direct environmental impact of waste-to-energy?


• How can the recycling and waste-to-energy industries co-exist, despite competing for the same resources?