Chapter 16 - Worldwide Business Models-Environmental and Financial Aspects

Abstract

Waste to energy is emerging as an attractive business option because of the huge quantities of waste being generated today. Landfilling is now viewed as environmentally unfavorable because it contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and also requires huge areas of land, which may not be possible in small countries or countries with a high population density. Moreover, large fractions of generated waste have a huge energy potential, which might get lost if sent to landfill. The waste-to-energy industry is still in its early stages in many parts of the world, and the business models are yet to be optimized for successful options. In this chapter, business models practiced in various parts of the world in the waste-to-energy industry are explored, and both their financial and their environmental aspects are dealt with. The drivers of such businesses and the problems associated with them have been studied using examples of practices in various countries. One major conclusion is that there is a huge potential for revenue through energy generation from waste, but most countries suffer from poor waste management practices and little or no incentives to establish such businesses. There exist a variety of models, which can be implemented both in poor countries, such as those of Africa, and in rich countries, such as those of Europe. Government regulations, laws, incentives, and support are highly important to the growth of waste-to-energy businesses and play a major role in choosing the right kind of business model. The best business model for a particular region should be designed considering these factors as well as the environmental impacts.