ENERGY FROM WASTE: A NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCE

Abstract

The escalating global energy demand, coupled with the pressing need for sustainable waste management solutions, has prompted a paradigm shift towards exploring unconventional sources of energy. This paper delves into the potential of solid waste as an alternate and sustainable source of energy. Solid waste, a pervasive by-product of human activities, has traditionally been viewed as an environmental burden. However, advancements in technology and a growing awareness of environmental sustainability have paved the way for innovative approaches to convert solid waste into valuable energy resources. This paper reviews various technologies and processes, such as incineration, anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis and gasification, landfill gas recovery etc that transform solid waste into thermal energy, biogas, syngas and various other useful energy forms. These conversion methods not only address the challenges of waste disposal but also contribute to mitigating the reliance on conventional fossil fuels, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Energy recovery from solid waste not only provides a reliable and renewable energy source but also reduces the burden on landfills, mitigates environmental pollution, and promotes a circular economy by reusing resources. Challenges and considerations in implementing solid waste-to-energy technologies are discussed along with some case studies from around the world. The paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that integrates waste management and energy production, fostering a sustainable future where solid waste becomes a valuable resource in the global energy portfolio.