Work

Comparison of Technologies for Waste Treatment with Energy Recovery: An Overview

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Currently, the generation of electricity in most countries around the world primarily relies on fossil fuels, which contribute significantly to environmental degradation and climate change. Municipal solid waste (MSW) presents a promising alternative energy source, as various technologies now exist to treat waste and recover its energy. This shift helps to reduce reliance on non-renewable resources and tackles the growing issue of waste management. This article comprehensively reviews three waste-to-energy technologies: anaerobic digestion, gasification and plasma gasification. It covers the fundamental principles behind each technology, their efficiency in energy recovery, the associated costs and their practical applications. Additionally, the article delves into the technical challenges faced in implementing these technologies, such as their scalability, economic feasibility and environmental impacts. By evaluating these technologies, the article aims to provide insights into their potential for contributing to a more sustainable and circular energy system.

Source: Waste

DOI: 10.3390/waste3010010

Authors: Quetzalli Aguilar-Virgen, Paul Taboada-González

Institution: Universidad Autónoma de Baja California

Language: English

Topic: Municipal Solid Waste Management

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207