Republic of the Philippines

BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY

The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

ENGG 412 - Material Science and Engineering

1st SEMESTER AY 2024-2025

Case Study:
The Impact of Waste-to-Energy Technology on Environmental Waste

SUBMITTED BY:
Bantog, Napisah T.
Cruzat, Dean Mark
Faltado Jr., Fernando
Ite, Gerico Mhikel
Layda, Kirt Justine A.
Ledesma, Shane Justin J.
EE-3103

SUBMITTED TO:
Rhonalyn Maulion
Instructor

Leading Innovations, Transforming Lives, Building the Nation

 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

I. INTRODUCTION

This case study will explore the environmental impact of WTE technology, examining
both its potential benefits and drawbacks in terms of waste reduction, energy generation, and
overall sustainability.
Quantity of waste produced either by inhabitants or by industrial companies is considered
to be one of the most serious environmental problems. The side effects of human society and
industrial development are air pollution, depletion of the ozone layer (fossil fuel consumption for
power production), excessive soil erosion and its pollution by various substances, water pollution
etc. Another significant side effect which is also constantly increasing is the production of waste.
The quantity of waste produced by inhabitants and industrial companies, worldwide, has
significantly grown during recent decades. Numerous challenges are being addressed in the field
of environmental protection. The challenges facing concerned citizens and decision-makers are
formidable; they focus upon the challenge to identify and implement long-term solutions in solid
waste management that are environmentally safe, socially acceptable and cost-effective.
Landfilling of waste, which has not been pre-treated to decrease their organic matter content, is
limited. This represents a driving force for development of new, more effective methods of waste
processing.

Waste-to-Energy (WTE) technology refers to the process of generating energy in the form
of electricity or heat from the combustion of waste materials through processes such as
combustion, gasification, and anaerobic digestion. This process serves a dual purpose: it reduces
the volume of waste sent to landfills while simultaneously generating power. Over the years,
WTE has emerged as a promising solution to the growing challenges of urban waste
management and the need for cleaner energy sources. Waste to Energy (WTE) represents an
important strategy in the area of waste treatment at present. This approach leads to purification of
waste disposal and also to maximum utilization of energy contained in flue gas. Its importance is
going to increase in the future. Thermal treatment with heat recovery (Waste-to-Energy, WTE) is
more and more preferred due to a number of advantages. Naturally, the public acceptance of
increased use of incineration necessitates effective elimination of the environmental impacts.
Thus, the regulations concerning the quality of side products from the incineration processes
(namely flue gas, wastewater and solid residues) are becoming increasingly stringent. These
systems are designed to minimize the environmental impact of waste while harnessing its
potential to generate

With development of the processes the requirement on effective recovery of heat released
is constantly growing. Today we therefore speak about WTE. Efficiency of energy production
from waste is much lower than efficiency of energy generation in conventional plants utilizing
fossil fuels. This is caused by several constraints given by specific properties of waste used as a

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

fuel (reduction of maximum output steam pressure due to corrosion risk, higher flue gas
temperature leaving the boiler, etc.).

Due to more and more sweeping legislation related to the WTE plant operation, it
provides us with one of the cleanest and reliable energy in the form of heat as well as power.
However, this trend also has an important side effect. The overall energy demand of the process
is increasing. The more complex and effective the systems are, the higher is the energy demand
for electrical appliances driving and higher consumption of heat for maintaining optimal
operational regime. This decreases heat delivery to the consumers and plant power generation
and subsequently it results in lower efficiencies of energy production.

The WTE facilities are somewhat less efficient than conventional electricity plants that
use fossil fuel. This is partly due to specific equipment requirements for incineration of waste
such as reduction of the maximum output steam pressure due to corrosion risks. Additionally,
due to increasing environmental regulatory standards, require the addition of pollution control
equipment. The more complex and effective the systems are, the higher is the energy demand for
electrical appliances for the system as well as more energy is required for maintaining an optimal
operational regime for the incinerator facilities. There are also some other improvement options,
widely used in power generation facilities and in the processing industry, of which heat
integration has received considerable attention during the last 25 years (Klemeš et al. and Perry
et al.)

The alarming rate of municipal solid waste (MSW) generation worldwide has severe
environmental, health and economic implications. Traditional waste management practices, such
as landfills, contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, soil and water pollution, and
public health risks. The urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions has led to
increased adoption of Waste-to-Energy (WtE) technology. WtE converts MSW into energy
through processes like incineration, gasification and anaerobic digestion, offering a promising
alternative.

This case study investigates the environmental impact of WtE technology implementation
in [specific location/city/country], analyzing key metrics such as greenhouse gas emissions
reduction, waste diversion rates, energy generation efficiency, pollution mitigation and economic
benefits. The research aims to provide valuable insights into WtE technology's effectiveness,
benefits and challenges, informing policy decisions on sustainable waste management strategies
and contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change and promote environmental
sustainability.

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

II. LITERATURE REVIEW

The development and evolution of Waste-to-energy technologies have a rich history. Over
the years, these technologies have undergone significant advancements and breakthroughs. From
the early experiments with incineration in the 19th century to the modern anaerobic digestion and
gasification processes, Waste-to-energy technologies have come a long way in their effectiveness
and efficiency.

The interest in implementing waste-to-energy (WtE) solutions for municipal solid waste
(MSW) is increasing on a global scale motivated by the environmental concerns that arise from
inadequate disposal. The evaluation of the environmental impacts associated with WtE
technologies has been widely addressed through the life-cycle assessment (LCA) methodology.
However, a robust analysis of the environmental consequences of implementing WtE solutions
requires the consideration of the entire MSW management system.

Energy is significant to societal development and is the main driver of global technology.
It plays a pivotal role in virtually every aspect of human endeavour. Energy is a factor of
production and is therefore a nexus for sustainable development (Mapako and Stafford, 2020).
The current means of meeting energy demands has been dominated by burning fossil fuels which
is found to be unsustainable and environmentally unfriendly Alao et al., 2022. Over the years,
fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas and oil have been exploited to meet several energy services
such as electricity, transportation, heating and cooking purposes. Gaseous emissions from
exploration and exploitation of fossil fuels have caused unprecedented environmental havoc.
Unfortunately, the reserves of these fossil resources are limited; and with its current spate of
exploitation, they may be completely used up in no distant time.

The world is experiencing a rapidly growing population and rising public living standard,
which leads to increases in the generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) and consumption of
energy and goods. These activities result in changes in land use, deforestation, intensified
agricultural practices, industrialization, and energy use from fossil fuels. All of these practices
along with the MSW generation lead to ever-growing concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG)
in the environment and higher risk to public health by unscientific disposal (Palacio 2019). MSW
can be defined as non-hazardous, biodegradable/non-biodegradable,
carbonaceous/non-carbonaceous, and reusable or unusable solid waste that is generated from
households, offices, trade, garden, yard, and street (Ngusale et al. 2017; Abbasi 2018). MSW in
the developing world is facing significant management and disposal problems. MSW
management problems are more prominent in the middle- and low- income countries due to the
fast growing population and urbanization (Alam and Ahmade 2013; Damtew and Desta 2015).
Previous work correlates the increase in solid waste generation rate with the increase in

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

population, technological development, and changes in the public lifestyle (Ali 2009; Monavari
et al. 2012; Leone et al. 2013).

Municipal solid waste generation in terms of quantity and future forecast is of utmost
importance for the planning of waste management systems. Various reports have shown that
increases in the quantity of waste generated worldwide have resulted due to the rise in
population, urbanization, living standard, and industrialization in and around the town. Rapid
industrialization is also responsible for people’s migration from rural to urban areas for
livelihood (Karak et al. 2012; Dev and Siddharth 2020). Thus, every individual is affected by the
solid waste generation directly or indirectly. However, few authors have suggested any optimistic
perspective regarding the increasing volumes of solid waste as being anything other than a
problem. Further, a higher amount of MSW provides free resources and employment
opportunities, especially for the poor and the marginalized people (Singh et al. 2011; Angelo
2014).

Waste-to-Energy (WtE) technology is increasingly recognized as a crucial strategy for

managing waste and generating renewable energy. It involves converting various types of
waste—such as municipal solid waste, agricultural residues, and industrial byproducts—into
electricity, heat, or fuel through methods like incineration, pyrolysis, gasification, and anaerobic
digestion. This approach addresses two significant global challenges: the rising volume of waste
and the urgent need for alternative energy sources to combat climate change. WtE reduces
landfill dependency, curtails methane emissions from organic waste decomposition, and
minimizes the ecological footprint of waste management systems. Advanced technologies like
gasification and pyrolysis are particularly noted for their potential to lower greenhouse gas
emissions compared to traditional incineration. Successful implementation requires robust policy
frameworks, public awareness, and investment in infrastructure. Developed nations often lead in
WtE deployment due to their advanced infrastructure and policies, while developing countries
face challenges such as high capital costs and lack of technical expertise.

Given the growing interest in adopting WtE in developing countries, the need to assess the
economic, environmental, and social impacts of various WtE options as a basis for informed
decision-making has been of interest to policy and decision-makers. The sustainability
assessment for any system needs to be framed within the context of an intersection between the
three sustainability pillars: environmental, economic, and social. Hence, a holistic approach to
assessing the sustainability impacts of WtE systems needs to include indicators that extend
across the three pillars of sustainability, with overlaps in certain areas. Some recent studies have
explored the sustainability of various WtE systems, but they have focused more on indicators
from a single pillar (primarily environmental), while others have included indicators spanning
two of the pillars.. However, including indicators across all three pillars is far less prevalent in

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

the literature, as are critical discussions on how these can be integrated to provide a more
comprehensive assessment of sustainability (Nubi, 2024).

III. CASE STUDY EXAMPLES

Waste-to-Energy (WTE) technology is a process that converts non-recyclable waste into

energy, primarily in the form of electricity and heat. This process involves several key steps:
from the semi-solid (e.g. thickened sludge from effluent treatment plants) to liquid (e.g.
domestic sewage) waste. The current most known WtE technologies are: Incineration: Direct
combustion of municipal solid waste (MSW) and/or refuse-derived fuel between 750 and
1100ºC in the presence of oxygen that produces steam for electricity and/or heat generation in a
boiler or steam turbine. It can generate heat or electricity, or combined heat and power.
Gasification: Partial oxidation of waste (e.g. wood waste, agricultural residues, sewage sludge,
and plastic waste) between 800 and 1200ºC in the presence of a controlled amount of oxygen
that produces synthetic gas for further combustion or conversion to chemical feedstock.
Pyrolysis: Thermal degradation of waste (e.g. wood waste, agricultural residues, sewage sludge,
and plastic waste) between 300 and 1300ºC in the absence of oxygen that produces liquid fuel
for further combustion or conversion to chemical feedstock. Anaerobic digestion:
Biodegradation of (readily degradable) organic wastes in the absence of oxygen by anaerobic
microorganisms. Waste input can be separated into organic fraction of MSW, food waste,
animal/human excreta, or liquids and sludges. The digestion produces biogas and digestate.
Biogas can be used as fuel for power generators. Digestate can be composted for use as a soil
conditioner or dewatered and used as a low calorific value refuse-derived fuel. (UNCC, 2024)

Environmental benefits of WTE technology includes: (1). Reduced Landfill Waste: By

converting waste into energy, WTE significantly reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills.
(EIA, 2024). This helps conserve land resources and minimizes the negative environmental
impacts associated with landfills, such as methane emissions and groundwater contamination. In
contrast, by decreasing the volume of waste that ends up in landfills, WtE facilities reduce the
potential for leachate, prevent groundwater contamination and the release of toxic materials.
(ESWET, 2024). (2). Clean Energy Generation: WTE plants generate clean energy, reducing
reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In conversations about the
environment, sustainability refers to any process that can be carried forward into the future
indefinitely. Some assert that WTE is a sustainable option because there’s unlikely to ever be a
serious shortage of waste. In fact, some states consider WTE plants to be renewable energy
facilities that reduce methane and greenhouse gas emissions (TARA Energy, 2024). (3).
Resource Recovery: Valuable materials, such as metals, can be recovered from the ash
produced during the incineration process. Another benefit of waste-to-energy over landfilling is

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

the opportunity to recover valuable resources such as metals post-incineration. They can then be
sent for recycling and kept in the economy. This is even true of mixed materials, which are
notoriously hard to recycle. Incineration burns away materials such as plastics leaving the
metals behind, which can be considered better than landfills where recyclable materials are
simply buried (Ross Guberman, 2021). (4). Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: WTE plants
can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based power generation. The
combustion of municipal solid waste (MSW) to generate heat or electricity (waste-to-energy
(WTE)) could reduce net greenhouse gas emissions in the United States compared with
combusting methane from landfills. Moreover, negative CO2 emissions could be achieved with
carbon capture and sequestration because 66% of the carbon in MSW is typically biogenic. For
the 5-largest landfill sites in each state, we estimate that at least 58 and 11 have enough MSW to
fuel WTE plants of >50 MWe and >100 MWe, respectively. Furthermore, half lie within 20 km
of potential underground saline and other storage reservoirs. We estimate that the levelized
electricity cost for WTE without CO2 capture is US$94/MWh and is US$285/MWh with
amine-based post-combustion capture technology. The cost of CO2 capture is US$58/Mg CO2,
resulting in a cost for carbon negative emissions of US$93/Mg CO2, substantially lower than
for some geo-engineering methods, including capturing CO2 from air (Jackson Lab, 2012).

Copenhagen's Amager Bakke is a state-of-the-art WTE plant that serves as a prime

example of the positive impact of WTE technology. Amager Bakke can treat more than 400,000
tonnes of non-recyclable waste every year. This waste is incinerated in two large
waste-to-energy lines that each have a capacity of up to 42 tonnes of waste per hour. For every
tonne of waste, Amager Bakke generates 2.7 MWh district heating and 0.8 MWh low-carbon
electricity. After incineration, non-flammable materials such as ash and metals are collected and
processed for reuse. For instance, bottom ash from Amager Bakke can be reused in road
construction. This reduces the need for other natural resources such as sand and gravel, while
also contributing to the circular economy. Amager Bakke’s flue gas treatment system is one of
the most advanced in the world and is the first waste-to-energy plant in Denmark with a catalyst
to remove harmful NOx particles(RAMBOLL, 2024). This innovative facility not only converts
waste into energy but also functions as a public attraction, featuring a ski slope and hiking trail
on its roof. Amager Bakke, also known as Amager Hill, is a household waste-to-energy plant
designed by architect Bjarke Ingels Group to house a recreational centre on its roof
(Copenhagenill). Commissioned in 2017, it incinerates the waste of more than 500,000 residents
and 45,000 businesses each year, generating heat and electricity for almost 150,000 homes. The
building has 43,000 m2 of floor space and stands 85 m high. Equipped with the latest
technology, the facility is exceptionally efficient and produces far more energy than the previous
waste-to-energy plant it replaced. To enable this configuration, the first of its kind in the world,
Artelia Denmark harnesses all its experience in designing multi-purpose plants. Creating a roof
that is both flexible and robust, capable of supporting a ski slope (with a ski lift), a municipal

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

park (with trees) and various sports facilities (climbing wall, trail course, hiking area) required
the design of an adapted steel structure and the use of special steels. Already picked up the
Tekla Global BIM Award for its use of digital tools, this project was awarded the European
Steel Prize for its “ambitious vision for how a green energy plant can be combined with
recreational areas that encourage adventure, play and movement” (ARTELIA, 2017).

Amager Bakke Plant has a lot of benefits, which includes: Reduced Landfill Waste: The
plant processes a significant portion of Copenhagen's waste, reducing the city's reliance on
landfills. Globally, waste incineration remains the most common method of municipal waste
treatment, after landfills. Interestingly, landfills have been banned in Denmark for over 20 years,
making waste incineration the ultimate step in waste disposal there. According to the facility
managers, Amager Bakke is one of the most advanced incinerators in the world, handling
560,000 tons of waste per year—which accounts for over 10% of all the waste generated in
Denmark—while yielding greenhouse gas emissions far below EU regulatory requirements, the
plant’s own environmental approved limits, and even current state-of-the-art reference levels (
Kozka, LaBuff, & Mtambo, 2023). And, Clean Energy Generation: The plant generates
electricity and district heating for a large portion of the city. Commissioned in 2017, it
incinerates the waste of more than 500,000 residents and 45,000 businesses each year,
generating heat and electricity for almost 150,000 homes. The building has 43,000 m2 of floor
space and stands 85 m high. Equipped with the latest technology, the facility is exceptionally
efficient and produces far more energy than the previous waste-to-energy plant it replaced
(ARTELIA, 2017)

The implementation of Waste-to-Energy (WTE) technology requires careful planning,

significant investment, and adherence to strict environmental regulations. The implementation
of WTE involves several steps: Feasibility Study: A comprehensive assessment of the project's
technical, economic, and environmental feasibility. The purpose of a feasibility assessment is to
objectively evaluate the viability of a proposed project, considering factors such as technical
feasibility, market demand, financial costs and benefits, legal requirements, and organizational
readiness. By thoroughly assessing these aspects, a feasibility study helps project stakeholders
make an informed go-or-no-go decision. Conducting a feasibility study is an important step in
successful project management. By evaluating the viability of a proposed project, a feasibility
study helps you identify potential challenges and opportunities, ensuring you make informed
decisions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to conduct a feasibility study with practical
templates and real-world examples, designed for project managers seeking to optimize their
project planning process (Martins, 2024). Site Selection: Careful selection of a suitable site
considering factors like proximity to waste sources, population density, and environmental
impact. One of the planning protocols to complete the management system of this waste is the
determination of a suitable landfill location, where various energy generation technologies

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

should be installed. When a suitable location is found, the process of harvesting and distributing
energy to the settlement is optimally, effectively, and efficiently operated. The selection of a
suitable site requires an extensive evaluation process, where the location should consider
various factors, such as the ecological and environmental, economic and infrastructural, social,
natural disaster vulnerability, and biological conditions (NIH, 2022). Technology Selection:
Choosing the appropriate WTE technology based on the type and quantity of waste, local
regulations, and environmental considerations. Permitting and Licensing: Obtaining necessary
permits and licenses from local, state, and federal authorities. Financing: Securing funding for
the project, which often involves a combination of public-private partnerships and financial
institutions. Construction and Installation: Building the WTE plant, including the installation
of equipment for waste processing, combustion, heat recovery, and power generation.
Operation and Maintenance: Ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of the plant,
including regular maintenance and monitoring of emissions.

Despite its potential benefits, WTE technology faces several challenges: The
disadvantages of waste-to-energy are numerous and have become more apparent in recent years.
They include the pollution and particulates it generates, the destruction of useful materials, and
the potential to disincentivize more sustainable waste management solutions and renewable
energy sources (GUBERMAN, 2021). High Initial Investment: The construction and
operation of WTE plants require significant capital investment. However, the long-term
economic and environmental benefits often justify the initial expenditure (Magdy, 2024).

Another challenge is public perception and acceptance. Concerns about air pollution,
potential health risks, and the aesthetic impact of WTE plants can hinder public support. For
instance, waste is responsible for air pollution and has severe health impacts, if it is not treated
through proper technology. In the developing world, most of it is either dumped in an open
place or burned. Consequently, both of these methods of waste treatment pollute the air and
raise health issues. In addition, methane and CO2 emissions from open dumpsites are
responsible for adverse climate change. One of the sub-goals of SDG-12 is, by 2030,
substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse
(Khan, 2022). Furthermore, the quality and composition of the waste feedstock can significantly
impact the efficiency and environmental performance of WTE plants. Inconsistent waste quality
can lead to operational challenges and reduced energy output. To mitigate this issue, effective
waste management practices, including source separation and recycling, are essential (Rezania,
2023).

Despite these challenges, WTE technology has demonstrated significant results in

reducing waste, generating clean energy, and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Successful
implementation of WTE projects has led to reduced landfill waste, improved air quality, and

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

increased energy security. However, it is important to note that WTE should be considered as
part of a comprehensive waste management strategy that prioritizes waste reduction, reuse, and
recycling. By combining WTE with other sustainable waste management practices, we can
maximize the environmental benefits of this technology.

IV. IMPACT ANALYSIS

Economic

WTE technologies are therefore very economically beneficial in terms of converting

waste into both energy and disposal services, hence reducing the use of landfills and generating
revenue through the sale of energy. The high initial costs of building a WTE facility are often
compensated by long-term operational savings due to reduced waste disposal and the income
generated from the production of energy. The growth of the industry will be driven by the
increasing world production of waste, demand for renewable energy, and positive government
policies toward sustainable alternative energy. Innovations in WTE technology, like improved
emissions control and improved efficiency, further enhance economic attractiveness in the sector.

These advancements ensure the continued competitiveness of WTE in the renewable

energy market. In addition, this supports the concept of a circular economy by making less
dependence on fossil fuels, thus preventing environmental degradation. With increasing trends of
sustainability at a global level, these WTE technologies have emerged as an integrated solution
for challenges related to waste and energy production. Long-term financial gains with the
possibility of lesser negative impacts on the environment make WTE a rapidly rising industry,
playing a strong economic role in future landscapes of energy production. This growth would
further spur investments in WTE infrastructure and improvements in technology. This is what
makes it one of the primary renewable energy markets in the coming future, considering that the
correct regulations and innovation might establish it as an important step towards global
transitions toward cleaner energies.

Environmental

The significant benefits of waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies are diverted from

landfills and thus cut down methane emissions that form a strong greenhouse gas. The amount of
produced energy offsets fossil fuel consumption; thereby, clean energy is created. On the other
hand, it provides support for waste management, as the WTE disposes of non recyclable waste
products in a landfill, but ecologically the outcome is not to be minimized, considering emissions

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

produced in burning incineration and disposal of remaining ash. Modern systems have adopted
advanced filters and emission controls to overcome these limitations. Plasma gasification reduces
pollutants and enhances energy recovery. WTE reduces dependence on landfills, protecting land
and preventing groundwater pollution. The lifecycle analysis of WTE indicates that there is a
need to balance energy recovery with reduced pollution. The regulatory approach usually
compels environmental compliance and ensures least damage. Finally, public awareness and
community involvement play important roles in the adoption of sustainable WTE systems
improvements.

The environmental effects of waste-to-energy conversion are both positive and negative.
On the one hand, waste-to-energy conversion reduces landfill waste, lowers greenhouse
emissions, and produces renewable energy. On the other hand, it causes air pollution, harmful
emissions, toxic residues, and health risks. Therefore, waste-to-energy systems have a positive
environmental effect in the reduction of landfill waste, lowering greenhouse gas emissions,
producing renewable energy, and supporting resource recovery. Nevertheless, they have some
adverse impacts because they emit air pollutants, and they produce toxic ash. Additionally, it
fosters the production of increased waste. WTE controls land pollution, saves resources and
mitigates most of its criticisms by its emissions risks through new technologies and controls. The
sustainability maximization of WTE in offsetting ecological risks is premised on the benefits
obtained when weighed against the adverse aspects.

Waste to Energy (WTE), is a term that is used to describe various technologies that
convert non-recyclable waste into usable forms of energy including heat, fuels and electricity.
WTE can occur through a number of processes such as incineration, gasification, pyrolysis,
anaerobic digestion, and landfill gas recovery. The term WTE is commonly used in specific
reference to incineration which burns completely combusted waste at ultra-high temperatures
allowing for energy recovery. Modern incineration facilities use pollution control equipment to
prevent the release of emissions into the environment. Currently incineration is the only WTE
technology that is economically viable and operationally feasible at commercial scale. Another
example of WTE is anaerobic digestion (AD), an old but effective technology that biologically
converts organic material into compost as well as biogas for energy. AD systems have large
potential and can range from low to high tech, therefore they can service communities of all
income levels. Another process, called pyrolysis, can thermo-chemically convert waste products
into clean liquid fuels. Finally, landfill gas recovery refers to the process of capturing the gases
emitted from municipal landfills and converting it for energy. The most common form of
collection occurs by drilling horizontal or vertical wells into the landfill and uses blowers and
vacuums to collect the gas for treatment. (Student Energy, n.d)

Supporting global waste management goals. The Sustainable Development Goals

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Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
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College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

(SDGs), also known as the ‘Global Goals’, are objectives that lay out a roadmap to creating a
socially, economically and environmentally sustainable future. The goals were created by the
United Nations with the aim of providing a shared global blueprint for peace and prosperity for
people and planet, now and into the future. Each of the 17 goals call for urgent action by all
countries to support and provide capacity building for the SDGs and each of the thematic issues
they address. The SDGs cover a wide range of topics and indicators from water, energy and
climate to transport, urbanisation and healthcare, amongst others. In order to make the SDGs a
reality, all countries, stakeholders, businesses and individuals need to take ownership of the goals
and ensure commitments are translated into action. The SDGs may not be legally binding,
however, they reflect the shifting stakeholder expectations. Businesses around the world are
embracing sustainability and integrating the SDGs as a part of their core strategy to drive growth,
lower risk, attract investment and focus their purpose. The SDG Compass provides a thorough
guide for businesses to take action on global goals. With this in mind, we will now examine how
Don’t Waste supports and helps companies contribute to the sustainable development agenda.
(Michael Foreman, 2022) Waste generation has increased massively around the world in recent
decades, and there are no signs of it slowing down. More than two billion metric tons of
municipal solid waste (MSW) are generated worldwide every year, and this figure is expected to
increase by roughly 70 percent by 2050. With such immense volumes of waste arising, the need
for authorities to provide adequate waste treatment and disposal services has become ever more
important. (Bruna Alves, 2024)

Waste Reduction and Landfill Management. One of the primary benefits of recycling
is diverting waste from landfills. By recycling materials, less waste is sent to landfills, easing the
burden on limited landfill space. Landfills pose various capacity and space issues, including the
risk of groundwater contamination and the emission of harmful gases. Recycling helps alleviate
these concerns by reducing the amount of waste that needs to be disposed of in landfills.
Additionally, reducing landfill waste through recycling presents economic benefits, such as cost
savings in waste management and potential revenue generation from the sale of recycled
materials. Recycling is a vital solution for reducing waste and pollution. Through recycling, the
need for raw material extraction is minimized, energy is conserved, and greenhouse gas
emissions are reduced. Recycling diverts waste from landfills, addresses capacity and space
issues, and provides economic benefits. It aligns with the concept of a circular economy,
promoting job creation and economic growth. Despite challenges and controversies, recycling
continues to evolve with advancements in technology and research. With continued action and
awareness, recycling can play a significant role in achieving environmental sustainability and
reducing the waste management crisis. (Green. Org, 2021)

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

Societal

Waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies greatly help in waste management by converting

wastes into renewable energy, a reduction in the use of landfills, and thereby reducing the
environmental impacts of the waste disposal process. These help in reducing public health risks
attributed to unmanaged wastes. For instance, these include diseases and respiratory problems
associated with pollution. Modern WTE plants are designed with increased safety features that
reduce toxic emissions, thus creating clean environments. WTE supports sustainable energy
development by reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Consequently, it contributes to urban
energy security. The integration of WTE systems also fosters economic growth through energy
production and waste management. This improves the quality of life in communities by
promoting a circular economy and reducing pollution. The technologies of WTE ensure scalable
solutions to urban challenges in waste management, leading to sustainable development.
Ultimately, they contribute to forming the safest and healthiest communities.

Improved Waste Management Systems. Governments must invest in infrastructure for

safe and efficient waste collection, recycling, and disposal—especially in developing countries
where infrastructure gaps are most pronounced. Such investments should be centered on
developing central facilities for sorting, recycling, and energy recovery. The advanced
technologies like waste-to-energy systems also should be adopted in order to reduce landfill
dependency. This can be financially and technically supported through collaboration with the
private sectors and international organizations. Public awareness campaigns are also necessary to
encourage community participation in segregation and recycling of waste. All these can lead to
an all-round sustainable waste management system that can both contribute to environmental
sustainability and public health as well as contribute to economic development.

Clean Environment. A clean environment is beneficial not only to species living within
it, but also to humans as demonstrated above. It is essential that we remain proactive in creating
policies that will protect our planet’s natural resources for future generations. Green spaces also
provide other less visible benefits such as increasing the quality of local water supply by acting
as natural filtration systems and reducing agricultural pollution runoff through reduced use of
pesticides and fertilisers. In coastal areas, healthy marine ecosystems are vital in protecting
coastlines from severe storms while preserving sea life habitat. A clean environment holds
numerous benefits, such as helping to improve mental health, reduce air pollutants and toxins, as
well as protecting marine life and coastlines. To protect not only the environment, but our own
health, we need to be proactive in creating policies that will help conserve natural resources for
future generations. (Calibre Cleaning, 2023)

Providing a renewable energy source. Renewable energy is energy that is produced

from natural processes and continuously replenished. A few examples of renewable energy are

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The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

sunlight, water, wind, tides, geothermal heat, and biomass. The energy that is provided by
renewable energy resources is used in 5 important areas such as air and water cooling/heating,
electricity generation, the rural sector, and transportation. The existence of renewable energy
resources is spread over a wide geographical area in comparison to the conventional energy
resources which are often concentrated in a limited number of countries like the oil and gas are
mostly concentrated in the Middle East countries. The use of renewable energy resources in
energy generation is resulting in less pollution and has a significant effect on economic benefits
and energy security. (BYJU’S, 2024)

Reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Reducing our dependence on fossil fuels can be
helped by individual change, but alone this is not enough, and governments need to make use of
carbon pricing, end fossil fuel subsidies and invest in a transition to cleaner energy. In general,
people support the greater use of renewable energies, like solar and wind. However, at least in
the UK, there is often local resistance to wind farms and solar farms being placed in certain
locations. Recently in Cumbria, a Green party councillor got elected by opposing a solar farm.
The point is we like renewable energy until we have to look at wind turbines and solar panels on
our favourite hill. One solution is to compensate those nearby with cheaper power bills.
Personally, I don’t understand why people object to the visual cost of solar panels and wind
turbines. When I see them, I see hope for the planet's future. But, one cost of renewable energy is
the higher use of land than more traditional fossil fuels. This is why offshore wind farms will
meet with less resistance. (Tejvan Pettimger, 2022)

V. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion

Technology that is deemed Waste-to-Energy (WTE) appears to be a potential solution for

the challenges faced in waste disposal and energy generation. With WTE, more waste materials
do not go to landfills since the technologies allow for the burning or gasifying or anaerobic
digestion of waste into energy, thus saving land space and helping to alleviate negative impacts
on the environment such as methane emissions. Further, WTE contributes to the generation of
clean energy hence reducing dependence on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The recovered materials from the waste, through recycling, broaden the scope of this technology
towards sustainability while optimizing the pressure on landfills.

There is a range of WTE technology that has its share of merits but its widespread
adoption will be subject to a series of hurdles including social criticism related to the potential
threat it poses to the health of the people concerned over its contribution to air pollution. It is of
utmost importance to address those challenges to win the sympathy of the people and ensure that
this technology is availed. In addition, this situation presents additional difficulties for operations

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

concerning waste management as the quality of waste input tends to vary. By combining WTE
with sustainable waste management together with its constant innovation, we can use its
potential to give us a cleaner and better world in a more efficient way of utilizing our WTE
plants while creating new jobs and saving costs in the long run.

Overall this study concludes that WTE is a promising solution but requires careful
planning, investment, and ongoing innovation to overcome its challenges and realize its full
potential.

Recommendations

Waste-to-energy (WTE) technology holds immense promise for a cleaner and more
sustainable future. By converting waste into energy, WTE offers a powerful solution to the dual
challenges of waste management and energy production. However, realizing WTE's full potential
requires concerted efforts to address its technological, policy, economic, and social challenges.

Technological Advancements:

● Cleaner Air: Continuous research and development should focus on improving air
pollution control technologies, minimizing emissions, and ensuring strict compliance
with environmental regulations. This will build public trust and ensure WTE's ecological
responsibility.
● Energy Efficiency: Innovative technologies, such as advanced combustion systems and
heat recovery technologies, are crucial to enhance the overall efficiency of WTE plants.
This will maximize energy recovery and minimize resource consumption.
● Waste Characterization: Developing advanced methods for characterizing waste streams
will allow for optimized WTE processes, maximizing energy recovery and minimizing
waste disposal.

Policy and Regulatory Framework:

● Government Support: Governments should implement supportive policies and incentives

to promote the development and adoption of WTE technologies. This includes financial
support, tax breaks, and streamlined permitting processes.
● Environmental Standards: Stringent ecological regulations are essential to ensure that
WTE plants operate within acceptable emission limits, safeguarding public health and the
environment.
● Public Engagement: Public awareness campaigns are crucial to address concerns and
misconceptions about WTE technology. Transparent communication and education will
build public trust and support.

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 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

Economic Considerations:

● Financial Incentives: Financial incentives, such as feed-in tariffs and tax breaks, can
encourage investment in WTE projects, making them more economically viable.
● Risk Mitigation: Developing risk mitigation strategies is essential to address potential
financial risks associated with WTE projects, such as fluctuations in waste input and
energy prices.
● Long-Term Viability: Comprehensive life cycle cost analyses are necessary to assess the
long-term economic viability of WTE projects, ensuring sustainable financial returns.

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment:

● Environmental Responsibility: Thorough environmental impact assessments must be

conducted to identify potential risks and develop effective mitigation measures,
minimizing the ecological footprint of WTE projects.
● Community Engagement: It is crucial to engage with local communities to address
concerns and build support for WTE projects. This includes transparent communication,
open dialogue, and addressing potential impacts on local communities.
● Social Responsibility: Implementing social responsibility programs, such as job creation
and community development initiatives, will demonstrate the positive social impact of
WTE projects and build community support.

By addressing these recommendations, WTE technology can play a significant role in

sustainable waste management and energy production, contributing to a cleaner and more
sustainable future for all.

VI. REFERENCES

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Harvard Business School. (n.d.). Blog - Business & Environment - Harvard Business School.
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Artelia Group. (2024, August 22). The iconic Amager Bakke plant - Artelia Group.
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Berretta, D., & Berretta, D. (2024, October 20). The hazards in landfills and the promise of
Waste-to-Energy - ESWET - European Suppliers of Waste to Energy Technology. ESWET -

Leading Innovations, Transforming Lives, Building the Nation

 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

European Suppliers of Waste to Energy Technology -.

https://eswet.eu/the-hazards-in-landfills-and-the-promise-of-waste-to-energy/#:~:text=In%20cont
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Bruna Alves (2024, November 6), Global waste generation - statistics & facts from:
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BYJU’S (2024), Renewable Energy from: https://byjus.com/physics/renewable-energy/

Calibre Cleaning (2024, January 25), Protecting Our Planet: The Importance of a Clean
Environment from: https://www.calibrecleaning.com.au/the-importance-of-a-clean-environment/

Energy, T. (2024, September 9). Waste-to-Energy: Can trash produce (Clean) energy? Tara
Energy.
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C%20some%20states%20consider,methane%20and%20greenhouse%20gas%20emissions

Green Org (2021), How Recycling Reduces Landfill Waste and Pollution from:
https://green.org/2024/01/30/how-recycling-reduces-landfill-waste-and-pollution/

Jenks. (2024, February 22). Waste-to-Energy Technologies and Their Environmental Impact.
Green.org.
https://green.org/2024/01/30/waste-to-energy-technologies-and-their-environmental-impact/

Khan, I., Chowdhury, S., & Techato, K. (2022). Waste to Energy in Developing Countries—A
Rapid Review: Opportunities, Challenges, and Policies in Selected Countries of Sub-Saharan
Africa and South Asia towards Sustainability. Sustainability, 14(7), 3740.
https://doi.org/10.3390/su14073740

Magdy, & Magdy. (2024, October 30). Waste-to-Energy conversion methods. IEREK.
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enefits%2C%20WtE%20conversion,plants%20requires%20significant%20capital%20investmen
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Martins, J. (2024, May 13). How to Conduct a Feasibility Study: Templates and Examples
[2024] • Asana. Asana. https://asana.com/resources/feasibility-study

Michael Foreman (2022, August 23), Waste Management Goals and achieving the SDGs from:
https://dontwastegroup.com/waste-management-goals-sdgs/

Leading Innovations, Transforming Lives, Building the Nation

 Republic of the Philippines
BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY
The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Electrical Engineering Department

Nanda, M. A., Wijayanto, A. K., Imantho, H., Nelwan, L. O., Budiastra, I. W., & Seminar, K. B.
(2022). Factors Determining Suitable Landfill Sites for Energy Generation from Municipal Solid
Waste: A Case Study of Jabodetabek Area, Indonesia. The Scientific World JOURNAL, 2022,
1–16. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/9184786

Nubi, O., Murphy, R., & Morse, S. (2024). Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Waste to
Energy Systems in the Developing World: A review. Environments, 11(6), 123.
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Rezania, S., Oryani, B., Nasrollahi, V. R., Darajeh, N., Ghahroud, M. L., & Mehranzamir, K.
(2023). Review on Waste-to-Energy Approaches toward a Circular Economy in Developed and
Developing Countries. Processes, 11(9), 2566. https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11092566

RTS - Recycle Track Systems. (2023b, December 22). The Pros and Cons of Waste-to-Energy |
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n%20and,to%20disincentivize%20more%20sustainable%20waste

State-of-the-art waste-to-energy facility in Copenhagen - Ramboll Group. (n.d.).

https://www.ramboll.com/projects/energy/state-of-the-art-waste-to-energy-facility-in-copenhagen

Student Energy (n.d) Waste to Energy from:

https://studentenergy.org/conversion/waste-to-energy/

Tejvan Pettinger (2022, March 31), How to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels from
https://www.economicshelp.org/blog/168064/economics/how-to-reduce-our-dependence-on-fossi
l-fuels/

The potential of waste-to-energy in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. (n.d.). Jackson Lab.
https://jacksonlab.stanford.edu/publications/carbon-and-water-footprint-energy-resources/potenti
al-waste-energy-reducing-greenhouse#:~:text=The%20combustion%20of%20municipal%20soli
d,gas%20emissions%20in%20the%20United

Waste-to-energy (MSW) in depth - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). (n.d.).

https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/biomass/waste-to-energy-in-depth.php

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