Municipal Solid Waste as a Renewable Energy Source: Advances in Thermochemical Conversion Technologies and Environmental Impacts

Sławomir Kasiński and Marcin Dębowski ()
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Sławomir Kasiński: Institute of Engineering and Environmental Protection, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Str. Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
Marcin Dębowski: Institute of Engineering and Environmental Protection, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Str. Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 18, 1-33

Abstract: This review examines the potential of municipal solid waste (MSW) as a renewable energy source, focusing on recent advances in thermochemical conversion technologies and their environmental impacts. The exponential growth of urban populations has led to a surge in MSW, necessitating sustainable waste management solutions. Traditional disposal methods, such as landfilling and incineration, have significant environmental drawbacks. However, advancements in waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies, including incineration, pyrolysis, and gasification, offer promising alternatives for energy recovery and resource utilization. This review explores the composition of MSW, its classification as a renewable resource, and the thermochemical conversion technologies that transform waste into energy. The environmental impacts of these technologies, particularly emissions and air quality concerns, are critically analyzed. The review highlights the evolving regulatory landscape and the implementation of advanced emission reduction systems. The findings underscore the importance of integrating innovative waste management strategies to promote a circular economy and achieve sustainable development goals.

Keywords: municipal solid waste (MSW); renewable energy; waste-to-energy; incineration; pyrolysis; gasification (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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