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

Quetzalli Aguilar-Virgen () and Paul Taboada-González
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Quetzalli Aguilar-Virgen: Faculty of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Autonomous University of Baja California, Tijuana 22424, Mexico
Paul Taboada-González: Faculty of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Autonomous University of Baja California, Tijuana 22424, Mexico

Waste, 2025, vol. 3, issue 1, 1-16

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.

Keywords: anaerobic digester; gasifier; waste energy recovery; waste treatment (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q16 Q18 Q2 Q20 Q23 Q24 Q25 Q28 Q3 Q31 Q38 Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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