Commenting on its report released today, entitled Energy from Waste: A Good Practice Guide, the CIWM said that the UK currently recovers much less energy from its waste than neighbouring European countries.
 The CIWM report addresses some of the concerns around EfW |
While recognising the need to maximise recycling and minimisation activities, the Institution said: “We have to recognise the need for an increase in Energy from Waste technologies to manage the residual waste stream.”
The report, designed to provide a “scientifically based guide” to EfW for decision makers and waste management professionals, lays out the policy and legal framework for EfW. It also discusses planning issues as well as a range of technologies including “as received” waste combustion, fluidised-bed combustion, flue gas and residue treatment as well as Combined Heat and Power systems.
According to the report, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden already treat between 25 and 41% of municipal waste by EfW, while the UK rate is just 8%.
Commenting on the report, CIWM communications manager Dr Jane Beasley said: “EfW plays only a minor role in waste management in the UK however with pressure to move away from landfill we do anticipate an increase in the use of this option in the coming years.”
“In order to address some of the concerns surrounding EfW and challenge a number of the negative perceptions held, CIWM has used its position as an independent professional body to bring a team of specialists together and develop an objective, scientifically-based guide,” she added.
Environment minister added his endorsement to the CIWM EfW report, saying: “Energy from Waste has an important role to play in dealing with the residual municipal waste stream and I welcome the publication of this good practice guide as a valuable tool for waste professionals with regard to these options. Embracing both the established technologies and those new to municipal waste management, and drawing on good practice from the UK and overseas, I am sure that this guide will provide an important contribution to the advancement of the debate on waste and resource management.”
The report, Energy from Waste: A Good Practice Guide, is available priced 15 from the CIWM website.
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