Waste-to-energy technology towards energy and carbon neutrality : exploring different waste treatment scenarios in China

Abstract

Currently, China stands as one of the largest producers of municipal solid waste in the world, and its collection, transportation and disposal has become a relatively urgent issue due to the limitations of urban land resources. Waste-to-energy technology, which effectively recycles waste into energy, has become a waste disposal solution in many countries. At present, with the gradual increase in the amount of municipal solid waste generated, China is faced with more severe pressure on energy conservation and emission reduction. Analyze the carbon emissions from waste-to-energy processes is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of environmentally-friendly waste treatment and developing a municipal solid waste management system that aims to achieve energy and carbon neutrality. This thesis focuses on waste-to-energy technology as a strategic response to these challenges, offering an in-depth examination of the technological characteristics and carbon emission impacts of incineration, landfill, composting, and anaerobic digestion. Among these, composting results in the lowest carbon emissions, followed by incineration. However, the predominant method in China remains landfilling, which contributes to carbon emissions significantly more than composting and incineration. With the increasing recognition of the environmental effects of municipal solid waste and the growing use of environmentally friendly treatment methods, it is crucial to reassess and enhance the current waste management system. Particularly, the role of landfills, which are becoming increasingly saturated, underscores the urgent need for reforms to mitigate their detrimental environmental effects.