Garbage to Electricity
Garbage is no longer seen as dirty, filthy waste. It is now seen as an alternative fuel used for converting trash into heat and electricity. This alternative fuel is clean, reduces energy costs, carbon dioxide emissions and reliance on foreign oil.
While these gas-to-energy projects/plants are springing up everywhere in Europe, Denmark, China and numerous other countries, the US is just getting a good start. Currently, there are approximately 519 operational energy projects across the US. The EPA’s Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP) encourages development of landfill gas as an energy source. About 50% of the gas emitted by landfills is methane. Our local landfill installed an electric generation plant used for powering a large greenhouse company. They are also purchasing wind power electricity. These are perfect examples of private enterprise going green on their own initiative without government mandate.
If allowed, private industries and small businesses have always, and will continue, to find solutions for economic and energy needs. Methane is a valuable energy resource. Turning hazardous landfill gas into a marketable energy decreases landfill odors, improves the environment and generates revenue. This is a win-win for everybody.
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