Waste to Energy: Considerations for Informed Decision-making - Summary for Policymakers

This summary for policymakers outlines considerations for informed decision-making on thermal waste-to-energy within integrated solid waste management systems. It explains the technology, its energy recovery potential, and its role in reducing landfill use while highlighting associated emissions, hazardous residues, and infrastructure requirements. The document reviews global adoption, key drivers, and challenges, particularly in developing countries, including waste characteristics, financial constraints, legislation, environmental risks, and social impacts. It emphasises prioritising waste reduction, reuse, and recycling, supported by life-cycle assessment, stakeholder consultation, technical evaluation, and comprehensive legal and financial frameworks.