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T1 Waste to Energy: Considerations for Informed Decision-making - Summary for Policymakers
A1 United Nations Environment Programme, 
K1 waste treatment
K1 recycling
K1 waste management
K1 circular economy
K1 Health
K1 Waste management
YR 2019
FD 2019
LK https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/28388
UL https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/28388
NO 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.
DS UN Environment Document Repository
RD Sep 17, 2026