Technological Innovations in Sustainable Waste-to-Energy for Economic Revolution

Abstract

“The Evolution of Waste-to-Energy Technologies” traces the development and transformation of methods aimed at converting various forms of waste into usable energy sources. Beginning with early methods such as incineration, which dates back centuries and primarily focused on reducing waste volume and managing sanitation, the evolution of waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies has been shaped by advancements in engineering, environmental science, and sustainability goals. Historically, incineration served as a fundamental technique to dispose of municipal solid waste (MSW) while producing heat and electricity. This approach, despite its efficiency in waste reduction, faced criticism for air emissions and environmental impacts, prompting a shift towards more advanced WTE methods. In the mid-20th century, technological innovations led to the development of mass burn incinerators, which increased combustion efficiency and reduced emissions through improved air pollution control systems.