LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT OF WASTE-TO-ENERGY: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND ECONOMIC VIABILITY ANALYSIS.

When it comes to WTE technologies, possibly the most important meta-overview is the life cycle assessment, primarily in relation to the environmental effects that occur in the course of their functioning. This paper systematically reviews and compares the environmental impacts and efficiency of several WTE processes – incineration, gasification, and anaerobic digestion. This paper, therefore, examines the complete chain of WTE, from waste collection and transportation to energy production and byproduct disposal, to conclude on ways and areas where WTE technologies can minimize greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to the circular economy. The economic evaluation examines the prospects of the involved technologies, focusing on the capital expenditure of the facility, operational costs, and the revenue likely to be generated from the recovered energy and materials. In this regard, the research outcomes emphasize the need for further WTE process improvements concerning their impacts on the environment and financial effectiveness. The paper also describes policy considerations and whether WTE should be considered a component of integrated solid waste management. This global cradle-to-grave LCA provides valuable information to various stakeholder groups, including policymakers, industry decision-makers, and environmental NGOs, to improve waste management systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]