Analysis of Waste-to-Energy (WTE) technologies and their application in Mexico

Mexico is a nation that faces considerable Urban Solid Waste (MSW) management problems, it generates on average more than forty-two million tons of waste. Similar to other developing countries, Mexico has not been able to establish efficient models that cope with the high generation rates and that take into account future increases due to the intensification of productive activities, but above all that guarantee a mitigation of the associated environmental impact. There is evidence of the successful application of different treatment systems in which not only the impact on the environment is reduced but also energy recovery is sought. Therefore, this document reviews the main characteristics of this type of system, particularly those that apply Waste-To-Energy technologies (Waste-To-Energy WTE). The foregoing sought to generate documented information on the current status of sustainable treatment systems that can be adapted in Mexico and countries with similar characteristics to establish management schemes aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and minimize environmental impact. Chapter derived from research project SIP20200392 “Economic valuation of urban solid waste for the generation of clean energy”.