The Status of Waste-to-Energy in the U.S.

This paper provides an update on the status of waste-to-energy in the United States. It features a breakdown of operating plants by technology, the relative contribution each technology type makes in terms of managing municipal solid waste, and the role of waste-to-energy compared with other management options. The paper also provides a regional look at operating plants, some key insights at the state level, plus the type and amount of materials recovered on-site at waste-to-energy operations for subsequent recycling. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of combustion ash in various beneficial applications. In addition, the latest air pollution control trends relating to waste-to-energy operations are addressed. Also, waste-to-energy community recycling rates are examined and compared with national recycling statistics. Finally, a summary of States recognizing waste-to-energy as a renewable resource is provided. The paper demonstrates the ongoing vital role waste-to-energy plays in helping to manage waste in the U.S.