MSW Gasification: Understanding the Challenges

There has been a tremendous amount of discussion in recent years about alternative technologies for the thermal processing of municipal solid waste (MSW). These technologies try to differentiate themselves from combustion and claim environmental benefits. While these technologies may be technically feasible, and may have a place in the future processing of MSW, their processes and equipment need to be developed and scaled-up to define their economics, and they have a long way to go before being considered commercially proven and reliable. Covanta is actively evaluating emerging gasification technologies and is committed to identifying and developing the most promising processes.