Organic waste energy recovery: The link between energy policy and integrated solid waste management

Abstract

The inadequate management of solid waste is a problem that negatively impacts quality of life and contributes to the increased emission of greenhouse gases (GHG). Adequate management has the potential to contribute to the generating of clean energy and the achieving of the climate commitments adopted by Peru. In this article, recommendations are presented for the promotion of the energy valorization of solid waste within Peru’s energy policy and waste management, based on the feasibility analysis of an anaerobic digestion plant in the district of Alto Selva Alegre, in the province and region of Arequipa. The principal recommendation is that it is necessary to strengthen the technical capacity of local governments in terms of waste recovery, and to establish a national energy transition plan that promotes the use of biogas.