How can mechanical biological treatment reduce carbon dioxide emissions from waste?

Mechanical biological treatment (MBT) facilities reduce carbon dioxide emissions by integrating sorting processes with biological treatment methods, such as composting or anaerobic digestion.1

By processing biodegradable waste through these biological systems, MBT technology effectively manages organic matter that would otherwise contribute to greenhouse gas emissions in landfills. Additionally, these facilities can produce refuse-derived fuel, which serves as a substitute for traditional energy sources in cement kilns or power plants that adhere to strict incineration standards.1

Through the anaerobic digestion component specifically, organic solids are broken down by microorganisms, which can capture methane—a potent greenhouse gas—to be used as a renewable energy source for heating or electricity generation. This process not only reduces the volume of waste requiring disposal but also helps mitigate the environmental impact of waste management by diverting organic materials from uncontrolled decomposition.231