Energy Savings by Wastes Recycling PDF

Study Objectives

The overall aim of this study was to assess the energy conservation potential obtainable through the reuse of waste materials, and to identify areas for priority action,

The principal objectives of the study were:

- to compare energy consumption per unit of production for industries using waste product/secondary materials as a raw material with energy consumption using natural raw materials;

- to identify the extent of savings currently being realised and the scope for additional recovery, indicating those industries with most economic potential;

- to determine the value and quantity of the energy savings in terms of crude oil equivalent imports potentially realisable through the recovery of secondary materials from industrial and municipal waste;

- to identify the principal institutional, operational and technical constraints to further recovery;

- to suggest what community action would be necessary to overcome constraints and promote additional recovery, thereby leading to improved energy savings.

The original objective of the study was to assess the scope for additional energy savings resulting from further recycling which was financially attractive, compared to alternative disposal options.

However, the scope for additional secondary material recovery under strict financial criteria is very limited, On the basis of existing commercial technology and market conditions, the current level of material recycling in most industrial sectors can be considered close to the maximum which is financially viable, The secondary markets for most materials are well established and organised and can be expected, in broad terms, to maximise supply at a given price, In other words, the prices of primary materials would have to rise substantially on a permanent basis, relative to secondary materials, for significant additional recovery to take place,

we have therefore broadened our approach to consider what additional energy savings could be achieved through further technically feasible recycling of secondary materials. While most of the additional materials recovery potential identified could not be justified against commercial criteria, wider economic and social benefits would accrue. Such benefits include reduced energy consumption for a given level of economic output in the Community, lower energy and other raw material imports, raw material conservation, environmental benefits of reduced levels of waste disposal and, possibly, increased employment.

Author: R. Porter, T. Roberts