Tolvik’s 2020 UK Energy from Waste Statistics state that the amount of residual waste processed in Energy from Waste (EfW) plants grew by 10.5% in 2020, despite the challenges faced by the COVID19 pandemic. This increase is positive in the drive to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill, though the environmental impact must be monitored and controlled if we are to meet current emissions targets.

As waste management companies increase the quantity of waste material they supply to EfW facilities, further responsibility is being placed on them to play their part in making Waste to Energy more environmentally friendly. One way of doing this is through undertaking regular independent sampling and analysis of their waste streams.

Residual waste is constantly changing based on the evolving habits of citizens, both economical and sociological. Different areas of the UK have contrasting recycling habits, whilst huge changes in living habits like those seen during the COVID19 pandemic can see increases in the levels and types of materials finding their way into our waste streams, such as plastics from disposable PPE. 

For EfWs, these constant changes impact both the performance of the plant and the environmental obligations that they must meet. Therefore, the chemical composition of the fuels used in the energy generation process must be controlled to protect investments and the environment.

Waste management companies can play their part in this process. In order to understand what is being used to fuel our EfW facilities – and more importantly, what is coming out – the composition of the materials used as fuel in EfWs should be assessed regularly.

Compositional analysis of waste can provide waste management companies with a detailed profile of the makeup of their waste stream, whilst a chemical analysis of the material can deliver a comprehensive understanding of the level of elements and potential contaminants within the material. 

It is important that these services are undertaken by an independent and accredited contractor, following UKAS accredited methods. This is to ensure that only the most accurate and reliable information is reported to offtakers, maintaining confidence and assurity between waste management companies and EfWs.

How can Alfred H Knight Help?

With strategically placed, UKAS accredited hubs across the UK, Alfred H Knight is able to provide accurate and reliable chemical and waste composition analysis services with a swift turnaround time.

We are experts in alternative fuels testing, having provided services to the solid fuels sector for over 25 years. Our analysis services provide our clients with clear and accurate information on the composition of their waste streams and help them to monitor their waste handling and management.

If you would like to speak to a member of our team regarding your waste management, complete this simple form and we will be in touch as soon as possible.